Acura TLX 2015-2020 2.4L Engine Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Acura TLX 2015-2020

Acura TLX 2015-2020 2.4L Engine Bolt Torque Specifications

Comprehensive list of bolt torque specifications for the 2.4L engine in the 2015-2020 Acura TLX, including cylinder head, main bearing, connecting rod, and other critical fasteners.

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

2.4l-engine Cylinder Head

Torque specifications for the cylinder head and related components.

1

Cylinder Head Bolts

M11 x 1.25 (estimated)
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in the correct sequence, typically in multiple stages. Consult the service manual for the specific sequence. Bolt size is an estimate.
2

Valve Cover Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts evenly to prevent leaks and damage to the valve cover. Avoid over-tightening.
3

Rocker Arms/Shafts Bolts (Cam Holder)

M8 x 1.25 (estimated)
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure rocker arms/shafts (also known as cam holders) are properly seated before tightening. Torque in sequence, consult manual.
4

Camshaft Bearing Cap/Holder Bolts

M8 x 1.25 (estimated)
Torque Value
15 ft-lbs (20 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in a specified sequence to ensure even pressure on the camshaft. Bolt size is an estimate. Consult service manual for sequence.
5

Spark Plugs

M14 x 1.25 (estimated)
Torque Value
13 ft-lbs (18 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure spark plugs are properly seated before tightening. Avoid over-tightening to prevent damage to cylinder head threads. Bolt size is estimated.
6

Exhaust Manifold/Headers to Cylinder Head Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in a sequence to ensure even clamping pressure and prevent leaks. Consult service manual.
7

Water Pump Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts evenly to ensure proper water pump sealing and prevent coolant leaks.
8

Thermostat Housing Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts evenly to ensure a coolant tight seal. Avoid over-tightening, which can damage the thermostat housing.

2.4l-engine Block

Torque specifications for engine block components.

1

Main Bearing Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
46 ft-lbs (63 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in a specified sequence and in multiple stages. Consult the service manual for specific tightening procedure.
2

Oil Pan Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
6 ft-lbs (8 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts evenly to prevent oil leaks. Over-tightening can warp the pan flange. 71 inch-lbs is equivalent to approximately 6 ft-lbs
3

Oil Filter Housing Bolt

M10 x 1.5 (estimated)
Torque Value
15 ft-lbs (20 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten to prevent oil leaks. Bolt size is an estimate
4

Oil Drain Plug Bolt

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
29 ft-lbs (39 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten to prevent oil leaks. Ensure new crush washer is in place.

2.4l-engine Internal

Torque specifications for internal engine components.

1

Connecting Rod Nuts

M8 x 1.0 (estimated)
Torque Value
23 ft-lbs (31 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten nuts in a specific sequence and in multiple stages to ensure proper bearing crush. Consult service manual for the specific procedure. Bolt size is an estimate.
2

Camshaft Sprocket Bolt

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
56 ft-lbs (76 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the camshaft sprocket is properly aligned before tightening. Correct torque is important for valve timing.
3

Crankshaft Pulley/Harmonic Balancer Bolt

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
181 ft-lbs (245 N·m)
Important Notes
Use proper crankshaft holding tool when tightening this bolt. High torque is critical to ensure the pulley remains secured.
4

Variable Valve Timing (VTC) Actuator Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25 (estimated)
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure VTC actuator is correctly aligned. Proper torque is required for correct engine timing.

2.4l-engine Timing

Torque specifications related to the timing system.

1

Timing Belt/Chain Tensioner Bolt

M10 x 1.5 (estimated)
Torque Value
33 ft-lbs (45 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the tensioner is properly adjusted before tightening. Bolt size is an estimate.

2.4l-engine Intake System

Torque specifications for the intake system components.

1

Throttle Body Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten evenly to avoid air leaks. Use a new gasket when re-assembling.
2

Intake Manifold Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in a specified sequence to prevent vacuum leaks. Consult service manual for sequence.
3

Intake Manifold Runner Control Valve Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts evenly to ensure proper control valve function.
4

EGR Valve Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure a proper seal and correct operation of the EGR valve. Use a new gasket if necessary.

2.4l-engine Exhaust System

Torque specifications for the exhaust system components.

1

Exhaust Manifold/Headers Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in a specified sequence to ensure even clamping pressure. Consult the service manual for sequence.

2.4l-engine Fuel System

Torque specifications for the fuel system components

1

Fuel Rail Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten evenly to avoid fuel leaks.
2

Fuel Injector Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten evenly to ensure proper fuel injector sealing. Avoid over-tightening.

2.4l-engine Electrical

Torque specifications for the electrical system components.

1

Ignition Coil Bolt

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten evenly to ensure proper electrical connection and grounding.
2

Crankshaft Position Sensor Bolt

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten to ensure proper sensor alignment and function.
3

Knock Sensor Bolt

M8 x 1.25 (estimated)
Torque Value
15 ft-lbs (20 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten to ensure the sensor functions properly. Bolt size is estimated.

2.4l-engine Accessories

Torque specifications for engine accessories.

1

Water Pump Pulley Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten evenly to ensure proper pulley function.
2

Alternator Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
33 ft-lbs (45 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten evenly to ensure alternator is secure and proper belt tension.
3

Starter Motor Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
33 ft-lbs (45 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten evenly to ensure proper starter motor engagement with flywheel.

2.4l-engine Transmission

Torque specifications for components related to the transmission.

