What is a tire socket?

A tire socket, often called a lug nut socket, is a specialized tool designed for installing and removing lug nuts that secure a car’s wheels. Engineered for strength, these sockets typically have a hexagonal or spline shape to match the design of the lug nuts. They are made of durable steel to handle high torque applications. Tire sockets can be used with tools such as ratchets, torque wrenches, or impact wrenches, making them an essential part of a car maintenance toolkit for tasks like changing tires.

How do I get spline lug nuts off?

To remove spline lug nuts, you'll need a spline key specifically designed to match the splines on your lug nuts. If you don't have the original key, try to purchase a replacement from the manufacturer of the lug nuts for the best fit. While aftermarket keys from other brands might work, slight differences in spline patterns can cause issues. It's also a good idea to keep a spare key in a safe and accessible place to avoid being caught unprepared during emergencies like a flat tire.

What is a flip socket?

A flip socket is a specialized tool featuring two hex sizes in one socket, designed for efficiency in tasks like removing lug nuts or other fasteners. It works seamlessly with impact wrenches, often used in automotive repairs such as tire changes or brake maintenance. The "flip" mechanism allows for quick switching between sizes, enhancing convenience and accessibility. Its compact design provides twice the utility compared to standard sockets, making it a go-to for professionals and DIYers alike.

How do I remove spike lug nuts?

To remove spike lug nuts from your vehicle, you’ll need a spike key designed specifically for your lug nuts. This key is specially shaped to fit over the extended spike, unlike standard hex or spline keys, which don’t accommodate the unique design. Be sure to match the spline count or hex size precisely to your lug nuts to avoid damage or slipping. Using a key from the same brand as your lug nuts is recommended to ensure a perfect fit. If you’re unsure about compatibility, consult the manufacturer or the seller of your lug nuts for guidance or speak with the Guru team .

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The Lug Nut Guru

PCD Precision Gauge – Accurate, Easy Bolt Pattern Measurement

$15.50

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Accurately Measure Any Bolt Pattern – Quickly and Easily!

The Lug Nut Guru's PCD Gauge is the perfect tool for anyone looking to measure wheel bolt patterns with confidence and precision. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast, gearhead, or a professional mechanic, this PCD gauge makes it simple to identify bolt patterns for most 4, 5, 6, and 8-lug wheels.

Compatible with a Wide Range of Bolt Patterns
Covers both inch and metric dimensions for nearly all common wheel types:

4-Lug: 4x98, 4x100, 4x108, 4x110, 4x120, 4x130, 4x140, 4x4.5"
5-Lug: 5x100, 5x108, 5x112, 5x120, 5x130, 5x135, 5x150, 5x4.5", 5x4.75", 5x5", 5x5.5"
6-Lug: 6x135, 6x4.5", 6x5.0", 6x5.5"
8-Lug: 8x170, 8x6.5"

Simple and User-Friendly

Just insert one point into any hole, slide the adjustable point to the nearest hole, and read the nearest number next to the arrow – it’s that easy!
Works perfectly for measuring wheels or can be flipped to measure studs on your vehicle.

Clear and Easy-to-Read Measurements
Quickly identify your bolt pattern in both inch and metric formats, ensuring precision every time.

Durable and Reliable
Made from high-quality ABS hard plastic for long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.

At Lug Nut Guru, we pride ourselves on delivering reliable, easy-to-use tools that make your life easier. This gauge is designed to save you time, hassle, and guesswork, making sure your wheel and stud measurements are always spot on.

Don’t leave bolt pattern measurements to chance. Equip yourself with the right tool and get the job done right – the first time!

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FAQ

How do I measure lug nut patterns?

To measure a lug nut pattern (bolt pattern), start by counting the number of lug nuts on the wheel. Then, measure the distance from the center of one lug nut to the center of the one directly opposite. This measurement, in millimeters or inches, represents the diameter of the bolt circle. For odd-numbered patterns (e.g., five-lug wheels), measure from the center of one lug nut to the outer edge of the one across from it. Using a bolt pattern gauge can simplify this process for precise results.

What is a bolt pattern on wheels?

The bolt pattern of a wheel refers to the number of lug holes and the spacing between them. It is typically written as two numbers: the first indicates the number of lugs (or bolts), and the second represents the diameter of the circle they form, measured in millimeters. For example, a 5x100 bolt pattern means the wheel has five lug holes spaced 100 millimeters apart. Understanding your vehicle’s bolt pattern is crucial to ensure proper fitment and safety when installing new wheels. Using a bolt pattern gauge is a simple way to measure it accurately.

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PCD Precision Gauge – Accurate, Easy Bolt Pattern Measurement