Acura RDX 2019-present Body & Frame Bolt Torque Specifications
Detailed torque specifications for various body bolts on the 2019-present Acura RDX, including chassis, panels, and interior components.
Important Information
Safety guidelines and reference information for proper torque application
Safety First
- Always verify torque specifications with your vehicle's factory service manual
- Use properly calibrated torque wrenches
- Replace all torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts - they are single-use only
- When in doubt, consult a professional mechanic
Quick Reference Guide
Quick Reference Guide
Common Torque Patterns
Star Pattern
Used for wheels and other circular bolt patterns
Cross Pattern
Used for gaskets and cover plates
Sequential Pattern
Used for head bolts and other critical components
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Over-tightening
Exceeding the specified torque value can stretch or break fasteners, damage threads, or crack components.
Always use a calibrated torque wrench and follow specifications exactly.
Incorrect Torque Sequence
Tightening bolts in the wrong order can cause uneven pressure distribution and potential leaks or damage.
Follow the manufacturer's specified torque sequence pattern.
Dirty Threads
Dirt, rust, or old thread locker can affect torque readings and proper fastener tension.
Clean and inspect all threads before assembly. Use new thread locker if specified.
Reusing TTY Bolts
Torque-to-yield bolts are designed to stretch and must not be reused.
Always replace TTY bolts with new ones. They are single-use only.
Dry vs. Lubricated
Not accounting for whether torque specs are for dry or lubricated fasteners can lead to incorrect tension.
Check if specs are for dry or lubricated threads. Use specified lubricant when required.
Recommended Tools
Recommended Tools
Torque Wrench (1/4" Drive)
Torque Wrench (3/8" Drive)
Torque Wrench (1/2" Drive)
Angle Gauge
Torque Wrench Care
- Calibrate annually or after 5,000 clicks
- Store at lowest setting
- Keep clean and lubricated
Search Specifications
Search by component name, bolt size, or description
Torque Calculator
Convert between different torque units
Front bumper and fascia
Components that secure the front bumper and fascia to the vehicle frame, ensuring proper alignment and preventing damage in the event of a collision.
1 Front Bumper Mounting Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Front Bumper Mounting Bolts
M10 x 1.5Torque Value
Important Notes
2 Front Fascia Mounting Screws
M6 x 1.0
Front Fascia Mounting Screws
M6 x 1.0Torque Value
Important Notes
Hood and hood hinges
Components that secure the hood and hood hinges to the vehicle frame, ensuring proper hood alignment and preventing damage from excessive stress.
1 Hood Hinge Bolts
M12 x 1.75
Hood Hinge Bolts
M12 x 1.75Torque Value
Important Notes
2 Hood Latch Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Hood Latch Bolts
M10 x 1.5Torque Value
Important Notes
Front doors and door hinges
Components that secure the front doors and door hinges to the vehicle frame, ensuring proper door alignment and preventing damage from excessive stress.
1 Front Door Hinge Bolts
M12 x 1.75
Front Door Hinge Bolts
M12 x 1.75Torque Value
Important Notes
2 Front Door Check Arm Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Front Door Check Arm Bolts
M10 x 1.5Torque Value
Important Notes
Rear doors and door hinges
Components that secure the rear doors and door hinges to the vehicle frame, ensuring proper door alignment and preventing damage from excessive stress.
1 Rear Door Hinge Bolts
M12 x 1.75
Rear Door Hinge Bolts
M12 x 1.75Torque Value
Important Notes
2 Rear Door Check Arm Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Rear Door Check Arm Bolts
M10 x 1.5Torque Value
Important Notes
Trunk lid and trunk hinges
Components that secure the trunk lid and trunk hinges to the vehicle frame, ensuring proper trunk lid alignment and preventing damage from excessive stress.
1 Trunk Lid Hinge Bolts
M12 x 1.75
Trunk Lid Hinge Bolts
M12 x 1.75Torque Value
Important Notes
2 Trunk Lid Latch Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Trunk Lid Latch Bolts
M10 x 1.5Torque Value
Important Notes
Roof and roof rails
Components that secure the roof rails to the vehicle frame, ensuring proper roof rail alignment and preventing damage from excessive stress.
