Owners Nissan Cefiro (especially models A31, A32 And A33) are often faced with the need to select wheels or install fog lights (FTL). An error in drilling parameters can lead to vibrations, uneven tire wear, or even damage to the hub. In this article we will look at exact bolt pattern parameters, permissible departure deviations (ET), central hole diameter (DIA), as well as the nuances of drilling a bumper for PTF - taking into account the characteristics of different generations Cefiro.

We will pay special attention unique parameters for restyled versions of the A32 (1994–1998), where factory drilling may differ from earlier models. You will also find step-by-step instructions for drilling PTFs, taking into account standard errors, and a compatibility table for discs from other models Nissan and answers to frequently asked questions about adapting non-original wheels.

Nissan Cefiro bolt pattern: table of parameters by generation

The main parameter that determines the compatibility of a disk with a hub is bolt pattern (or PCD, from English *Pitch Circle Diameter*). For Nissan Cefiro It is the same for all generations, but there are nuances with the offset and the central hole. Below is a summary table with official manufacturer data:

Generation Years of manufacture Bolt pattern (PCD) Number of holes Departure (ET) Central hole (DIA) Mounting thread
Cefiro A31 1988–1994 5×114.3 5 35–45 mm 66.1 mm M12×1.25
Cefiro A32 (dorestyle) 1994–1996 5×114.3 5 35–42 mm 66.1 mm M12×1.25
Cefiro A32 (restyle) 1996–1998 5×114.3 5 38–45 mm 66.1 mm M12×1.25
Cefiro A33 1998–2003 5×114.3 5 35–45 mm 66.1 mm M12×1.25

Important: departure (ET) may vary depending on the width of the rim. For example, for disks 7J let's say departure ET42, and for 8J - already ET38. Exceeding the permissible deviation (±5 mm) will lead to increased load on the wheel bearings.

To check compatibility, use the formula:

Новый вылет = (Ширина нового диска – Ширина штатного диска) / 2 + Старый вылет
⚠️ Attention: On restyled Cefiro A32 (1996–1998) with engine VQ25DE hubs with a reinforced flange were installed. When using discs with an offset ET<38 contact with the caliper is possible!

Drilling PTF on Nissan Cefiro: step by step

Installing fog lights on Cefiro requires precise marking of the bumper. An error of 2–3 mm can lead to misalignment of the headlight or damage to the plastic. Below are universal instructions for all generations except A33 (the PTF mounts are different there).

You will need:

  • 🔧 Drill with a set of drills (from Ø4 mm to Ø25 mm)
  • 📏 Ruler or caliper
  • 🖌️ Marker for marking
  • 🔨 Edge file
  • 🛠️ Sealant for plastic (for example, 3M Plastic & Paint)

Drilling steps:

  1. Remove the bumper (on A31/A32 just unscrew 4 bolts from the bottom and 2 from the top).
  2. Apply markings for PTF mountings:
    • Hole center distance: 180 mm (for headlights Ø70 mm).
    • Distance from the lower edge of the bumper: 50 mm.
    • Side edge offset: 120 mm (to the center of the first hole).
  • Drill the holes in 2 stages: first Ø4 mm (for centering), then expand to Ø22 mm.
  • File the edges and apply sealant.

    • Remove the bumper and clean the drilling area|Check the symmetry of the markings with a ruler|Secure the bumper to a flat surface (to avoid chipping)|Use drills with a centering tip|Apply sealant until completely dry (at least 2 hours)

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    For Cefiro A33 other parameters:

    • Distance between headlights: 200 mm.
    • Bottom edge offset: 60 mm.
    • Hole diameter: Ø25 mm (under mounts Hella Micro DE).
    ⚠️ Attention: On models with xenon headlights (optional for A32) PTF drilling can be blocked by the ignition unit. Before work, check the location of the equipment under the hood!

    Hella Micro DE|Osram LEDriving FOG|Bosch Universal|Others|Not installed yet-->

    Wheel compatibility with other Nissan models

    Discs from other models Nissan can be adapted to Cefiro, if the bolt pattern matches 5×114.3 and central hole DIA 66.1 mm. Below is a compatibility table indicating the necessary modifications:

    Donor model Compatible with Cefiro Improvements Notes
    Nissan Maxima (J30/J31) 100% Not required Identical hubs
    Nissan Teana (J31) 90% Grooving the central hole to 66.1 mm Departure ET40 fits without adjustment
    Nissan Skyline (R32/R33) 80% Installation of spacer rings (DIA 66.1→73.1 mm) Balancing required
    Nissan 350Z 70% Grooving + offset adjustment (for example ET35–45) Disk width no more 8.5J

    For discs with DIA 73.1 mm (for example, from Infiniti G35) will be required centering rings thick 3.5 mm. They can be made on a lathe or bought ready-made (article: NIS-66.1-73.1).

    💡

    Before purchasing discs from Skyline or 350Z check the gap between the caliper and the inside of the disc - on Cefiro A32 Rear drum brakes may require offset disc ET45+.

    Common mistakes when drilling and how to avoid them

    Even experienced professionals make mistakes when working with Cefiro. Here are the most common ones and ways to prevent them:

    1. PCD Mismatch:

      When using discs with a bolt pattern 5×112 (for example, from Audi) the owners are trying to “bore” the holes. This leads to wheel runout and the risk of the disc coming off at speed.

