How Do I Properly Torque My Wheel Lug Nuts or Bolts?
(Lea en español)So you finally got your wheel and tire package and are ready to mount them up and hit the streets. While you're eager to get those first miles on your brand new wheels and tires, taking a few moments to confirm the installation is done correctly can ensure trouble-free operation. Torquing lug nuts and bolts correctly is a vital part of making sure your tire and wheel assembly rides smoothly, wears evenly and performs as expected.
Finding the proper torque for lug nuts and lug bolts is the first step and can usually be found in the vehicles owner's manual. Utilizing a torque wrench is a must so you can be sure you're applying the correct torque for wheel nuts and bolts. While a torque wrench is not necessary for emergency tire changes, eventually you'll want to loosen and re-torque the wheel's nuts or bolts with a torque wrench when you get the opportunity.
Ensure the stud or bolt threads are clean and dry with no oil, grease or any other kind of lubrication applied to the wheel's hardware.
We recommend you start threading the hardware on by hand so as to not cross thread or strip the threads. Once secured hand tight, use the torque wrench set to the proper torque as indicated from a lug nut torque chart or the vehicle’s owner's manual, for the final tightening sequence based on the number of studs or bolts as shown below.
Tightening and Loosening Patterns
Note: It is important NOT to lubricate hardware threads or seats. The friction torque is measured against should come from the hardware seats. Lubricating hardware threads and seats alters the friction generated at the lug seat, which could result in inaccurate torque application.
New wheels should be re-torqued after the first 50 to 100 driving miles.
Under- or over-tightening wheel-attaching hardware can be damaging and dangerous.
*If you cannot find the vehicle manufacturer's recommended torque spec, you can use the following as a guide.
| Hardware Bolt or Stud Size | Typical Torque Range in Ft/Lbs | Minimum Number of Turns of Hardware Engagement |
|---|---|---|
| 12 x 1.5 mm | 70 - 80 | 6.5 |
| 12 x 1.25 mm | 70 - 80 | 8 |
| 14 x 1.5 mm | 85 - 90 | 7.5 |
| 14 x 1.25 mm | 85 - 90 | 9 |
| 7/16 in. | 70 - 80 | 9 |
| 1/2 in. | 75 - 85 | 8 |
| 9/16 in. | 135 - 145 | 8 |