2014 Ford Explorer Lug Nut Torque Specs
Why Lug Nut Torque Matters
Properly torquing the lug nuts on your vehicle’s wheels is crucial for both safety and performance. If the lug nuts are not tightened to the correct specifications, it can lead to wheel damage, uneven tire wear, and even the possibility of the wheel coming off while driving. In this article, we will provide you with the recommended lug nut torque specifications for the 2014 Ford Explorer.
Lug Nut Torque Specifications
To ensure the safe and secure installation of your wheels, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications. For the 2014 Ford Explorer, the lug nut torque specifications are as follows:
| Wheel Size | Torque Specs (lb-ft/Nm) |
|---|---|
| 17-inch wheels | 100 lb-ft / 135 Nm |
| 18-inch wheels | 100 lb-ft / 135 Nm |
| 20-inch wheels | 150 lb-ft / 203 Nm |
How to Properly Torque Lug Nuts
To ensure the lug nuts are tightened to the correct specifications, follow these steps:
- Start by using a lug wrench or a torque wrench to loosen the lug nuts on each wheel. Loosen them in a crisscross pattern to prevent the wheel from tilting.
- Once the lug nuts are loose, use a jack to lift the vehicle off the ground. Make sure to place jack stands under the vehicle for added safety.
- Remove the lug nuts and the wheel from the vehicle.
- Clean the wheel hub and the mounting surface to remove any dirt or debris.
- Place the wheel back onto the wheel hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern.
- Using a torque wrench, tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque for your wheel size. Refer to the table above for the correct torque specifications.
- After tightening all the lug nuts, lower the vehicle back to the ground using the jack.
- Finally, use the torque wrench to double-check the lug nut torque after the vehicle is back on the ground. This ensures that all lug nuts are properly tightened.
Importance of Regularly Checking Lug Nut Torque
It is important to regularly check the lug nut torque on your vehicle, especially after any maintenance or tire rotation. Over time, the lug nuts may loosen due to vibrations and other factors. By periodically checking and tightening the lug nuts to the recommended torque, you can prevent any potential issues and ensure the safety of your vehicle.
Conclusion
Properly torquing the lug nuts on your 2014 Ford Explorer is essential for the safety and performance of your vehicle. By following the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications and using the correct torque wrench, you can ensure that your wheels are securely fastened. Regularly checking the lug nut torque will help maintain the integrity of your wheels and prevent any potential accidents on the road.