Ford Focus ST Lug Nut Torque Specifications
Why Lug Nut Torque is Important
Properly torquing the lug nuts on your Ford Focus ST is crucial for the safety and performance of your vehicle. The lug nuts secure the wheels to the car’s hub, and if they are not tightened correctly, it can lead to a variety of issues, including wheel vibrations, uneven tire wear, and even the possibility of the wheels coming off while driving. Therefore, it is essential to follow the recommended torque specifications provided by Ford.
Ford Focus ST Lug Nut Torque Specifications
To ensure the correct torque is applied to the lug nuts on your Ford Focus ST, refer to the following chart for the specific torque values in lb-ft and Nm:
| Wheel Size | Torque Specification (lb-ft) | Torque Specification (Nm) |
|---|---|---|
| 16-inch | 85-105 lb-ft | 115-142 Nm |
| 17-inch | 85-105 lb-ft | 115-142 Nm |
| 18-inch | 85-105 lb-ft | 115-142 Nm |
Steps to Properly Torque Lug Nuts on Ford Focus ST
To ensure the lug nuts are torqued correctly on your Ford Focus ST, follow these steps:
- Start by parking your vehicle on a level surface and engaging the parking brake.
- Using a lug wrench or a torque wrench, loosen each lug nut on the wheel you intend to work on, but do not remove them completely.
- Consult the torque specifications chart above to determine the appropriate torque value for your specific wheel size.
- Attach the appropriate socket to your torque wrench, ensuring it matches the size of your lug nuts.
- Begin tightening each lug nut in a star pattern, alternating between nuts to ensure even pressure distribution.
- Continue tightening until you reach the specified torque value. Use a torque wrench to accurately measure the torque applied.
- Once all lug nuts are torqued to the recommended specification, double-check each nut to ensure they are properly tightened.
- Repeat the process for each wheel on your Ford Focus ST.
Regular Lug Nut Maintenance
It is important to periodically check the lug nut torque on your Ford Focus ST to ensure they remain properly tightened. Factors such as temperature changes, driving conditions, and wheel removal for maintenance or tire changes can affect the torque of the lug nuts. It is recommended to check the torque every 5,000 to 7,500 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, tighten them to the specified torque value.
- Inspect the lug nuts for any signs of damage or wear. Replace any damaged or worn lug nuts immediately.
- Ensure the wheel studs and hub surfaces are clean before reinstalling the wheels.
Conclusion
Properly torquing the lug nuts on your Ford Focus ST is essential for the safety and performance of your vehicle. By following the recommended torque specifications and regularly checking the torque, you can ensure that your wheels are securely fastened and minimize the risk of any potential issues. Remember to always consult the specific torque values provided by Ford for your particular wheel size to maintain the optimal performance of your Ford Focus ST.