Subaru Impreza Wheel Nut Torque: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding the Importance of Wheel Nut Torque
Properly torquing the wheel nuts on your Subaru Impreza is crucial for ensuring the safety and performance of your vehicle. Wheel nut torque refers to the amount of force applied to tighten the nuts that secure the wheels to the vehicle’s hub. Insufficient torque can lead to loose wheels, while excessive torque can damage the wheel studs or even cause them to break. To avoid these risks, it’s essential to follow the recommended torque settings provided by Subaru.
Subaru Impreza Lug Nut Torque Settings
To assist you in achieving the correct wheel nut torque for your Subaru Impreza, we have compiled a detailed lug nut torque settings chart in both lb-ft (pound-feet) and Nm (Newton-meters) units. Please refer to the chart below for the specific torque values based on your Impreza model and year:
| Model | Year | Torque (lb-ft) | Torque (Nm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Impreza | 2017-2021 | 89-108 | 120-147 |
| Impreza | 2012-2016 | 89-108 | 120-147 |
| Impreza | 2008-2011 | 80-94 | 108-128 |
| Impreza | 2002-2007 | 58-72 | 78-98 |
Steps to Properly Torque Subaru Impreza Wheel Nuts
To ensure the correct torque is applied to your Subaru Impreza’s wheel nuts, follow these steps:
- Start by parking your vehicle on a level surface and engaging the parking brake.
- Using a lug wrench or a suitable socket and torque wrench, loosen each wheel nut in a diagonal pattern (e.g., front left, rear right, front right, rear left). This helps prevent warping the brake rotors.
- Once all the nuts are loose, use a torque wrench to tighten them in a star or crisscross pattern. This ensures even distribution of torque.
- Refer to the lug nut torque settings chart above and set your torque wrench accordingly.
- Starting with the first nut, apply the torque gradually in a clockwise direction until the specified torque value is reached.
- Repeat the process for each wheel nut, following the recommended tightening sequence.
- After torquing all the nuts, double-check their tightness by reapplying the torque wrench to ensure they remain within the specified range.
Additional Tips and Precautions
- Always use a reliable torque wrench to achieve accurate torque values.
- Ensure the wheel nuts and studs are clean and free from debris or rust before torquing.
- Do not use an impact wrench for torquing, as it can easily exceed the recommended torque and lead to over-tightening.
- Regularly check the torque of your wheel nuts after driving a few miles, as they may settle and require re-torquing.
- If you are uncertain about the correct torque settings for your specific Impreza model and year, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or contact a Subaru dealership for assistance.
Conclusion
Properly torquing the wheel nuts on your Subaru Impreza is a simple yet crucial task that ensures your safety on the road. By following the recommended torque settings and using the correct torquing technique, you can maintain the integrity of your vehicle’s wheels and enjoy a smooth and secure driving experience. Remember to refer to the lug nut torque settings chart provided in this article and follow the steps outlined to achieve the optimal torque for your Subaru Impreza.