Nissan Bluebird Wheel Sizes: A Complete Guide by Generation (1979–2001)

Nissan Bluebird - a legendary sedan, produced from 1957 to 2001 in 13 generations. During this time, the model has undergone a lot of changes, including wheel parameters: from modest 13-inch wheels on earlier versions up to 16-inch on the latest modifications. Choosing the wrong wheel size can lead to handling problems, suspension wear, or even refusal to undergo technical inspection due to non-compliance with the vehicle title. In this guide, we will look at all the nuances: from standard sizes to acceptable alternatives for tuning.

Feature Bluebird — its versatility: the model was supplied to different markets (Japan, Europe, Australia) under different indices (U11, U12, U13, U14, U15, T12, 910, 810), and even within the same generation, wheel sizes could vary depending on the configuration. For example, sports versions SSS or Turbo often equipped with wider discs. To avoid mistakes, we structured the data by generation and market.

Standard wheel sizes by generation

Below is a table with basic wheel parameters for the most common versions Nissan Bluebird. Please note: the data is valid for serial models without modifications. If your car has been tuned (for example, installing a sports suspension), the parameters may differ.

Generation (year)	Market	Drive size (inches)	Disc width (J)	Departure (ET)	Tire size	PCD (bolt pattern)
U11 (1983–1986)	Japan/Europe	13–14	5.0–5.5J	35–40	175/70 R13, 185/60 R14	4×114.3
U12 (1986–1989)	Japan	14	5.5J	38	185/65 R14	4×114.3
U13 (1989–1992)	Europe (T12)	14–15	6.0J	35–42	185/60 R14, 195/55 R15	4×114.3
U14 (1992–1996)	Japan/Australia	14–15	6.0–6.5J	35–45	185/65 R14, 205/55 R15	4×114.3
U15 (1996–2001)	Japan (Wingroad)	15–16	6.5J	40	195/60 R15, 205/50 R16	4×114.3

⚠️ Attention: For models Bluebird, supplied to Australia under the name Nissan Pintara, wheels with a bolt pattern could be used 5×114.3 (for example, on versions with engine SR20DE). Always check the parameters with the data on the sticker in the doorway or in the PTS!

If your car belongs to early generations (810, 910), please note that bolt patterns were often used there 4×100, which limits the choice of modern disks. In such cases, adapter rings will be required, but their use not recommended for everyday use due to the risk of imbalance.

How to determine the wheel size for your Bluebird

Even if you know the generation of your car, it is better to double-check the parameters. Here are 3 reliable ways:

• 📄 Documents: Look in the PTS (the "Wheels" field) or in the instruction manual. For Japanese models, look for a sticker on the driver's door pillar - it shows the recommended tire sizes and pressures.
• 🔍 Visual inspection: The following parameters are often stamped on the inside of the disc: diameter, width, offset (ET) and PCD. For example, marking 6Jx15 ET40 4×114.3 means 6 inches wide, 15 diameter, 40mm offset and 4x114.3 bolt pattern.
• 📏 Measurements: If you do not have access to documents, measure:
  • Wheel diameter (tire fit size).
  • Bolt Hole Center Distance (PCD) - Use a caliper or template for this.
  • Overhang (ET) is the distance from the mating plane to the center of the disk.

⚠️ Attention: On some versions Bluebird U14 with engine RB20DE discs with a central hole (DIA) were installed 66.1 mm, whereas for most models it is suitable 60.1 mm. Using discs with the wrong DIA will cause the steering wheel to wobble at high speeds.

Acceptable alternative wheel sizes

Many owners Bluebird want to install larger wheels to improve appearance or handling. However, the dimensions can only be increased within reasonable limits so as not to disrupt the operation of the suspension and speedometer. Below are proven combinations for popular generations:

• 🔄 U11 (1983–1986): Instead of standard 175/70 R13 can be installed 185/60 R14 with disks 6Jx14 ET38. This will improve grip, but slightly lower the ground clearance (~10 mm).
• 🔄 U13/U14 (1989–1996): On version with engine SR20DE often put 205/50 R16 with disks 7Jx16 ET40. Important: this will require wheel alignment adjustment.
• 🔄 U15 (1996–2001): Maximum allowed size - 215/45 R17 with disks 7.5Jx17 ET42, but only if the suspension is not lowered.

