Lug Nuts

Do your original lug nuts not sit correctly against the seat in your new wheels? Lug nuts come with different threads, seat shapes and lengths, so you can find a set that suits aftermarket wheels, a track day car or a project where colour and style also count.

Thread and seat must match

The thread is stated as diameter and pitch, e.g. M12x1.25, M12x1.5, M14x1.5 or the imperial size 1/2x20, and it must match your car's wheel studs exactly. Just as important is the seat – the surface the nut tightens against in the wheel. A conical seat against a wheel with a ball seat gives too little contact area, and the nut can work loose. Some models, e.g. SSR MK-I, come with a matching washer. If your wheels are fitted with bolts that screw directly into the hub, look under lug bolts instead.

How to choose lug nuts

• Length and shank: wheels with deep bolt holes typically require a nut with an extended shank, such as those from ICON Alloys and Belak.
• Thread engagement: the nut must cover enough thread, which depends on the length of the wheel stud and any spacers.
• Material: e.g. forged steel from Skunk2 and BLOX Racing or titanium from Belak, which typically weighs less.
• Key and wheel hole: narrow holes may require a nut with a small outer diameter and a matching socket.

Sets are available with e.g. 16, 20 or 24 pieces, and some models are sold individually. In this category you will also find brands such as McGard, Project Kics, Wheel Mate, Race Star, Raceline and Advan.

Fitting and inspection

Tighten the nuts in a star pattern with a torque wrench to the car manufacturer's recommended torque, and typically re-torque after 50-100 km. An impact wrench can overtighten and damage the thread. If you want to protect your wheels against theft, one nut per wheel can be replaced with locking wheel nuts.

Frequently asked questions

Can I reuse the original lug nuts on new wheels?

Only if the seat in the new wheels has the same shape as in the old ones. Many aftermarket wheels have a conical seat, while some original wheels have a ball or flat seat. Check the wheel's specification before fitting.

What is the difference between open and closed lug nuts?

Closed nuts cover the end of the wheel stud and protect the thread from dirt. Open nuts let the stud pass through, which can be necessary with long wheel studs or spacers. The choice depends on the stud length.

Do lug nuts need to be approved for roadworthiness inspection?

At inspection, it is assessed whether the wheel is correctly and safely fitted. Whether a specific nut is permitted on your car depends on the product and the car, so check the documentation for the specific part number.