2018 Ford Explorer Lug Nut Torque Spec
Why Lug Nut Torque Matters
Properly torquing the lug nuts on your vehicle’s wheels is crucial for ensuring your safety on the road. The torque specification determines the amount of force applied to the lug nuts, which helps maintain the wheels securely in place. If the lug nuts are not tightened to the correct torque, it can lead to wheel vibrations, uneven wear on the tires, and even the possibility of the wheels coming loose while driving. Therefore, it is essential to follow the recommended lug nut torque specifications provided by the manufacturer.
2018 Ford Explorer Lug Nut Torque Specifications
When it comes to the lug nut torque specifications for the 2018 Ford Explorer, it is important to consult the owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s guidelines for the most accurate and up-to-date information. However, here are the general torque specifications for the 2018 Ford Explorer:
| Wheel Size | Torque Specification (lb-ft/Nm) |
|---|---|
| 16-inch | 100 lb-ft / 135 Nm |
| 17-inch | 100 lb-ft / 135 Nm |
| 18-inch | 150 lb-ft / 203 Nm |
| 20-inch | 150 lb-ft / 203 Nm |
Steps to Properly Torque Lug Nuts
To ensure that you torque the lug nuts correctly on your 2018 Ford Explorer, follow these steps:
- Start by parking your vehicle on a flat and level surface.
- Locate the lug wrench or torque wrench and the appropriate socket size for your lug nuts.
- Loosen the lug nuts on each wheel by turning them counterclockwise, but do not remove them completely at this stage.
- Using a torque wrench, tighten each lug nut in a star pattern. This means tightening the lug nuts in a sequence that resembles a star, alternating between opposite lug nuts.
- Apply the torque gradually, increasing the force until you reach the specified torque value.
- Once all the lug nuts have been torqued to the proper specification, double-check each one to ensure they are all tightened correctly.
- Repeat the process for each wheel on your 2018 Ford Explorer.
Importance of Regularly Checking Lug Nut Torque
After torquing the lug nuts on your 2018 Ford Explorer, it is essential to periodically check them to ensure they remain properly tightened. Factors such as temperature changes, driving conditions, and wheel maintenance can affect the torque on the lug nuts over time. It is recommended to check the lug nut torque after the first 50 miles of driving and then periodically thereafter. This will help prevent any potential issues and ensure your wheels are securely fastened.
Conclusion
Properly torquing the lug nuts on your 2018 Ford Explorer is crucial for your safety on the road. By following the 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 issues. Remember to consult your owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s guidelines for the most accurate and up-to-date information on lug nut torque specifications for your specific vehicle.