Acura TSX 2009-2014 Body & Frame Bolt Torque Specifications
This page provides a comprehensive list of torque specifications for various body bolts on the 2009-2014 Acura TSX. Ensure proper fastening by following these guidelines.
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
Body Exterior Panels
Torque specifications for exterior body panels and related components.
1 Hood Hinge Bolts
M8 x 1.25
Hood Hinge Bolts
M8 x 1.25Torque Value
Important Notes
2 Fender Bolts
M6 x 1.0
Fender Bolts
M6 x 1.0Torque Value
Important Notes
3 Bumper Mounting Bolts
M8 x 1.25
Bumper Mounting Bolts
M8 x 1.25Torque Value
Important Notes
4 Tail Light Housing Mounting Bolts
M5 x 0.8
Tail Light Housing Mounting Bolts
M5 x 0.8Torque Value
Important Notes
5 Headlight Housing Mounting Bolts
M5 x 0.8
Headlight Housing Mounting Bolts
M5 x 0.8Torque Value
Important Notes
Body Doors
Torque specifications for door components.
1 Door Hinge Bolts
M10 x 1.25
Door Hinge Bolts
M10 x 1.25Torque Value
Important Notes
2 Door Latch Striker Bolts
M8 x 1.25
Door Latch Striker Bolts
M8 x 1.25Torque Value
Important Notes
Body Interior
Torque specifications for interior body components.
1 Seat Mounting Bolts
M10 x 1.25
Seat Mounting Bolts
M10 x 1.25Torque Value
Important Notes
2 Dashboard/Instrument Panel Mounting Bolts
M6 x 1.0
Dashboard/Instrument Panel Mounting Bolts
M6 x 1.0Torque Value
Important Notes
Body Fuel System
Torque specifications for fuel system components attached to the body.
1 Fuel Tank Strap Bolts
M10 x 1.5
Fuel Tank Strap Bolts
M10 x 1.5Torque Value
Important Notes
2 Fuel Filler Neck Bolts
M6 x 1.0
Fuel Filler Neck Bolts
M6 x 1.0Torque Value
Important Notes
Body Misc
Torque specifications for miscellaneous body components.
1 Inner Fender Liner Bolts/Fasteners
Various - Hand Tighten
Inner Fender Liner Bolts/Fasteners
Various - Hand TightenTorque 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 is it important to use the correct torque specifications for body bolts?
Why is it important to use the correct torque specifications for body bolts?
Using the correct torque specification is critical to ensure proper clamping force and prevent damage. Over-tightening can strip threads, deform components, or cause cracking. Under-tightening can lead to fasteners loosening over time, resulting in noise, vibration, and potential component failure. For example, over-tightening a fender bolt could dent the fender, while under-tightening could cause it to rattle.
Q2 What happens if I don't have a torque wrench?
What happens if I don't have a torque wrench?
While using a torque wrench is highly recommended, you can still achieve a decent approximation without one by using a proper socket and a ratchet with a good feel for resistance, and avoid over-tightening. Remember that under-tightening is better than over-tightening in this scenario. If you cannot obtain a torque wrench, it is best to consult a professional mechanic and ask for them to torque them to spec, especially with critical components.
Q3 Are the torque specifications different for different body panels?
Are the torque specifications different for different body panels?
Yes, torque specifications often vary based on the material and function of the body panel and the size and type of the bolt. For example, bolts securing a door panel may have a lower torque spec than bolts securing a bumper. Always consult the correct documentation for each specific bolt.
Q4 What is the difference between lb-ft and Nm?
What is the difference between lb-ft and Nm?
lb-ft (pound-feet) and Nm (Newton-meters) are both units of torque measurement. lb-ft is commonly used in the United States, while Nm is the standard unit in many other countries. These units can be converted between each other. 1 lb-ft is approximately 1.356 Nm. Ensure your torque wrench is set to the correct units for the given specification.
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 (1/2 inch drive)
A torque wrench is essential for accurately tightening bolts to the specified torque values. A 1/2 inch drive is suitable for most body panel fasteners.
- Click-type mechanism for accurate torque application
- Range suitable for common body panel torque values (e.g., 10-100 ft-lbs)
Torque Wrench (3/8 inch drive)
A 3/8 inch drive torque wrench is useful for smaller body bolts or tighter spaces where a 1/2 inch drive wrench may not fit.
- Click-type mechanism for accurate torque application
- Range suitable for smaller body panel torque values (e.g., 5-30 ft-lbs)
Socket Set (Metric)
A comprehensive set of metric sockets in various sizes is needed to fit the different bolt heads used on the TSX body.
- Variety of socket sizes (e.g., 8mm, 10mm, 12mm, 14mm)
- Durable construction
Extension Bars (Various Lengths)
Extension bars help reach bolts in recessed areas, allowing for proper torque application.
- Multiple lengths for different access needs
- Durable Construction
Service Procedures
Front Bumper Cover Removal and Installation
This procedure outlines the removal and reinstallation of the front bumper cover, including proper torque specs for the associated fasteners.
- Remove fasteners (screws, bolts, clips) securing the bumper cover. Note their location.
- Carefully detach the bumper cover from the vehicle body.
- Inspect all mounting points and fasteners.
- Position the bumper cover correctly, aligning all attachment points.
- Reinstall the fasteners, tightening them to the specified torque values. Follow the proper tightening sequence.
- Re-check the torque values after installation.
Rear Bumper Cover Removal and Installation
This procedure outlines the removal and reinstallation of the rear bumper cover, including proper torque specs for the associated fasteners.
- Remove fasteners (screws, bolts, clips) securing the bumper cover. Note their location.
- Carefully detach the bumper cover from the vehicle body.
- Inspect all mounting points and fasteners.
- Position the bumper cover correctly, aligning all attachment points.
- Reinstall the fasteners, tightening them to the specified torque values. Follow the proper tightening sequence.
- Re-check the torque values after installation.
Side Skirt Removal and Installation
This procedure outlines the removal and reinstallation of the side skirts, including proper torque specs for the associated fasteners.
- Remove fasteners (screws, bolts, clips) securing the side skirt. Note their location.
- Carefully detach the side skirt from the vehicle body.
- Inspect all mounting points and fasteners.
- Position the side skirt correctly, aligning all attachment points.
- Reinstall the fasteners, tightening them to the specified torque values. Follow the proper tightening sequence.
- Re-check the torque values after installation.
Fender Removal and Installation
This procedure outlines the removal and reinstallation of a front fender, including proper torque specs for the associated fasteners.
- Remove fasteners (screws, bolts) securing the fender. Note their location.
- Carefully detach the fender from the vehicle body.
- Inspect all mounting points and fasteners.
- Position the fender correctly, aligning all attachment points.
- Reinstall the fasteners, tightening them to the specified torque values. Follow the proper tightening sequence.
- Re-check the torque values after installation.
Technical Service Bulletins
Loose Body Panel Fasteners
2012-05-15Some 2009-2011 TSX models may experience loose body panel fasteners due to inadequate factory torque application.
Resolution: Inspect all body panel fasteners and tighten to the specified torque values. Use a calibrated torque wrench for accurate tightening.
Corrosion Issues Around Body Bolts
2013-11-20Some 2010-2014 TSX models may develop corrosion around body bolt locations in areas exposed to road salts and moisture.
Resolution: Clean affected area, apply rust inhibitor, and reinstall bolts to the correct torque spec. Consider using a rust inhibitor on the bolt threads.
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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.