2017 Chevy Malibu Lug Nut Torque Specs
Why Lug Nut Torque Matters
Properly torquing the lug nuts on your 2017 Chevy Malibu is crucial for the safety and performance of your vehicle. The correct torque ensures that the wheels are securely fastened to the hub, preventing them from loosening or coming off while driving. It also helps distribute the load evenly across the wheel studs, reducing the risk of damage or failure. In this article, we will provide you with the recommended lug nut torque specifications for your Chevy Malibu.
Recommended Torque Specifications
To ensure the correct torque is applied to your Chevy Malibu’s lug nuts, refer to the following table for the specific values in lb-ft (pound-feet) and Nm (Newton-meters):
| Wheel Size | Lug Nut Torque (lb-ft) | Lug Nut Torque (Nm) |
|---|---|---|
| 16-inch | 100-110 | 135-150 |
| 17-inch | 100-110 | 135-150 |
| 18-inch | 100-110 | 135-150 |
| 19-inch | 100-110 | 135-150 |
Steps to Properly Torque Lug Nuts
To ensure the lug nuts on your Chevy Malibu are torqued correctly, follow these steps:
- Start by parking your vehicle on a level surface and engaging the parking brake.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you want to torque, but do not remove them completely.
- Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or the torque specifications chart above to determine the appropriate torque value for your specific wheel size.
- Using a torque wrench, tighten each lug nut in a star or crisscross pattern. This helps ensure even torque distribution.
- Continue tightening the lug nuts until you reach the recommended torque value.
- Once all the lug nuts are properly torqued, double-check their tightness by using the torque wrench to ensure they haven’t loosened during the torquing process.
- Repeat the process for each wheel on your Chevy Malibu.
Importance of Regularly Checking Lug Nut Torque
After torquing the lug nuts on your Chevy Malibu, it is essential to periodically check their torque to ensure they remain properly tightened. Factors such as temperature changes, driving conditions, and wheel removal/reinstallation can affect the torque of the lug nuts. It is recommended to check the torque every 5,000 miles or during routine maintenance intervals.
- Use a torque wrench to check the torque of each lug nut.
- If any lug nuts are found to be loose, immediately torque them to the recommended specifications.
- If you encounter any issues or concerns, consult a certified mechanic or your local Chevrolet dealership for assistance.
Conclusion
Properly torquing the lug nuts on your 2017 Chevy Malibu is essential for your safety and the longevity of your vehicle. By following the recommended torque specifications and regularly checking the torque, you can ensure that your wheels are securely fastened and reduce the risk of any potential issues. Remember to always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a trusted source for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding lug nut torque specifications.