Porsche’s Center Lock Wheel Recall

Porsche has announced a recall for center lock wheel bolts on certain models.

The recall affects some 2024 model year 911 (992) and 718 (982) GT models, totaling 1,851 units worldwide.

The cause of the recall is that center lock bolts from a specific batch were not manufactured to specification, and if tightened with improper torque, they may break. In the worst case, this could cause the wheel to loosen or detach while driving.

The problematic bolts were made by Hirschvogel, a supplier based in Bavaria. This company also supplies engine fasteners but is relatively unknown to the general public.

History and Growing Adoption of Center Lock Wheels

Center lock wheels have been used since the early days of motorsports, and for Porsche, their use dates back to the 1968 908 racing car.

They are adopted in racing to enable quick wheel changes during pit stops, eliminating the need to align multiple bolt holes or handle several bolts.

Typically, racing cars use removable pins to prevent fasteners from loosening. In contrast, production cars use a self-locking mechanism (simply bolted) to avoid the risk of someone taking the pins as souvenirs.

Center lock wheels were once limited to special models like the Carrera GT and 997 2RS, but later became optional on the 997 GT3 and Turbo. From the 991 GT3 onward, they became standard equipment, and today, they are used across the entire GT series (Speedster, GT3, GT4, Spyder RS) as well as on 911 and Panamera GTS and Turbo models.

Issues with Center Lock Wheels

The problem with center lock wheels isn’t the reliance on a single fixing point, but rather the complexity of handling them.

Of course, safety has been proven on many vehicles, so there is no major concern.

However, while center lock wheels may appeal to owners seeking a special feel, they can be inconvenient for users who actually drive on circuits.

For example, problems arise when rotating tires between sessions or replacing worn tires.

With regular 5-lug wheels, you can borrow a socket or torque wrench from a neighboring pit and work alone, but center lock wheels require special tools and two people to perform the task.

The general procedure for changing a center lock wheel is roughly as follows:

1. Lift the wheel and remove the cap
2. Return the lock pin
3. Use a special socket and a 3/4-inch breaker bar to release the 600Nm torque
4. Someone must firmly press the brake pedal during this step
5. Remove the wheel and install the new one
6. Apply grease to six points on the four parts of the center lock fastener
7. Use a special 3/4-inch drive torque wrench rated for 600Nm
8. Tighten to 600Nm, loosen by 1/6 turn, then tighten again to 600Nm ± about 30Nm
9. Confirm the lock pin is correctly returned and reinstall the center cap

In contrast, conventional 5-bolt wheels can be easily changed by one person using standard tools and a basic torque wrench.

I personally dislike this hassle and tend to avoid center lock wheels.

If you get a flat on a public road, you can’t fix it yourself or rely on roadside assistance easily, so you must always have the car towed. Also, only a limited number of tire shops can handle center lock wheels, making them very inconvenient and costly.

Additionally, if you want to change to a different wheel design, your options are extremely limited.

For these reasons, I deliberately chose the 5-lug wheel version when buying my 991 GTS.

Should You Choose Center Lock Wheels?

Center lock wheels are cumbersome for mechanics unfamiliar with them, cause anxiety for owners when leaving their cars in others’ hands, and require costly special tools. While they offer the advantage of a well-balanced moment of inertia, it’s questionable whether non-professional drivers truly benefit.

Center lock wheels are for those who want to “look like they’re going to the circuit,” while actual circuit users find 5-lug bolts more practical.

However, it’s also true that many customers want center lock wheels simply because they come from racing cars.

Porsche’s brand image aligns with technology transfer from motorsports, and market demand has driven the expansion of center lock wheel adoption. It also helps differentiate product lineups.

Center lock wheels themselves aren’t bad; it depends on how you intend to use your Porsche.

For models like the GTS or Turbo S, you can choose between center lock or 5-lug wheels when ordering. If you prioritize practicality, go with 5-lug wheels; if you value style, choose center lock.