When choosing custom sizes, consider:

1. Ground clearance: Increasing the rim diameter by 1 inch reduces ground clearance by ~25 mm (unless the tire profile compensates for this).
2. Speedometer error: When installing wheels with an outer diameter larger than the standard by 3%, the speedometer will reduce the speed by the same amount.
3. Arch Compatibility: On versions with wide arches (e.g. Bluebird SSS) you can install wider rims, whereas on basic versions they will touch the fender liners.

What happens if you install rims that are too wide?

If the recommended rim width is exceeded by more than 1.5 inches (for example, 8J instead of 6.5J), the following problems arise:

1. Accelerated wear of wheel bearings due to increased load.

2. The risk of the tire hitting the suspension elements when the steering wheel is turned completely.

3. Uneven tread wear (especially on the front axle).

4. Increased sensitivity to side winds at high speeds.

Bolt Pattern and Center Hole: Why It's Important

Two critical parameters that are often ignored when choosing drives:

1. PCD (bolt pattern): For most Bluebird this is 4×114.3, but on early models (810, 910) occurs 4×100. An error here will lead to the inability to tighten the bolts properly - the disk will “walk”.
2. DIA (center hole): Standard for Bluebird — 60.1 mm, but on some versions (for example, with an engine RB) — 66.1 mm. If the hole is larger, the disc will not fit tightly on the hub, which will cause runout.

⚠️ Attention: Never use PCD discs 4×100 on model with bolt pattern 4×114.3 (and vice versa), even if visually the bolts are screwed in! This will lead to uneven tightening and the risk of the wheel coming off while driving. Adaptation will require eccentric bolts, but this is a temporary solution.

If you buy drives with the wrong DIA, use centering rings made of aluminum or plastic. They compensate for the difference and prevent runout. For example, for a disk with DIA 73.1 mm to the hub 60.1 mm you will need a thick ring 6.5 mm.

1. Does the PCD (bolt pattern) match your model?

2. Does the center hole fit (DIA) or are there adapter rings?

3. Is the offset (ET) as recommended (±5 mm tolerance is acceptable)?

4. Are there any dents or cracks on the disc (especially the rim)?

5. Is the diameter suitable for your tires?

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Tire selection: what to consider for Bluebird

In addition to size, when selecting tires for Nissan Bluebird pay attention to:

• 🌡️ Speed Index: Sufficient for most versions H (up to 210 km/h), but for sports modifications (SSS, Turbo) recommended V (up to 240 km/h).
• ⚖️ Load Index: The minimum value is 82–86 (depending on the vehicle weight). For example, for U14 with engine SR20DE index will do 88 (load 560 kg per wheel).
• 🌧️ Seasonality: For winter use, choose tires marked M+S or 3PMSF (snowflake symbol). On Bluebird with rear wheel drive (RWD) soft rubber is especially important for better grip.

On versions with all-wheel drive (4WD, for example, Bluebird U14 AWD) all four tires must be the same in wear and model. A difference in tread of more than 2–3 mm between the axles will lead to increased load on the transmission.

⚠️ Attention: On vehicles with ABS (anti-lock braking system), the use of tires with heavily worn tread (less than 3 mm) may cause false operation of the system when braking. This is especially true for U15 with electronic stabilization systems.

Common mistakes when changing wheels

Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes that lead to serious consequences. Here are the most common:

1. Ignoring departure (ET): Installing discs with an offset that is very different from the standard one changes the load on the wheel bearings. For example, on U14 from ET 35 You cannot install discs with ET 20 - this will reduce the suspension life by 2-3 times.
2. PCD Mismatch: As mentioned earlier, even minimal mismatch in bolt pattern (e.g. 4×114.3 instead of 4×100) will lead to uneven tightening and the risk of the wheels coming loose.
3. Savings on balancing: After installing new wheels or tires necessarily perform balancing. On Bluebird with high speed engines (SR16VE, RB20DE) the imbalance will manifest itself as vibration already at a speed of 80–90 km/h.
4. Incorrect tightening torque: Wheel bolts on Bluebird must be tightened firmly 80–100 Nm (depending on generation). Tightening will deform the disc, and insufficient tightening will lead to unscrewing.