1 Roof Rail Mounting Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Roof Rail Mounting Bolts
M10 x 1.5Torque Value
Important Notes
2 Roof Rail End Cap Screws
M6 x 1.0
Roof Rail End Cap Screws
M6 x 1.0Torque Value
Important Notes
Safety-critical fasteners
Components that secure critical safety features to the vehicle frame, ensuring proper function and preventing damage in the event of a collision.
1 Front Bumper Energy Absorber Bolts
M12 x 1.75
Front Bumper Energy Absorber Bolts
M12 x 1.75Torque Value
Important Notes
2 Hood Latch Striker Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Hood Latch Striker Bolts
M10 x 1.5Torque Value
Important Notes
Troubleshooting Guide
Common issues, diagnostic steps, and prevention guidelines
Common Issues
Bolt stretching, stripped threads, uneven torque patterns
Common Issues
Bolt stretching, stripped threads, uneven torque patterns
Loose Components
Symptoms:
- Rattling or vibration noises
- Visible movement in components
- Uneven panel gaps
Solutions:
- Clean threads and mounting surfaces
- Replace damaged fasteners
- Apply proper torque in sequence
- Use thread locker if specified
Stripped Fasteners
Symptoms:
- Unable to achieve proper torque
- Fastener spins freely
- Visible thread damage
Solutions:
- Use thread repair kit if appropriate
- Install thread insert (HeliCoil)
- Replace component if threaded hole is damaged
- Upgrade to higher grade fastener if recommended
Overtightened Components
Symptoms:
- Cracked or deformed parts
- Broken fasteners
- Compressed gaskets or seals
Solutions:
- Replace damaged components
- Use new fasteners
- Follow proper torque sequence
- Verify correct torque specifications
Diagnostic Steps
Visual inspection, torque verification, thread assessment
Diagnostic Steps
Visual inspection, torque verification, thread assessment
Visual Inspection
Inspect the affected area for any visible signs of damage or wear
- Check for cracks or deformation
- Look for signs of excessive wear
- Verify proper fastener installation
Torque Verification
Verify the torque applied to the fasteners
- Check the torque wrench calibration
- Verify the torque specification
- Compare the applied torque to the specification
Thread Assessment
Assess the condition of the threads
- Check for signs of thread damage
- Verify the thread type and size
- Check for proper thread engagement
Prevention Guidelines
Best practices, maintenance tips, tool care
Prevention Guidelines
Best practices, maintenance tips, tool care
Best Practices
- Always follow the recommended torque specification
- Use the correct type and size of fasteners
- Verify the torque wrench calibration regularly
Maintenance Tips
- Regularly inspect the affected area for signs of wear or damage
- Replace damaged or worn-out components promptly
- Keep the work area clean and organized
Tool Care
- Regularly clean and maintain the torque wrench
- Store the torque wrench in a dry and secure location
- Verify the torque wrench calibration before each use
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about torque specifications
Q1 Why are correct torque specifications important for body bolts?
Why are correct torque specifications important for body bolts?
Correct torque ensures proper clamping force, preventing bolts from loosening due to vibration, which could lead to panels misaligning, squeaking, or even falling off. Over-tightening can damage the threads or the panels, while under-tightening creates weak joints susceptible to failure. Think of a door panel; if the bolts are not torqued properly, the panel may rattle or even come loose during driving.
Q2 What tools do I need to properly torque body bolts?
What tools do I need to properly torque body bolts?
You'll need a calibrated torque wrench, sockets of the correct sizes for your RDX's body bolts, and potentially extensions or adapters depending on the location of the bolts. It is highly recommended that you have a click-type torque wrench, which audibly indicates when the set torque is achieved. Avoid using impact wrenches for final torque as they can easily over-tighten fasteners.
Q3 How often should I check the torque on body bolts?
How often should I check the torque on body bolts?
It's good practice to check body bolt torque after any body repair or panel removal. For routine maintenance, checking every 12-24 months is sufficient. However, if you frequently drive on rough roads, more frequent checks are advised. For example, after an off-road adventure, you should check the torque on the bumper and fender bolts.
Q4 What happens if I don't have a torque wrench?
What happens if I don't have a torque wrench?
