Lug-Nut Torque Lookup
General lug-nut torque ranges by vehicle class.
| Vehicle class | Torque range |
|---|---|
| Compact car / sedan | 80–100 ft-lb |
| Midsize sedan / crossover | 90–110 ft-lb |
| Full-size truck / SUV | 100–140 ft-lb |
| Heavy-duty truck (dual rear wheel) | 175–200+ ft-lb |
Always use your vehicle's exact spec when available
Lug nut torque is safety-critical -- under-torqued wheels can loosen and separate, over-torqued studs can stretch or snap. These ranges are general by vehicle class; your specific vehicle's exact spec is usually printed in the owner's manual or on a driver's-door-jamb sticker, and should be used over a general range whenever available.
Where these numbers come from
General published torque ranges by vehicle class. Always torque lug nuts in the correct star/cross pattern (never a simple circular sequence) and confirm your exact vehicle's specification -- this is genuinely safety-critical hardware.
Frequently asked questions
Why does the tightening pattern matter, not just the torque?
Tightening in a star or cross pattern (rather than around in a circle) seats the wheel evenly against the hub, preventing warping and uneven clamping that a circular sequence can cause.
What happens if lug nuts are under-torqued?
They can loosen over time from vibration and road forces, risking a wheel separating from the vehicle -- this is genuinely dangerous, not just a maintenance inconvenience.
Should I re-torque new wheels after driving?
Yes -- many shops recommend re-checking torque after 50-100 miles on newly installed wheels, since they can settle slightly as everything seats.
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