What does it mean to “torque” the wheel lug nuts?
To torque means to tighten the wheel lug nuts to all the same tightness. A torque wrench is needed to torque wheels to the correct setting. Over tightened lug nuts can distort the stud’s thread, strip the lug nut, warp the brake rotor, weaken the fastener, and ultimately cause the stud to break causing an accident. Under tightened lug nuts may loosen up and cause the wheel to come off. Torque specifications are given in lb-ft (or Newton-Meters in the Metric System) and vary depending on the stud diameter and wheel design. Refer to your owner’s manual for lug nut torque specifications.
