Wheel Bolts and Lugs Torquing

Tightening wheel bolts after changing tires is a safety-related necessity that contributes to the safety of everyone on the road.

Can the wheel fall off easily?
A wheel doesn't just fall off easy, it becomes noticeable beforehand by loud knocking noises.

Why and How wheel nuts/ bolts need to be tightened:
If you are planning on installing your wheels on your vehicle, it is important to know the manufacturer recommended torque specifications. This depends on the vehicle’s year, make and model. This information can usually be found in the vehicle's owner’s manual. Careless installation of wheels on a vehicle can lead to a serious accident. Proper installation is essential to operating your vehicle safely.

Having the right torque requires using the proper tools and techniques to prevent any damage to your wheels. These damages include over-tightening, stripping the fastener threads, and stretching the studs. Using the proper tools will also reduce the possibility of warping the brake drums, rotors, or hubs. Under- or over-tightening the hardware on your wheels can be damaging and dangerous.

Torque specifications are for dry and clean lug nuts or bolts only. The fastener threads should not have any oil, dirt, grit, or corrosion on it. It is important to examine all parts, including wheels and studs and mounting faces of hub and wheels. If any corrosion is found use a wire brush to remove it and be sure to replace any parts that are damaged. Use only the specified sizes and types of studs and nuts. It is important to avoid the use of any lubrication during the torquing process. Adding lubrication to the hardware threads and seats results in inaccurate torque readings and/or over-torquing of the hardware.

Once you have the right tools, use the appropriate crisscross sequence (patterns shown below) for the number of the vehicle's wheel-attaching hardware positions until all have reached their specified torque value. Failure to tighten the nuts in this crisscross pattern will result in misalignment of the wheel.

For more information or if you have any questions or concerns, please talk to one of our Service Advisors (204) 987-2461 or email service@frankmotors.ca