When it comes to customizing or replacing wheels on your 2017 Honda Civic, one of the first details you need to know is the correct bolt pattern. Understanding the bolt pattern is vital because it directly affects the safety, performance, and compatibility of the wheels you select. Whether you’re looking to upgrade to stylish aftermarket wheels or simply replace worn-out tires, knowing the proper bolt pattern ensures that the new wheels will fit securely and function properly on your vehicle.
This comprehensive guide will not only explain the bolt pattern for the 2017 Honda Civic in detail but also explore its significance, the factors you need to consider when selecting new wheels, and tips for upgrading your wheels to get the most out of your vehicle. By the end of this article, you’ll have a thorough understanding of bolt pattern for 2017 honda civic and how to make the best choice for your wheels.
What Is a Bolt Pattern?
The bolt pattern of a wheel refers to the number of bolts on a wheel and the diameter of the circle formed by the centers of these bolts. It’s essential because the bolt pattern ensures that your wheels fit securely onto your car’s hub, allowing the vehicle to function safely. Without the correct bolt pattern, the wheels won’t align properly with the vehicle’s mounting points, which can cause several issues, including poor handling, misalignment, and safety concerns.
The bolt pattern is typically described with two numbers. The first number indicates the number of bolt holes on the wheel, and the second number refers to the distance between the centers of two opposite bolt holes, measured in millimeters. For instance, a 5×114.3 bolt pattern means that the wheel has five bolt holes, and the distance between the centers of two opposite bolt holes is 114.3 millimeters.
The Bolt Pattern for 2017 Honda Civic
The 2017 Honda Civic has a bolt pattern of 5×114.3, which means that the wheel uses five bolt holes arranged in a circle with a 114.3 millimeter diameter. This is one of the most common bolt patterns for modern vehicles, and it is shared by many other vehicles, including other Honda models like the Accord, CR-V, and Odyssey. It is important to note that while this is the standard bolt pattern for most trims of the 2017 Honda Civic, some variations may exist depending on specific wheel configurations or modifications. Always check your car’s specifications to ensure accuracy.
Why Does the Bolt Pattern Matter for Your 2017 Honda Civic?
Understanding your vehicle’s bolt pattern is crucial for several reasons. The main concern is safety. If the wrong bolt pattern is used, the wheels may not fit properly, which can cause them to detach while driving. This can lead to dangerous situations. An improper fitment can also cause the wheels to misalign, which can affect your car’s performance, handling, and suspension. Over time, misalignment and uneven wear may even damage other components of your vehicle.
Another key point is that the bolt pattern affects tire selection. Different bolt patterns can limit the variety of tires that are compatible with your vehicle, which is why selecting the right bolt pattern is vital for maintaining performance. Additionally, choosing the wrong wheels could lead to issues with alignment, tire wear, and even more costly repairs if problems arise.
How to Measure the Bolt Pattern for Your 2017 Honda Civic
While it is easy to find the standard specifications for your vehicle, you may want to measure the bolt pattern yourself to confirm the fit. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to measuring the bolt pattern of your 2017 Honda Civic:
- Count the Number of Bolt Holes: Start by counting the number of bolt holes on the wheel. The 2017 Honda Civic uses a 5-lug wheel, so there will be five bolt holes.
- Measure the Bolt Circle Diameter: To measure the bolt circle diameter, you need to measure the distance from the center of one bolt hole to the center of the bolt hole directly across from it. This measurement will give you the diameter of the bolt circle. In the case of the 2017 Honda Civic, the bolt circle diameter should be 114.3 millimeters.
- Double Check: Once you’ve made the measurements, compare them to the standard specifications for your vehicle. If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to cross-reference the measurements with your owner’s manual or online resources to make sure you’ve got the correct bolt pattern.
Choosing the Right Wheels for Your 2017 Honda Civic
While the bolt pattern is essential for fitting new wheels, there are several other factors to keep in mind when selecting the perfect set of wheels for your 2017 Honda Civic. Some of these factors include wheel size, material, offset, and tire compatibility.
