2020 Audi A6 Wheel Interchange
2020 Audi A6 Wheel Fitment Guide - Clear, Safe, and Easy
1. Misconception
If a wheel is 5x112, it should fit a 2020 Audi A6 without issues.
2. Why it seems true
Many Audi, VW, and Mercedes models share 5x112. Listings highlight bolt pattern first, so it feels like the key spec. Sellers often show “fits Audi A6” as a group, and the pictures look right. That creates a mental model where bolt pattern equals compatibility.
3. What is true
Bolt pattern is only one checkpoint. Think of fitment as a system: hub bore, offset, width, diameter, brake clearance, hardware, and tire size all matter. Your A6 needs wheels that match the hub, clear the brakes and fenders, and keep geometry within reason.
Quick recap of the known OEM values for the 2020 Audi A6 on wheelinterchange.com. These come from factory configurations, and they can vary by trim or package:
| Spec | Known OEM value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bolt pattern | 5x112 | Required for stud-hole alignment |
| Center bore | 66.6 mm | Hub-centric to Audi C8 A6 |
| Thread size | M14 x 1.5 | Match wheel bolt threads exactly |
| One factory wheel size | 17 x 7.5, ET36, backspacing 5.17 in | Example OEM setup - trims vary |
| One factory tire size | 245/45R19 | From a different OEM setup - also trim dependent |
Notice the 17-inch wheel and the 19-inch tire don’t pair together. That’s a sign there are multiple OEM packages for this year. Different trims and options can change wheel diameter, width, and offset. The safe move is to confirm your exact build using the driver door-jamb label, the owner’s manual, or the OEM parts catalog. Then use the on-page calculator to compare changes.
Using the calculator without guesswork
- Set “Installed on” to 2020 Audi A6.
- Set “Wheels from” to your donor vehicle or the aftermarket wheel size you’re considering.
- Adjust “Custom wheel size” for diameter, width, and offset. Watch inner and outer clearance changes.
- If you change rim diameter, adjust “Custom tire size” so the overall tire diameter stays sensible.
- Use the visual comparison to see poke, inner clearance to strut, and speedometer impact.
4. Implications
Here’s the practical mental model. Offset moves the wheel in and out. Lower ET pushes the wheel outward and can rub fenders. Higher ET pulls it inward and can rub the strut or liners. Width changes both inner and outer positions by half the width change each side, then offset shifts the whole assembly.
With the known 17 x 7.5 ET36 example, the backspacing is about 5.17 inches. If you move to a wider wheel or different offset, the calculator will show how much inner clearance you lose or gain. A rule of thumb: keep overall tire diameter close to stock to avoid speedo error and keep ride and ABS behavior predictable. Since multiple OEM tire diameters exist across trims, confirm your baseline, then keep changes modest.
Hardware matters, too. The A6 hub bore is 66.6 mm. If your wheel’s center bore is larger, hub-centric rings can stabilize it. If it’s smaller, it will not seat. The thread size is M14 x 1.5. Wheel bolts need the correct seat type for the wheel design - many OEM Audi wheels use a ball seat, while some aftermarket wheels use a cone seat. Match the seat type to the wheel brand’s spec to maintain clamping force and avoid damage.
Brake clearance is another quiet variable. Diameter and spoke shape affect caliper clearance. If the donor wheel came from a smaller-brake model, it may not clear your calipers. When in doubt, a physical test fit or a template from the wheel maker helps.
5. Quick tests
- Hub-centric check: The wheel should sit snugly on the 66.6 mm hub. If it rocks before bolts are tightened, use 66.6 hub-centric rings sized to your wheel’s larger bore.
- Bolt and seat match: Verify M14 x 1.5 threading and the correct seat type for your wheel. Do a hand-thread test. Resistance or cross-thread feel means stop and re-check.
- Brake clearance: With the wheel mounted finger-tight, spin it and look for rub points near calipers and knuckles. Check at least 2-3 mm visual clearance as a working minimum.
- Lock-to-lock and compression: With the car on the ground, turn full left and right. Drive slowly over a speed bump and into a driveway at an angle. Listen for rub on liners or fender lips.
- Speedometer sanity check: After changing tire size, compare GPS speed to cluster at 30-60 mph. The calculator shows expected variation - use it to dial in a closer match.
- Load rating and torque: Confirm the wheel and tire load ratings meet or exceed your door-jamb GAWR. Tighten bolts using a torque wrench to the value in your owner’s manual.
How to confirm your exact OEM setup
- Door-jamb label: Note the tire size listed for your trim.
- Owner’s manual: Look for wheel size options and torque specs.
- OEM parts catalog or dealer: Provide your VIN for precise wheel width, diameter, and offset.
- Use the calculator: Start with the confirmed OEM size as “Installed on,” then compare your new setup.
Tools and small parts that help
- Torque wrench 30-150 ft-lb - for consistent clamp force.
- 66.6 hub-centric rings - if your wheel bore is larger than 66.6 mm.
- M14x1.5 wheel bolts - ball seat - only if your wheel uses a ball seat.
- M14 wheel hanger guide pin - makes mounting easier and protects threads.
Bottom line
5x112 gets you in the door, but offset, width, hub bore, brake clearance, and tire size keep the car safe and happy. The 2020 Audi A6 can ship with different OEM wheel and tire packages, so it’s normal to see mixed data. Confirm your baseline, then use the on-page calculator to model changes before you buy. Think of it as a quick fitment rehearsal that turns uncertainty into a predictable, clean install.
Source: wheelinterchange.com - fitment calculator and the known OEM values listed above. If a spec is missing for your exact trim, verify by VIN with OEM documentation and plug it into the calculator for a precise comparison.
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