Subaru Subaru BRZ 2013-2021 Drivetrain Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Subaru Subaru BRZ 2013-2021

Subaru Subaru BRZ 2013-2021 Drivetrain Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed drivetrain bolt torque specifications for the 2013-2021 Subaru BRZ, including transmission, differential, and driveshaft bolts.

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

Engine To Transmission

Components that connect the engine to the transmission, ensuring proper power transfer and preventing damage to the engine or transmission.

1

Flywheel Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
52 ft-lbs (70 N·m)

Transmission Mounting

Components that secure the transmission to the engine block or transmission crossmember, maintaining proper transmission alignment and preventing damage to the transmission or surrounding components.

1

Transmission Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
33 ft-lbs (45 N·m)

Transmission Oil Pan

Components that secure the transmission oil pan to the transmission case, preventing oil leaks and ensuring proper transmission lubrication.

1

Transmission Oil Pan Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
7.2 ft-lbs (10 N·m)

Transmission Drain And Fill

Components that allow for transmission fluid changes and maintenance, ensuring a leak-free seal and preventing damage to the transmission.

1

Transmission Drain and Fill Plugs

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
36 ft-lbs (49 N·m)

Drive Axle And Half Shaft

Components that secure the drive axles or half shafts to the transmission or differential, ensuring proper power transfer and preventing damage to the drivetrain.

1

Drive Axle/Half Shaft Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
56 ft-lbs (76 N·m)

Cv Joint And Axle Nut

Components that secure the CV joint to the drive axle or half shaft, maintaining proper joint alignment and preventing damage to the drivetrain.

1

CV Joint/Axle Nut

M20 x 1.5
Torque Value
147 ft-lbs (199 N·m)

Propeller And Drive Shaft

Components that secure the propeller shaft or drive shaft to the transmission or differential, ensuring proper power transfer and preventing damage to the drivetrain.

1

Propeller/Drive Shaft Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
56 ft-lbs (76 N·m)

Differential Drain And Fill

Components that allow for differential fluid changes and maintenance, ensuring a leak-free seal and preventing damage to the differential.

1

Differential Drain/Fill Plug

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
36 ft-lbs (49 N·m)

Differential Cover

Components that secure the differential cover to the differential case, preventing oil leaks and ensuring proper differential lubrication.

1

Differential Cover Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
30 ft-lbs (40 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards.

Transfer Case Mounting

Components that secure the transfer case to the transmission or engine block, maintaining proper transfer case alignment and preventing damage to the drivetrain.

1

Transfer Case Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards.

Transfer Case Drain And Fill

Components that allow for transfer case fluid changes and maintenance, ensuring a leak-free seal and preventing damage to the transfer case.

1

Transfer Case Drain/Fill Plug

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
36 ft-lbs (49 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on industry standards.

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 is it important to follow the recommended torque specs for drivetrain bolts?

Following the recommended torque specs for drivetrain bolts is crucial to ensure proper assembly and prevent damage to the drivetrain components. Over-torquing can lead to stripped threads, while under-torquing can cause loose connections. Consult your owner's manual or a repair manual for the correct torque specs.

Q2

What are the most common drivetrain bolts that require torque specification attention?

The most common drivetrain bolts that require torque specification attention on a 2013-2021 Subaru BRZ are the transmission mounts, engine mounts, and driveshaft bolts. These bolts are critical to the overall performance and safety of the vehicle.

Q3

How often should I check and re-torque drivetrain bolts?

It is recommended to check and re-torque drivetrain bolts every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, or as specified in your owner's manual. Additionally, re-torque after any drivetrain repairs or replacements.

Q4

What are the consequences of not following torque specs for drivetrain bolts?

Not following torque specs for drivetrain bolts can lead to premature wear, damage to components, and potentially catastrophic failure. This can result in costly repairs, reduced performance, and compromised safety.

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

A precision torque wrench for accurate bolt tightening

  • Range: 10-100 ft-lbs
  • Accuracy: ±2%
Learn more

Socket Set

A set of sockets for drivetrain bolt removal and installation

  • Sizes: 10mm, 12mm, 14mm
  • Drive type: 3/8" and 1/2"
Learn more

Breaker Bar

A long-handled breaker bar for added leverage

  • Length: 24"
  • Drive type: 1/2"
Learn more
Service Procedures

Drivetrain Bolt Torque Specification

Procedure for tightening drivetrain bolts to specified torque values

  • Locate the drivetrain bolts to be tightened
  • Clean the bolt threads and surrounding area
  • Apply the recommended torque value using a torque wrench
  • Verify the torque value using a secondary torque wrench
View full procedure

Differential Fluid Change

Procedure for changing the differential fluid

  • Raise the vehicle and support it with jack stands
  • Remove the differential drain plug
  • Drain the differential fluid into a pan
  • Install a new differential drain plug and refill with new fluid
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Drivetrain Bolt Torque Specification Update

2015-02-15

Update to the drivetrain bolt torque specification for 2013-2015 model year BRZ vehicles

2013-2015 BRZ

Resolution: Update the torque specification to 30 ft-lbs for the differential bolts

Differential Noise and Vibration

2018-08-20

Technical bulletin for addressing differential noise and vibration issues on 2017-2018 model year BRZ vehicles

2017-2018 BRZ

Resolution: Inspect and replace the differential bearings and seals as necessary

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

ASE Master Certified Technician with over a decade of hands-on experience in automotive repair and diagnostics.

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