The Acura RSX has made its place in the world of sport compacts, building a cult following because it handles well, has engines that love to rev, and is easy to modify. Getting the right fit for your wheels is important, whether you’re a die-hard RSX enthusiast or a new owner who wants to make their ride better. If you do it well, you’ll improve performance, safety, and that all-important curb appeal. If you mess it up, you could get headaches, such as when you rub fenders or have trouble with the way the car handles. This guide goes over the wheel fitting for all RSX models from 2002 to 2006. It covers all you need to know about bolt patterns, offsets, rim sizes, hub bores, and tire dimensions. We’ll compare the two generations, give you some tables to look at, and talk about what suits best if you want to replace those factory rollers with something that really stands out. Let’s make sure your RSX is seated just properly.
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Acura RSX DC5 [2002–2004] Wheel Fitment
The first-generation RSX (2002–2004) was the first modern front-wheel-drive sports coupe. This period’s wheels had a 5×114.3 bolt pattern, a 64.1 mm center bore, and M12 x 1.5 lug nuts. The factory torque for the lug nuts is 108 Nm, so make sure to bring your torque wrench when you change wheels. The original setup comes with 16-inch, 17-inch, or even 18-inch wheels from the factory, along with low-profile tires that provide you with the best balance of traction and comfort. The factory offset keeps the wheels tucked away in the fenders, so they don’t brush against anything. It fits well and works for both everyday drivers and track warriors. A lot of popular Hondas and Acuras have the same fitment as this generation’s wheels; therefore, it’s easy to find aftermarket wheels. Here are the manufacturer specifications for the wheels and tires of the 2002–2004 RSX:
Acura RSX DC5 [2002–2004] Wheel & Tire Specs
| Year | Center Bore | Bolt Pattern | Lug Nut Thread | Torque (Nm) | OEM Tire Size | OEM Rim Size | OEM Offset Range (mm) | Tire Pressure (Front / Rear, bar) |
| 2002–2004 | 64.1 mm | 5×114.3 (5×4.5) | M12 x 1.5 | 108 | 205/55R16 89V | 6.5Jx16 ET45 | 43 – 47 | 2.1 / 2.1 |
| 2002–2004 | 64.1 mm | 5×114.3 (5×4.5) | M12 x 1.5 | 108 | 205/50R17 88V | 6.5Jx17 ET45 | Not specified | 2.1 / 2.1 |
| 2002–2004 | 64.1 mm | 5×114.3 (5×4.5) | M12 x 1.5 | 108 | 205/45R18 87V | 7Jx18 ET45 | Not specified | 2.3 / 2.3 |
Wheel Bolt Pattern & Center Bore
The 2002–2004 RSX has a 5×114.3 bolt pattern, which is very prevalent among Honda and Acura fans. That means there are a lot of different wheels to choose from. There aren’t any strange or hard-to-find patterns here. The center bore is a clean 64.1 mm, which makes sure that the hub fits perfectly. This helps keep vibrations down while you turn bends or merely drive to work. Use M12 x 1.5 thread pitch for your lugs, and always tighten them to 108 Nm to make sure they clamp evenly and safely. When you buy aftermarket wheels, make sure the hub bore fits snugly, or install hub-centric rings to get rid of any play.
OEM Wheel & Tire Sizes
Acura provided RSX buyers a lot of great choices right from the factory. You could choose between 16-inch, 17-inch, or even 18-inch wheels, all of which came with sport-oriented rubber. The 16-inch layout had 205/55R16s, and the 17s had 205/50R17s. If you get the factory 18s, they come with 205/45R18s, which were very aggressive for the early 2000s! Each arrangement has its offset, which is usually approximately ET45. This keeps everything tucked in and working. If you’re running 16s or 17s, keep the tire pressure at 2.1 bar in the front and back. If you’re running 18s, up it to 2.3 bar. This makes sure that you have the best combination of grip and comfort for everyday driving.
Aftermarket Wheel Options
Want to go aftermarket? You’re in luck. Because the RSX fits so many different things, there are no limits on styles, sizes, or finishes. Just make sure to stay within the offset range (usually ET43–ET47 for optimal results) and match the 64.1 mm center bore or use the right rings. Most owners prefer 17s or 18s for a sportier look and better handling, but be careful: if your offset is too low or your rim is too wide, it can rub, especially if your car is lowered. Lightweight flow-formed or forged wheels are a popular modification that makes your car respond better without making the ride worse. Choose a style that fits your personality, such as classic mesh, modern split spokes, or even a JDM design from the past.
