Acura TL 2004-2008 Brake System Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Acura TL 2004-2008

Acura TL 2004-2008 Brake System Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed torque specifications for all brake-related bolts on the 2004-2008 Acura TL, including caliper bolts, bracket bolts, and bleed screw torques.

Updated

Important Information

Safety guidelines and reference information for proper torque application

Quick Reference Guide

ft-lbs → Nm
× 1.356
ft-lbs → kg-m
× 0.138
Nm → ft-lbs
× 0.738
in-lbs → ft-lbs
× 0.083

Common Torque Patterns

Star Pattern

Used for wheels and other circular bolt patterns

Star Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence
Cross Pattern

Used for gaskets and cover plates

Cross Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence
Sequential Pattern

Used for head bolts and other critical components

Sequential Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-tightening

Exceeding the specified torque value can stretch or break fasteners, damage threads, or crack components.

Prevention:

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.

Prevention:

Follow the manufacturer's specified torque sequence pattern.

Dirty Threads

Dirt, rust, or old thread locker can affect torque readings and proper fastener tension.

Prevention:

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.

Prevention:

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.

Prevention:

Check if specs are for dry or lubricated threads. Use specified lubricant when required.

Recommended Tools

Torque Wrench (1/4" Drive)

Range: 2-25 ft-lbs
Small fasteners, delicate components

Torque Wrench (3/8" Drive)

Range: 10-100 ft-lbs
Most common automotive fasteners

Torque Wrench (1/2" Drive)

Range: 30-250 ft-lbs
Large fasteners, wheels

Angle Gauge

Torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts

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

Brake Caliper

Torque specifications for the brake caliper and related components.

1

Brake Caliper Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the brake caliper to the mounting bracket. Ensure proper alignment before tightening.
2

Brake Hose Banjo Bolt

M10 x 1.0
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Connects the brake hose to the caliper. Use new crush washers and ensure proper alignment to prevent leaks.
3

Bleeder Screw

M7 x 1.0
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
Important Notes
Used for bleeding air from the brake system. Do not over tighten as the threads can be easily stripped.

Brake Mounting Bracket

Torque specifications for the brake caliper mounting bracket.

1

Brake Caliper Mounting Bracket Bolts

M12 x 1.25
Torque Value
79 ft-lbs (107 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the mounting bracket to the steering knuckle or hub. Ensure bolts are clean and in good condition.

Brake Rotor

Torque specifications for brake rotor/drum components.

1

Brake Disc/Drum Retaining Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
Important Notes
Used to hold the rotor or drum in place during assembly, not for braking forces.

Wheel And Hub

Torque specifications for wheel and related components

1

Wheel Lug Nuts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
80 ft-lbs (108 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the wheel to the rotor/drum. Tighten in a star pattern to ensure even pressure.

Abs System

Torque specifications for ABS-related components.

1

ABS Wheel Speed Sensor Bolt

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the ABS wheel speed sensor to the hub or steering knuckle. Do not over tighten as it can damage the sensor.

Master Cylinder And Booster

Torque specifications for the brake master cylinder, brake booster, and related components.

1

Brake Master Cylinder Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the master cylinder to the brake booster or firewall. Ensure proper alignment before tightening.
2

Brake Booster Mounting Nuts/Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the brake booster to the firewall. Ensure proper alignment before tightening.

Troubleshooting Guide

Common issues, diagnostic steps, and prevention guidelines

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

1

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
2

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
3

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

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 torque specifications important for brake components?

Correct torque is critical for brake safety and performance. Under-tightening can cause bolts to loosen, leading to component failure, while over-tightening can stretch or break bolts, damage threads, or distort brake components like rotors. This can severely impact braking effectiveness and safety.

Q2

What happens if I overtighten a brake caliper bolt?

Overtightening a caliper bolt can damage the threads in the caliper bracket or the bolt itself. This can lead to stripping the threads, requiring costly repairs. It may also distort the caliper housing, affecting piston movement and causing brake drag or uneven pad wear. In extreme cases, the bolt can shear, resulting in brake component failure.

Q3

Can I reuse brake caliper mounting bolts?