While you might be tempted to 'tighten by feel,' it's extremely risky for body bolts. Guessing torque can lead to damage or unsafe conditions. If you do not have a torque wrench, it is highly recommended that you either purchase one or take your vehicle to a certified mechanic. Using an imprecise method may result in loose panels or damaged threads.
Q5 What if I overtighten a body bolt?
What if I overtighten a body bolt?
If you overtighten a bolt, you risk stripping the threads on the bolt or in the panel itself. If you believe this has happened, remove the bolt and examine it, along with the threaded hole for any damage. If stripped, a new bolt and/or repair to the hole will be needed. Avoid driving with stripped bolts.
Environmental Considerations
Temperature, humidity, and seasonal effects on torque specifications
Temperature Effects
Includes: High Heat, Cold Weather, Thermal Cycling
Temperature Effects
Includes: High Heat, Cold Weather, Thermal Cycling
Temperature can significantly impact torque values and fastener behavior
Cold Weather
Effects:
- Increased material brittleness
- Higher torque required due to thread contraction
- Reduced thread lubricant effectiveness
Recommendations:
- Allow components to warm to room temperature when possible
- Consider using winter-grade thread lubricants
- Check torque values more frequently during winter months
Hot Weather
Effects:
- Thermal expansion of components
- Decreased friction in threads
- Accelerated lubricant breakdown
Recommendations:
- Check torque when components are at normal operating temperature
- Use temperature-resistant thread lockers
- Consider re-torquing after heat cycles
Humidity and Corrosion
Covers: Rust Prevention, Salt Exposure, Moisture Control
Humidity and Corrosion
Covers: Rust Prevention, Salt Exposure, Moisture Control
Moisture and corrosion can affect fastener integrity and torque values
High Humidity
Effects:
- Accelerated corrosion formation
- Reduced friction coefficient
- Potential thread seizing
Prevention:
- Use corrosion-resistant fasteners
- Apply appropriate anti-seize compounds
- Maintain proper protective coatings
Salt Exposure
Effects:
- Rapid corrosion development
- Thread damage
- Seized fasteners
Prevention:
- Regular underbody washing
- Use of sacrificial anodes where appropriate
- Application of protective coatings
Seasonal Maintenance
Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter maintenance schedules
Seasonal Maintenance
Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter maintenance schedules
Spring
- Inspect for winter damage
- Clean and protect exposed fasteners
- Check torque on critical components
Summer
- Monitor heat-affected components
- Check expansion-related loosening
- Inspect cooling system mounts
Fall
- Prepare for winter conditions
- Apply corrosion protection
- Verify all fasteners are properly torqued
Winter
- More frequent inspection of critical fasteners
- Check for salt damage
- Monitor suspension component torque
Related Resources
Tools, service procedures, and technical bulletins
Recommended Tools
Torque Wrench
A precision torque wrench for accurate torque application
- Range: 10-100 ft-lbs
- Accuracy: ±2% of reading
Socket Set
A set of sockets for various bolt sizes
- Sizes: 10mm, 12mm, 14mm
- Material: Chrome vanadium steel
Service Procedures
Body Bolt Torque Specification
Procedure for applying correct torque to body bolts
- Locate the body bolt to be torqued
- Select the correct socket size
- Apply the recommended torque specification
- Verify torque with a torque wrench
Body Panel Removal and Installation
Procedure for removing and installing body panels
- Remove trim and moldings
- Disconnect electrical connectors
- Remove body panel fasteners
- Install body panel and fasteners
Technical Service Bulletins
Body Bolt Torque Specification Update
2020-02-15Update to body bolt torque specifications for 2019-2020 RDX models
Resolution: Refer to updated torque specification chart for correct torque values
Body Panel Fastener Replacement
2019-08-01Procedure for replacing body panel fasteners on 2019 RDX models
Resolution: Replace fasteners with new ones of the correct type and torque to specification
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Technical Information
- All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
- Vehicle specifications and procedures may vary by model year, trim level, and region.
- Always follow the manufacturer's recommended procedures and safety precautions.
- Working on vehicles can be dangerous. Always take proper safety precautions and use appropriate safety equipment.
- If you're unsure about any procedure, consult a qualified professional mechanic.