When it comes to ensuring a safe and stable connection between your vehicle’s wheels and its hub, the role of wheel fasteners—nuts and bolts—cannot be overstated. These components are essential for keeping your wheels securely attached and play a significant role in vehicle safety, performance, and handling. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of wheel fasteners, their importance, installation tips, and maintenance practices.

What Are Wheel Fasteners?

Wheel fasteners are the components that secure a wheel to the vehicle's hub. They include lug nuts and bolts, depending on the type of wheel system used. Lug nuts are typically used in most passenger cars, while lug bolts are more common in certain European vehicles and some specialized applications.

Types of Wheel Fasteners

Lug nuts

Conical Seat Lug Nuts (60 degree) 

These are the most commonly used lug nuts. They feature a conical or tapered shape at the base, which allows them to center the wheel on the hub as they are tightened. They are also called 60 degree conical seats, cone seats or acorn lug nuts.

Ball Seat Lug Nuts (Radius)

Ball seat lug nuts have a rounded base instead of a tapered one, allowing them to fit into rounded lug holes found in certain wheels.

Flat Seat Lug Nuts

Flat seat lug nuts have a flat base that sits flush against the wheel’s lug hole. This type of lug nut is typically used with wheels that have a flat surface designed to accommodate them.

Lug nuts - Aftermarket types

Spline Drive Lug Nuts

Spline drive lug nuts feature a unique design with a series of grooves or splines along their length. This design allows them to be tightened or loosened using a specific tool that fits into the grooves. These lug nuts are popular in aftermarket wheels.

Locking Lug Nuts

Locking lug nuts are designed with a unique pattern or shape that requires a special key or tool for removal. This feature provides added security against theft.