It's generally recommended to replace brake caliper mounting bolts whenever they are removed, especially those that use a thread-locking compound. This is because the threads can become stretched after use and lose their clamping force and holding torque when re-used. Reusing an old bolt can affect brake performance.

Q4

What type of lubricant should I use on brake hardware?

Use a high-temperature, synthetic brake lubricant specifically designed for brake components. Apply it to the contact points between the brake pads and caliper, as well as the caliper slide pins (if applicable). Avoid petroleum-based lubricants, as they can degrade rubber components. Do not apply to braking surfaces themselves.

Q5

How often should I inspect my brake components?

It's advisable to inspect your brake system at least every six months, or with every oil change, or if you experience any braking abnormalities. Check the brake pads for wear, rotors for scoring or damage, caliper for proper function and leaks, and all mounting hardware for tightness and good condition.

Environmental Considerations

Temperature, humidity, and seasonal effects on torque specifications

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

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

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 (1/2 inch drive)

A calibrated torque wrench is essential for accurately tightening brake components to specified torque values.

  • 10-150 ft-lb torque range
  • 1/2 inch drive for most brake fasteners
Learn more

Torque Wrench (3/8 inch drive)

A smaller torque wrench for smaller bolts and fittings.

  • 5-80 ft-lb torque range
  • 3/8 inch drive for smaller brake fasteners
Learn more

Socket Set (Metric)

A comprehensive metric socket set is required to fit various bolt heads on brake components.

  • Common sizes: 10mm, 12mm, 14mm, 17mm, 19mm
  • Both deep and shallow sockets
Learn more

Wrench Set (Metric)

Wrenches are needed for holding bolts while tightening and other brake tasks.

  • Common sizes: 10mm, 12mm, 14mm, 17mm
  • Combination wrench type is recommended
Learn more
Service Procedures

Front Brake Caliper Bracket Bolt Torque

Procedure for torquing the bolts securing the front brake caliper bracket to the wheel hub.

  • Locate the two bolts securing the front caliper bracket to the hub.
  • Using the appropriate sized socket and torque wrench, tighten the bolts to 80 ft-lbs (108 Nm).
  • Recheck the torque to ensure proper tightness.
View full procedure

Front Brake Caliper Mounting Bolt Torque

Procedure for torquing the bolts securing the front caliper to the caliper bracket.

  • Locate the two bolts securing the front caliper to the bracket.
  • Using the appropriate sized socket and torque wrench, tighten the bolts to 25 ft-lbs (34 Nm).
  • Recheck the torque to ensure proper tightness.
View full procedure

Rear Brake Caliper Bracket Bolt Torque

Procedure for torquing the bolts securing the rear brake caliper bracket to the wheel hub.

  • Locate the two bolts securing the rear caliper bracket to the hub.
  • Using the appropriate sized socket and torque wrench, tighten the bolts to 47 ft-lbs (64 Nm).
  • Recheck the torque to ensure proper tightness.
View full procedure

Rear Brake Caliper Mounting Bolt Torque

Procedure for torquing the bolts securing the rear caliper to the caliper bracket.

  • Locate the two bolts securing the rear caliper to the bracket.
  • Using the appropriate sized socket and torque wrench, tighten the bolts to 17 ft-lbs (23 Nm).
  • Recheck the torque to ensure proper tightness.
View full procedure

Brake Hose Banjo Bolt Torque

Procedure for torquing the brake hose banjo bolt.

  • Locate the banjo bolt connecting the brake hose to the caliper.
  • Using the appropriate sized wrench and torque wrench, tighten the bolt to 22 ft-lbs (30 Nm).
  • Recheck the torque to ensure proper tightness.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Brake Caliper Bolt Corrosion

2007-05-15

Corrosion may occur on brake caliper bolts leading to improper torque application. Inspect and replace if needed

2004-2008

Resolution: Inspect bolts for corrosion, replace if needed and apply anti-seize compound during reinstallation.

Rear Caliper Slide Pin Binding

2006-11-02

Rear caliper slide pins can bind due to corrosion, leading to uneven pad wear and reduced braking performance. Ensure proper lubrication.

2004-2007

Resolution: Clean and lubricate caliper slide pins. Replace if worn or severely corroded. Apply silicone based grease for reassembly.

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
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Alan Montanye

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