      Solution: Only use discs with PCD 5×114.3 or adapters with eccentric bolts (but this reduces reliability).

    2. Ignoring crash:

      Installing discs with offset ET20 (for example, from Nissan Silvia) leads to accelerated wear of wheel bearings and “steering” of the car on uneven surfaces.

      Solution: Maximum deviation from standard departure - ±5 mm.

    3. Incorrect drilling of PTF:

      If you don't take into account bumper curvature, the headlights will shine in different directions. On Cefiro A31 the bumper has a radius R400 mm, which requires adjustment of the drilling angle.

      Solution: Use a plywood template or 3D printing for precise markings.

    What happens if you install wheels with DIA 73.1 mm without rings?

    The disc will not be centered on the hub, which will lead to runout at speeds above 100 km/h. Even with the bolts tightened, there will be up to 3.5 mm of play, which will accelerate wear on the tires and wheel bearings. In critical cases, the wheel may come off during a sudden maneuver.

    Another common problem is corrosion of fastening bolts after drilling the PTF. To avoid rust:

    • 🔩 Use bolts from stainless steel (labeling A2-70).
    • 🧴Apply copper grease onto the thread before tightening.
    • 🔧 Tighten the bolts with torque 80–100 Nm (overtightening leads to breakage of the threads in the plastic).

    How to check the bolt pattern yourself

    If you bought Cefiro with non-original wheels and are not sure of the parameters, the bolt pattern can be measured without special tools. You will need a ruler and a calculator.

    Algorithm for 5-bolt fastening:

    1. Measure the distance between the centers of two adjacent holes (for example, 70 mm).
    2. Multiply the result by 1.051 (for 5 bolts): 
      PCD = 70 мм × 1.051 ≈ 73.57 мм

      Round to the nearest standard value - in this case 74 mm, but for Cefiro this doesn't fit. Correct PCD must be 114.3 mm.

    To check the center hole (DIA) use caliper or a suitable mandrel. The diameter should be 66.1 mm with permission ±0.3 mm.

    💡

    If you get a value when measuring PCD 112–113 mm, the disk definitely does not fit - even the minimum deviation in 1–2 mm will make it impossible to fully tighten the bolts.

    Adaptation of non-original discs: what you need to know

    Many owners Cefiro install disks from Toyota, Honda or Mazda, but this is fraught with problems. For example, disks from Toyota Crown (bolt pattern) 5×114.3) have DIA 60.1 mm, which requires boring or the use of thick centering rings (3 mm).

    Acceptable adaptation options:

    • 🔄 Discs from Mitsubishi Galant (1992–1998): same PCD And DIA, but crash ET46 - a spacer will be required 1–2 mm.
    • 🔄 Discs from Honda Legend (1990–1995): DIA 64.1 mm - need a ring 1 mm.
    • ❌ Discs from Subaru Legacy: despite PCD 5×114.3, DIA 56.1 mm makes them incompatible without serious modification.

    When using spacers, remember:

    • Spacer thickness reduces overhang (for example, spacer 10 mm + disk ET40 = actual ET30).
    • Spacers are thicker 15 mm require extended bolts (e.g. M12×1.25×35mm).
    ⚠️ Attention: On Cefiro A33 with the system VLSD (limited differential) use thicker spacers 10 mm may lead to overheating of the hub due to load changes!

    FAQ: Frequently asked questions about drilling Nissan Cefiro

    Is it possible to install 5x112 disks on Cefiro using adapters?

    Technically yes, but it is highly discouraged. Adapters create additional load on the hub, and misalignment PCD on 2.3 mm leads to uneven tightening of bolts. An alternative is turning discs under 5×114.3 (cost ~3000 rubles for 4 discs).

    What is the maximum reach that can be installed on the Cefiro A32?

    For A32 with engine RB20DE maximum reach - ET45 (with disk width up to 8J). On versions with VQ25DE (restyle) acceptable ET48, but the clearance with the caliper needs to be checked. Exceeding these values leads to friction between the disc and the suspension when the vehicle is fully loaded.

    Which PTFs are suitable without modifications?

    Only original PTFs are suitable without drilling Nissan (article 26530-4M000) or analogues from Hella Micro DE (diameter 70 mm). For models with bumper from Cefiro A33 headlights from Nissan Maxima J30 (mounting is identical).

    What should I do if, after drilling the PTF, the headlights shine upward?

    The reason is the wrong installation angle. On Cefiro A31/A32 required:

    1. Loosen the headlight mounts.
    2. Adjust the angle of inclination with the screws on the back side (the optimal angle is 1.2° down).
    3. Tighten the fasteners to torque 4–6 Nm.

    If adjustment does not help, check parallelism of the bumper to the ground — perhaps its angle was broken during drilling.

    Is it possible to install 17" wheels on the Cefiro A31?

    Yes, but with reservations:

    • Maximum disc width - 7.5J.
    • The offset must be in the range ET35–40.
    • Recommended tires: 215/45 R17 (check the clearance with the arch when turning the steering wheel fully!).

    On A31 with suspension Multi-Link disks 17" may touch the springs when fully loaded - check on a lift is required.