The term describes vehicles engineered with a specific configuration for wheel attachment. This configuration features five equally spaced bolts arranged on a circle with a diameter of 100 millimeters. It is a critical specification when replacing or upgrading wheels, as using an incompatible bolt pattern can lead to unsafe driving conditions and potential damage to the vehicle. Many models, particularly those from manufacturers like Subaru and Volkswagen during certain production years, utilize this wheel mounting standard.
Adherence to a standardized wheel bolt pattern simplifies wheel selection and ensures proper fitment. This standardization offers several benefits, including a wider range of aftermarket wheel options and interchangeability between different models using the same specification. Historically, this bolt pattern became prevalent as manufacturers sought to optimize wheel strength and weight while maintaining ease of assembly. Its adoption reflects a balance between performance, cost-effectiveness, and compatibility within the automotive industry.