1

Flywheel Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
76 ft-lbs (103 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure flywheel is correctly aligned with dowel pins and properly seated. Use correct bolt tightening sequence. Consult service manual for sequence.

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 accurate torque specifications important for the 2.4L engine?

Accurate torque specifications are crucial for proper sealing, preventing leaks, ensuring component longevity, and maintaining the structural integrity of the 2.4L engine. Over-tightening can damage threads, gaskets, and components; under-tightening can lead to leaks, vibrations, and premature failure. For example, incorrect torque on cylinder head bolts can cause head gasket failure, leading to severe engine damage. Using a torque wrench and the proper specs prevents these problems.

Q2

Should I use new bolts when reassembling the engine components?

It is generally recommended to use new bolts, especially for critical components like cylinder head bolts and connecting rod bolts. Many of these bolts are designed for 'one-time use' and stretch upon tightening. Reusing stretched bolts can result in improper clamping force and lead to serious engine issues. For instance, reusing stretched connecting rod bolts risks bearing failure and catastrophic engine damage. Refer to the service manual for recommendations.

Q3

What happens if I don't have a torque wrench available?

While it's highly discouraged to install critical engine components without a torque wrench, you can approximate torque to a certain degree on less critical components using experience and feel. However, this method is highly unreliable and should only be used as a last resort. For the 2.4L engine, precise torque is critical for components like the intake manifold, exhaust manifold, and oil pan. Even a slight error can result in leaks or improper sealing. Rent or borrow a torque wrench if you need to work on these parts.

Q4

Do I need to lubricate the threads of bolts before tightening?

Lubrication is often required but is specific to the bolt and application. Some torque specifications are given for 'dry' threads, while others assume a light coating of engine oil or a specific thread lubricant. Always refer to the service manual for your specific 2015-2020 Acura TLX 2.4L engine. For example, cylinder head bolts typically require a light coat of clean engine oil on the threads and under the bolt head, and this is factored into the torque specification. Using a different lubricant or no lubricant can result in an incorrect torque reading and potential damage.

Q5

How often should I re-check bolt torque specifications?

Re-checking bolt torque is generally unnecessary after initial proper installation unless you are working on a critical component subject to heat cycles, such as the exhaust system. In this case, re-torque after a few heat cycles. However, it's good practice to occasionally inspect the engine for any signs of looseness. For example, after replacing a valve cover gasket on the 2.4L, it’s wise to check the bolts after a few days of driving to ensure there isn't any gasket squeeze or loosening.

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 bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque.

  • Click-type mechanism
  • Wide torque range (e.g., 20-150 ft-lbs)
Learn more

Torque Wrench (3/8 inch drive)

A smaller torque wrench for bolts requiring lower torque values.

  • Click-type mechanism
  • Lower torque range (e.g., 5-80 ft-lbs)
Learn more

Socket Set (Metric)

A comprehensive set of metric sockets to fit all the various bolt heads on the 2.4L engine.

  • Various sizes
  • 6-point sockets
Learn more

Extension Bars

Used to access recessed or hard-to-reach bolts.

  • Various lengths (e.g., 3 inch, 6 inch)
  • Durable construction
Learn more

Universal Joint

Allows the socket to pivot, useful for bolts at awkward angles.

  • Strong pivot joint
  • Compatible with socket sizes
Learn more
Service Procedures

Cylinder Head Bolt Tightening Procedure (2.4L)

The correct procedure for tightening the cylinder head bolts. Improper tightening can lead to engine damage.

  • Clean the cylinder head bolt threads and bolt holes thoroughly.
  • Lubricate the bolt threads with clean engine oil.
  • Install the cylinder head bolts by hand.
  • Tighten all bolts in sequence to the first specified torque.
  • Tighten all bolts in sequence to the second specified torque.
  • Check all bolts for proper torque with a calibrated torque wrench.
View full procedure

Engine Mount Bolt Tightening Procedure (2.4L)

The correct procedure for tightening the engine mount bolts. Necessary to maintain proper engine stability.

  • Position the engine mount correctly.
  • Install bolts by hand.
  • Tighten all bolts to the specified torque.
  • Check all bolts for proper torque.
View full procedure

Oil Pan Bolt Tightening Procedure (2.4L)

The proper tightening of oil pan bolts prevents leaks.

  • Clean the oil pan and engine block mating surfaces.
  • Apply RTV sealant to the oil pan flange (if required).
  • Install the oil pan bolts by hand.
  • Tighten the bolts in a criss-cross pattern to the specified torque.
  • Check all bolts for proper torque.
View full procedure

Intake Manifold Bolt Tightening Procedure (2.4L)

Procedure for tightening the intake manifold bolts. Ensures proper sealing.

  • Position the intake manifold correctly.
  • Install the bolts by hand.
  • Tighten the bolts in the correct sequence to the specified torque.
  • Check all bolts for proper torque.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Excessive Oil Consumption 2.4L Engine

2019-05-15

Some 2015-2017 Acura TLX vehicles with the 2.4L engine may experience excessive oil consumption. This can be exacerbated by improperly tightened cylinder head bolts or excessive crankcase pressure.

2015-2017

Resolution: Inspect cylinder head bolts and piston rings. Perform oil consumption test.

Engine Mount Bolt Loosening

2020-01-20

Certain 2018-2020 Acura TLX vehicles may experience engine mount bolt loosening over time due to vibrations. Check torque periodically and replace hardware if it is showing damage.

2018-2020

Resolution: Re-torque engine mount bolts to specification. Inspect for damage to bolt threads.

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
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Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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  • All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
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