Acura RSX DC5 Facelift [2005–2006] Wheel Fitment
The 2005–2006 RSX makeover preserved the winning formula but added a new look and a little more attitude. Most of the fitting standards stayed the same, so if you’re moving from an older model or just want to keep things OEM+, you won’t be surprised. The bolt pattern is still 5×114.3, the hub bore is 64.1 mm, and the lug nuts are M12 x 1.5. The factory torque is still 108 Nm. The largest change throughout the years was the new look, but the way the wheels and tires fit stayed the same. These models came with 16s, 17s, or 18s, all of which had offsets that kept the wheels flush and out of the way. Here is your table for quick reference:
Acura RSX DC5 Facelift [2005–2006] Wheel & Tire Specs
| Year | Center Bore | Bolt Pattern | Lug Nut Thread | Torque | OEM Tire Size | OEM Rim Size | Offset | Tire Pressure |
| 2005–2006 | 64.1 mm | 5×114.3 (5×4.5) | M12 x 1.5 | 108 | 205/55R16 89V | 6.5Jx16 ET45 | 43 – 47 | 2.1 / 2.1 |
| 2005–2006 | 64.1 mm | 5×114.3 (5×4.5) | M12 x 1.5 | 108 | 205/50R17 88V | 6.5Jx17 ET45 | 43 – 47 | 2.1 / 2.1 |
| 2005–2006 | 64.1 mm | 5×114.3 (5×4.5) | M12 x 1.5 | 108 | 205/45R18 87V | 7Jx18 ET45 | 43 – 47 | 2.3 / 2.3 |
Wheel Bolt Pattern & Center Bore
The facelifted RSX still has the same 5×114.3 bolt pattern and 64.1 mm center bore. The M12 x 1.5 lug thread is the same, and the torque requirements stay the same. This uniformity makes it easy to shop for wheels, especially if you’re looking at used wheels from different RSX models or Honda/Acura’s other vehicles. Always check that your new wheels are hub-centric, or use rings to make sure they fit well and don’t vibrate. Staying hub-centric also means your bearings will last longer and you will have a smoother ride on the highway.
OEM Wheel & Tire Sizes
The new RSX versions, like the old ones, came with 16-, 17-, or 18-inch wheels. The tires stayed sporty: the regular sizes were 205/55R16, 205/50R17, and 205/45R18, each with a factory offset of ET45 or close to it. This offset makes sure the wheels stay in the appropriate place—flush but not sticking out—giving the RSX that classic, balanced look. The tire pressures are the same as they were on the older versions. For 16s and 17s, keep them at 2.1 bar, and for 18s, keep them at 2.3 bar. Want to keep it stock but make it appear new? Change to a different OEM size or attempt a different finish on the stock wheel.
Aftermarket Wheel Options
The facelifted RSX has the same aftermarket options as the older DC5. You have a lot of options, such as lightweight track configurations, deep-dish display wheels, or wheels that are just a little bit better than the ones that come with the car. If you have coilovers, stick to offsets between ET43 and ET47 to avoid poke or rubbing. For a good fit that doesn’t screw up your fenders, the wheel width should be between 7 and 8 inches. Remember that the center bore is 64.1 mm, or get some good hub rings. Some popular finishes are traditional silver, aggressive gunmetal, and even bronze for a race-inspired look. Choose something that fits your body type and way of life.
Comparing the RSX Generations
There aren’t any great surprises when you put the 2002–2004 and 2005–2006 RSX next to each other. Acura understood they had a good thing and kept it. The 5×114.3 bolt pattern, 64.1 mm center bore, and M12 x 1.5 lugs are the same for both models. Offsets are the same, so you may easily switch wheels between model years. The most important thing to remember is that some aftermarket or special edition wheels may have different specs, so make sure to verify before you buy. In general, the wheel fitment options for both early and facelift DC5s are very similar. That makes it easy to buy, sell, or trade wheels in the RSX community.
How to Choose the Right Wheels for Your Acura RSX
When choosing wheels, you should think about more than just the specs. You should also think about what you want your RSX to look like and how you want it to drive. Think about what you do every day. Are you carving canyons, racing on the track, or just trying to get people to look at you at car meets? To have smooth rides, make sure your replacement wheels are hub-centric and stay within the factory offset ranges (ET43–ET47). If you’re going wider, make sure your suspension and fender clearance are set up right. No one loves to rub on significant dips. Don’t forget about choosing the low-profile tires. The appropriate size can make or break your posture and handling. For safety, always match your lug nuts and tighten them the right way.
Top Wheel Brands & Recommended Specs for RSX
Enkei, Volk Racing, Work, and RAYS are some of the most popular brands for upgrades. You get both form and function with these wheels because they are lightweight and sturdy and have the proper bolt pattern and offset for the RSX. Most builds go best with sizes between 17×7 and 18×8 and an offset of ET45. Gunmetal, bronze, and gloss black are always in trend, but you can never go wrong with classic silver or even white for a throwback look. No matter what you choose, ensure it is safe for usage on the street or track.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I run wheels from a Civic or Accord on my RSX?
A: If the bolt pattern and hub bore match (which they do for many Honda/Acura models), you’re good! Just double-check offsets to avoid rubbing or poking out.
Q: Will 18-inch wheels hurt my ride quality?
A: 18s look awesome and fill the fenders, but they do make the ride stiffer compared to 16s or 17s. If you’re slammed or live where roads are rough, consider sticking with 17s for a better compromise.
Conclusion
When you upgrade or keep your RSX’s wheels, it’s not simply a cosmetic choice. It’s also about performance, safety, and getting the style you desire. If you go with the confirmed parameters (5×114.3 bolt pattern, 64.1 mm hub bore, and factory offsets), you’ll have a lot of choices. The RSX platform makes it easy to get your fitting just right, whether you like OEM+ or crazy bespoke creations. Have fun with the process and make your RSX stand out wherever you go.
