How much should car lock nuts be torqued to

## Car Lock Nut Torque Specifications

Car lock nuts, also known as lug nuts, are essential components that secure your wheels to your vehicle. Ensuring they are properly torqued is crucial for maintaining safety and preventing potential issues. Improperly torqued lock nuts can lead to loose wheels, vibrations, and even accidents.

To properly torque car lock nuts, refer to the vehicle’s manufacturer specifications, typically found in the owner’s manual or on the vehicle’s door jamb. The recommended torque value varies between vehicle makes, models, and wheel types.

General Guidelines:

For most passenger vehicles with steel wheels, the torque range is between 90-110 ft-lbs.
For vehicles with alloy wheels, the torque range is typically between 75-90 ft-lbs.
High-performance vehicles or vehicles with aftermarket wheels may require different torque specifications.

## Tools Required:

Torque wrench
Socket wrench
Lock nut key (if applicable)

## How to Torque Car Lock Nuts:

### 1. Prepare the Vehicle:

Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
Use wheel chocks to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
Gather the necessary tools.

### 2. Remove the Wheel Cover (if applicable):

Some vehicles have wheel covers over the lock nuts. Use a plastic pry tool to gently remove the cover.

### 3. Insert the Lock Nut Key (if applicable):

Some lock nuts require a specific key to loosen them. If your vehicle has locking lug nuts, insert the key into the lock nut and turn it counterclockwise to loosen it.

### 4. Loosen the Lock Nuts:

Using the socket wrench, carefully loosen the lock nuts by turning them counterclockwise. Do not remove them completely at this stage.

### 5. Attach the Torque Wrench:

Select the appropriate torque setting on the torque wrench.
Attach the socket to the torque wrench.

### 6. Tighten the Lock Nuts:

Position the socket over the lock nut.
Gradually tighten the lock nut by turning it clockwise.
Apply constant pressure to the torque wrench until the desired torque value is reached.
The torque wrench will “click” when the desired torque is achieved.

### 7. Double-Check the Torque:

After tightening the first lock nut, double-check the torque by rotating the torque wrench slightly.
The torque value should remain at the specified setting.

### 8. Repeat for Remaining Lock Nuts:

Torque the remaining lock nuts in the same manner.

### 9. Reinstall the Wheel Cover (if applicable):

If applicable, reinstall the wheel cover over the lock nuts.

## Troubleshooting:

Loose Lock Nuts: If the lock nuts become loose while driving, immediately stop the vehicle and retighten them.
Over-Torqued Lock Nuts: Over-tightening can damage the lock nuts and wheel studs. If you suspect over-torquing, have the wheels inspected by a mechanic.
Stripped Wheel Studs: If the wheel studs are stripped, the lock nuts will not be able to hold the wheel securely. Replace the damaged studs before driving the vehicle.

## Safety Precautions:

Always use a torque wrench to ensure proper tightness.
Never over-tighten the lock nuts.
Double-check the torque values after tightening.
Keep lock nut keys in a safe place.
If you lose a lock nut, replace it immediately.
Have your wheels inspected regularly to ensure the lock nuts are properly torqued.