Acura ZDX 2010-2013 Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications
Comprehensive list of torque specifications for all suspension bolts on the 2010-2013 Acura ZDX. Includes front and rear suspension components, control arms, struts, and more.
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 Suspension
Torque specifications for front suspension components.
1 Strut/Shock Absorber Mounting Bolts
M12 x 1.25
Strut/Shock Absorber Mounting Bolts
M12 x 1.25Torque Value
Important Notes
2 Control Arm Bolts
M14 x 1.5
Control Arm Bolts
M14 x 1.5Torque Value
Important Notes
3 Lower Ball Joint Pinch Bolt
M10 x 1.25
Lower Ball Joint Pinch Bolt
M10 x 1.25Torque Value
Important Notes
4 Ball Joint Nut
M12 x 1.25
Ball Joint Nut
M12 x 1.25Torque Value
Important Notes
5 Tie Rod End Nut
M12 x 1.25
Tie Rod End Nut
M12 x 1.25Torque Value
Important Notes
6 Sway Bar Link Nut
M10 x 1.25
Sway Bar Link Nut
M10 x 1.25Torque Value
Important Notes
7 Upper Control Arm Bolts
M12 x 1.25
Upper Control Arm Bolts
M12 x 1.25Torque Value
Important Notes
Rear Suspension
Torque specifications for rear suspension components.
1 Trailing Arm/Lateral Link Bolts
M14 x 1.5
Trailing Arm/Lateral Link Bolts
M14 x 1.5Torque Value
Important Notes
Sway Bar
Torque specifications for sway bar components.
1 Sway Bar Bracket Mounting Bolts
M8 x 1.25
Sway Bar Bracket Mounting Bolts
M8 x 1.25Torque Value
Important Notes
Wheel Hub
Torque specifications for wheel hub and bearing components.
1 Wheel Hub/Bearing Mounting Bolts
M12 x 1.5
Wheel Hub/Bearing Mounting Bolts
M12 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 is using the correct torque important for suspension bolts?
Why is using the correct torque important for suspension bolts?
Using the correct torque specifications ensures proper clamping force, preventing bolts from loosening due to vibration and stress. Under-torquing can cause components to shift or separate, leading to instability and potential failure. Over-torquing can stretch or break the bolts, damaging threads and compromising the integrity of the suspension system. This can cause accelerated wear on suspension components.
Q2 What happens if I don't have a torque wrench?
What happens if I don't have a torque wrench?
While a torque wrench is essential for accurate tightening, not having one increases the risk of improper tightening. If you don't have access to a torque wrench, it's strongly recommended to avoid suspension work, as you can damage the suspension components, or the integrity of the car and endanger yourself. Consider having the work done by a professional who has the right tools.
Q3 Can I reuse suspension bolts?
Can I reuse suspension bolts?
Generally, it's best practice to replace any bolt that has been torqued to yield or has visible damage. Suspension bolts are critical and should not be reused unless they meet all manufacturer specifications. If reusing, ensure the bolts are clean and free from damage before re-installation. Always consult the repair manual for your vehicle for specific recommendations.
Q4 Should I apply anti-seize to suspension bolts?
Should I apply anti-seize to suspension bolts?
While anti-seize can prevent corrosion and ease removal in the future, it can also alter the torque reading. If you must use anti-seize, reduce the specified torque value by approximately 20-25% to compensate for the reduced friction. Always verify and torque all the bolts as described within the torque specifications provided by the manufacture
Q5 How often should I check the torque on my suspension bolts?
How often should I check the torque on my suspension bolts?
It is advisable to check suspension bolt torque every 6 months or after significant suspension work. For a new setup you should check after driving the car for 100-200 miles, or 200-300 km. After each torque check, and every 6 months, you should check again after the car was driven to make sure that bolts are not loosened.
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 1/2 inch drive torque wrench is essential for applying accurate torque to suspension fasteners.
- Wide torque range (e.g., 20-150 ft-lbs)
- Accurate calibration
- Click-type mechanism
Torque Wrench (3/8 inch Drive)
A 3/8 inch drive torque wrench is useful for smaller suspension fasteners with lower torque requirements.
- Lower torque range (e.g., 5-80 ft-lbs)
- Accurate calibration
- Click-type mechanism
Socket Set (Metric)
A comprehensive set of metric sockets, including deep sockets, is needed to access various suspension bolts.
- Standard and deep sockets
- Sizes ranging from 10mm to 24mm
- Durable construction
Wrench Set (Metric)
A set of metric wrenches is helpful for holding nuts while tightening bolts.
- Open-end and box-end wrenches
- Sizes ranging from 10mm to 24mm
- Durable construction
Service Procedures
Front Suspension Lower Control Arm Bolt Torque Procedure
This procedure outlines how to properly torque the bolts securing the front lower control arm to the subframe and knuckle.
- Raise and support the vehicle safely using jack stands.
- Locate the front lower control arm bolts.
- Using the correct size socket and torque wrench, torque the subframe mounting bolts to 74 ft-lbs.
- Torque the knuckle mounting bolt to 51 ft-lbs.
- Double check the torque of each bolt.
- Lower the vehicle.
Rear Suspension Upper Control Arm Bolt Torque Procedure
This procedure details the proper torque for the bolts attaching the rear upper control arm to the chassis and knuckle.
- Raise and support the vehicle safely using jack stands.
- Locate the rear upper control arm bolts.
- Using the correct size socket and torque wrench, torque the chassis mounting bolts to 54 ft-lbs.
- Torque the knuckle mounting bolt to 51 ft-lbs.
- Double check the torque of each bolt.
- Lower the vehicle.
Rear Suspension Lower Control Arm Bolt Torque Procedure
This procedure details the proper torque for the bolts attaching the rear lower control arm to the chassis and knuckle.
- Raise and support the vehicle safely using jack stands.
- Locate the rear lower control arm bolts.
- Using the correct size socket and torque wrench, torque the chassis mounting bolts to 74 ft-lbs.
- Torque the knuckle mounting bolt to 51 ft-lbs.
- Double check the torque of each bolt.
- Lower the vehicle.
Front Stabilizer Bar End Link Bolt Torque Procedure
This procedure details the proper torque for the bolts attaching the front stabilizer bar end links.
- Raise and support the vehicle safely using jack stands.
- Locate the front stabilizer bar end link bolts.
- Using the correct size socket and torque wrench, torque the upper and lower end link bolts to 40 ft-lbs.
- Double check the torque of each bolt.
- Lower the vehicle.
Technical Service Bulletins
Suspension Noise and Loose Fasteners
2012-05-15Reports of suspension noise and loose fasteners on early production models.
Resolution: Inspect all suspension fasteners and torque to specified values. Replace any damaged hardware.
Wheel Alignment After Suspension Work
2013-01-20Procedure for proper wheel alignment after performing suspension work
Resolution: Following suspension work, a full four wheel alignment should be performed.
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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.