Porsche Center Lock Wheel Recall

Porsche has been working on some models of theRecall on Center Lock Wheel Boltsannounced the new project.

The affected models include some of the 2024 911 (992) and 718 (982) GT models, with a total of 1,851 units worldwide.

The cause of the recall is that certain lots of center locking bolts were not manufactured to specifications and could break if tightened to improper torque, which in the worst case could cause the wheel to loosen or come off while driving.

The bolts in question were reportedly manufactured by a Bavarian supplier called Hirschvogel. The company is a manufacturer that also supplies fasteners for engines, but it appears to be a little-known company to the general public.

History and Expanded Adoption of Center Lock Wheels

The center-lock wheel is a technology that has been used since the dawn of motorsports, dating back to the 908 racing car of 1968 in the case of Porsche.

In racing, they are employed to enable quick wheel changes at pit stops, eliminating the need to align bolt holes and handle multiple bolts.
Typically, racing cars use removable pins to prevent the fasteners from coming loose. On the other hand, production cars use a self-locking mechanism (simply bolted on) to avoid the risk of someone taking it away as a souvenir.

Center-lock wheels used to be available only on limited models such as the Carrera GT and 997 2RS, but are now optional on the 997 GT3 and Turbo. Later, from the 991 GT3, they became standard equipment,Currently, the use of this technology has been expanded to all GT series models (Speedster, GT3, GT4, and Spyder RS) as well as the GTS and Turbo models of the 911 and Panamera.

Problems with center lock wheels

The problem with center-locking wheels is not their dependence on a single fixed point, but rather their cumbersome handling.
Of course, safety is not considered a major concern, as it has been proven in many vehicles.

However, while center-lock wheels may be attractive to owners seeking a special feel, they are inconvenient for users who actually drive on the circuit.
For example, problems arise when rotating tires between sessions or replacing worn tires.

While a normal 5-hole wheel can be worked on by one person by borrowing a socket and torque wrench from a fellow worker in the pit next door, a center-lock wheel requires special tools and is a two-person job, according to the company.

The procedure for replacing the center lock wheel is approximately as follows

1. lift up the wheel and remove the cap
2. put back the lock pin.
3. 600 Nm torque release using a special socket and a 3/4" breaker bar
4. in this case, someone must have a firm hold on the brake pedal
Remove the wheel and install a new wheel.
6. lubricate 4 parts of the center lock fastener in 6 places
7. using a special 3/4" drive torque wrench for 600Nm
Tighten to 600Nm, loosen 1/6 turn, and tighten again to 600Nm ± approx. 30Nm.
Check that the lock pin is properly backed out and install the center cap.

On the other hand, a conventional 5-bolt wheel can be easily replaced by one person using standard tools and a basic torque wrench.

I, too, dislike this hassle, and I am one who actively does not want to choose a center lock.
If they get a flat tire on a public road, they cannot get road service or repair it themselves, and it will always have to be towed away. Also, when changing tires, there are only a limited number of tire shops that can handle center locks, making it extremely uneconomical and inconvenient.
Also, if you want to design the wheels differently, your options are very limited.

Therefore, theI went out of my way to buy a 991 GTS with the 5-hole wheel model.about.

Pros and cons of adopting center lock wheels

Center-lock wheels are cumbersome for the person doing the work, cause anxiety for the owner when entrusting them to an unfamiliar mechanic, and also cost more in special tools. Although they have the advantage of achieving a balanced inertia moment, it is doubtful that non-professional drivers will realize the benefit.

Center-lock wheels are for those who want to "look like they're going to the track," which means that 5-hole bolts are more convenient for those who actually go to the track.

howeverMany customers want center-lock wheels because "they come from racing cars.It is also true.
Porsche has expanded its use of center-lock wheels because it fits its brand image of technology transfer from motorsports and because of market demand. Another point to be mentioned is that it also helps to differentiate the product lineup.

It's not that the center lock itself is bad, but it should be chosen based on how you use your Porsche.
On the GTS and Turbo S, you can choose between center-lock or 5-hole when ordering. Those who value practicality may choose 5-hole wheels, while those who value fashion may choose center-lock wheels.