1. Wheel Size
Choosing the correct wheel size is one of the most important steps in upgrading or replacing your wheels. The size of the wheel impacts not only the appearance of your vehicle but also its performance. The wheel size is typically expressed in inches and refers to both the diameter and width of the wheel. For example, 17×7 or 18×8 refers to a 17-inch diameter wheel with a 7-inch width. For the 2017 Honda Civic, the factory-installed wheels range from 15 inches to 18 inches in diameter, depending on the trim level. It’s important to select a wheel size that matches your car’s specifications and supports your driving needs.
2. Wheel Offset
The offset of a wheel refers to the distance between the centerline of the wheel and the mounting surface, which is where the wheel attaches to the vehicle’s hub. Wheel offset is crucial for maintaining proper alignment and preventing damage to your suspension. The offset can be positive, negative, or zero.
- A positive offset means the mounting surface is toward the front of the wheel (closer to the street).
- A negative offset means the mounting surface is toward the back of the wheel (closer to the car).
- A zero offset means the mounting surface is directly in line with the centerline of the wheel.
For the 2017 Honda Civic, the ideal offset range typically falls between +35mm and +45mm, depending on the wheel size and the specific trim.
3. Backspacing
Backspacing is another key factor in wheel selection. It refers to the distance from the back edge of the wheel to the mounting surface. The correct backspacing ensures that the wheel sits properly within the wheel well. Incorrect backspacing can cause the wheel to rub against the suspension or fender, which could damage the car or negatively impact the handling.
4. Load Rating
Every wheel comes with a load rating, which indicates the maximum weight it can support. When selecting new wheels, it’s crucial to ensure the load rating meets or exceeds the weight of your vehicle. Exceeding the wheel’s load rating could result in failure, which could be dangerous for you and your passengers.
5. Wheel Material
The material of the wheel affects its strength, weight, and performance. Wheels are typically made from steel, aluminum alloy, or forged materials. Steel wheels are durable and affordable but heavier and less visually appealing. Aluminum alloy wheels are lighter, stronger, and more aesthetically pleasing but may be more expensive. Forged wheels, made from a single piece of metal, are incredibly strong and lightweight but are usually the most expensive option.
6. Tire Compatibility
When choosing new wheels, it’s essential to consider tire compatibility. New wheels must be able to accommodate the correct tire size for your 2017 Honda Civic. Be sure to check the recommended tire size for your car and ensure that your new wheels are compatible with these tires. Additionally, ensure the tires are properly balanced for optimal performance and safety.
Upgrading the Wheels on Your 2017 Honda Civic
Upgrading your wheels is a great way to enhance the look and performance of your 2017 Honda Civic. However, it’s important to make informed decisions to ensure that the new wheels are compatible with your vehicle’s specifications and driving requirements. Whether you’re looking for performance wheels, off-road options, or simply a new aesthetic for your ride, there are plenty of choices available for the 5×114.3 bolt pattern.
Make sure to carefully consider the wheel size, offset, material, and other factors that affect performance. Additionally, remember that high-quality wheels made from durable materials will provide better long-term value and improved performance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Upgrading Your Wheels
- Neglecting the Bolt Pattern: One of the most common mistakes when upgrading wheels is ignoring the bolt pattern. This can lead to unsafe and incompatible wheels, leading to performance issues or even damage.
- Choosing the Wrong Size: Another mistake is selecting wheels that are too large or too small. This can lead to poor handling, vibrations, or even cause damage to the suspension.
- Incorrect Offset or Backspacing: Wheel offset and backspacing must be considered to ensure proper fitment. Choosing the wrong offset can affect your car’s alignment and handling.
- Overlooking Tire Compatibility: New wheels should be compatible with your car’s tire specifications. Ensure that the tire size is appropriate for the wheels you select.
Conclusion
Understanding the bolt pattern for your 2017 Honda Civic is one of the first steps in selecting the right wheels for your vehicle. With the 5×114.3 bolt pattern, you have plenty of options for aftermarket wheels that are compatible with your Civic. However, it’s crucial to also consider other factors such as wheel size, offset, material, and tire compatibility to ensure that the wheels perform well and look great. By carefully choosing your wheels and following the correct specifications, you can enhance the performance, handling, and appearance of your 2017 Honda Civic for years to come.