TIRE TIPS

WHY YOU NEED TO TORQUE YOUR CAR TIRES

As a vehicle owner, it is important to take the necessary steps to ensure your safety on the road. This includes torquing your tires to the specified torque every time they are installed or replaced. By using a calibrated torque wrench and following the manufacturer’s recommended torque settings, you can help prevent wheel separations and other potentially dangerous situations.

When it comes to tire installation, torquing is an important step that should not be overlooked. Torquing involves tightening the wheel lug nuts or wheel studs to a specific level of tightness, known as specified torque, to ensure the wheel is properly secured to the vehicle. Failure to torque tires correctly can result in wheel separations, which can lead to serious accidents.

When To Torque Tires

So, when should you torque your tires? The answer is simple: every time you install new tires or when you rotate or replace your tires. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommended torque settings for your specific vehicle, which can be found in the owner’s manual or by contacting the manufacturer. Using a calibrated torque wrench to achieve accurate torque is essential to ensuring the right amount of force is applied to the lug nuts or wheel studs.

How To Torque Tires

There are a few methods for achieving accurate torque, including the use of torque sticks or torque-limiting extensions. However, it is important to note that these methods are not a substitute for a calibrated torque wrench. Torque sticks and extensions may provide a general idea of the torque applied, but they cannot guarantee the level of accuracy that a calibrated torque wrench can.

It is important to have your tires installed by a reputable mechanic or tire shop. These professionals will have the necessary equipment and expertise to ensure your tires are properly installed and torqued to the correct specifications. 

By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your vehicle is safe and roadworthy, especially in challenging driving conditions such as winter tires.

Extend The Life Of Your Tires By Maintaining Proper Torque

Torquing your tires to the specified torque is a critical step in tire installation and maintenance. By using a calibrated torque wrench, following the manufacturer’s recommended settings, or having your tires installed by a reputable professional, you can help prevent wheel separations and other dangerous situations on the road.