Another common mistake is installing tires with a directional tread pattern. in the wrong direction. On Bluebird with rear-wheel drive this is especially critical, since the rear wheels bear the main load during acceleration. Always check the label Rotation on the sidewall of the tire.

Wheel tuning: what is allowed and what is not

Many owners Bluebird strive to improve the appearance of the car with the help of wheels. However, not all modifications are safe. Here are the dos and don'ts:

• ✅ Allowed:
  • Increasing the diameter of the rims by 1–2 inches (for example, from 14 to 15 or 16), provided that tires with the appropriate profile are selected.
  • Installing wider rims (0.5–1 inch) on sports versions (SSS, GT).
  • Use of cast or forged wheels instead of stamped ones (subject to all parameters).
• ❌ Prohibited:
  • Installation of discs with an offset differing by more than ±5 mm from the standard.
  • Using discs with a PCD that does not match the hub (even with adapters).
  • Reducing the diameter of the discs (for example, from 15 to 14) on versions with large brake mechanisms (RB20DET, SR20DET).
  • Extremely low tire profile (for example, 205/30 R17 on U14), as this increases the risk of damage to the discs on uneven surfaces.

For lovers of low-profile tires: on Bluebird U15 minimum permissible tire profile - 45 (For example, 205/45 R16). Lower profile (40 or less) will lead to frequent tire breakdowns on Russian roads.

Can I install wheels from other Nissan models?

Theoretically yes, but with reservations:

- Discs from Nissan Primera P10/P11 (1990–1996) suitable for Bluebird U13/U14 (PCD 4×114.3, DIA 60.1).

- Discs from Nissan Silvia S13/S14 can be installed on Bluebird U14, but only if their width does not exceed 7.5J (otherwise the arches will need to be widened).

- Discs from Nissan Skyline R32/R33 will not fit due to a different bolt pattern (5×114.3).

Always check compatibility in all respects (PCD, ET, DIA)!

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about wheels for Nissan Bluebird

Is it possible to install 17" wheels on Bluebird U14?

Yes, but with reservations. Standard size for U14 — 15 inches, but on the version with engines SR20DE/DET often installed 17×7J ET40 with tires 205/45 R17. Important:

• Check the gaps in the arches (with the steering wheel turned fully and under load).
• Correct wheel alignment after installation.
• Use low profile tires only on smooth roads.

On basic versions with engine GA16DE 17-inch wheels may not fit due to smaller brake mechanisms.

What tire pressure should be on Bluebird U15?

Recommended pressure for Bluebird U15 (including Wingroad):

• Front wheels: 2.2–2.4 bar (depending on load).
• Rear wheels: 2.0–2.2 bar.

For winter tires, the pressure is increased by 0.2 bar. Always check the sticker on the door pillar - it shows the exact values ​​​​for your configuration.

What should I do if I can’t find wheels with ET35 offset?

An overhang deviation of ±5 mm is permissible. For example, instead of ET35 you can install disks with ET30 or ET40. However:

• More positive offset (e.g. ET45 instead of ET35) will narrow the track, which will worsen stability.
• More negative offset (e.g. ET25) will widen the track and increase the load on the wheel bearings.

If the difference exceeds 5 mm, you will need to adjust the camber or install spacers (but this is a temporary solution).

Will 195/50 R15 tires fit instead of 185/65 R14?

No, this is an unequal replacement. Although the outer diameter of the wheels will be similar, the width 195 instead of 185 may lead to:

• The tire touching the wheel arch liners when the steering wheel is turned completely.
• Increased load on the steering (especially on versions without power assistance).
• Incorrect speedometer readings (error up to 5%).

If you want to increase the width, choose sizes that maintain the outer diameter. For example, instead of 185/65 R14 can be supplied 195/60 R14 (diameter difference ~1%).

How often do you need to rotate tires on a Bluebird?

For even wear, it is recommended:

• On front-wheel drive versions: every 10,000–15,000 km (according to the “cross” pattern).
• On rear wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD): every 8,000–10,000 km (according to the “direct” scheme).

On Bluebird with engines RB20DE or SR20DET Rear tires wear out faster due to high torque, so they should be rotated more often.