Subaru Subaru Crosstrek 2018-present Brake System Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Subaru Subaru Crosstrek 2018-present

Subaru Subaru Crosstrek 2018-present Brake System Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed brake bolt torque specifications for the 2018-Present Subaru Crosstrek, including caliper bracket, caliper slide pin, and brake line fitting torque values.

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

Brake caliper and mounting

Components that secure the brake caliper to the rotor or drum, and attach the brake caliper mounting bracket to the steering knuckle or suspension component.

1

Brake Caliper Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
2

Brake Caliper Mounting Bracket Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
81 ft-lbs (110 N·m)

Brake disc/drum and retaining components

Components that hold the brake disc or drum in place, ensuring proper brake function and preventing disc or drum movement or damage.

1

Brake Disc/Drum Retaining Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
51 ft-lbs (69 N·m)

Wheel and lug nut components

Components that secure the wheel to the hub or wheel bearing, ensuring proper brake function and preventing wheel movement or damage.

1

Wheel Lug Nuts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
89 ft-lbs (120 N·m)
Important Notes
Proper torque of the wheel lug nuts is crucial for brake safety and function.

Brake master cylinder and booster components

Components that secure the brake master cylinder and booster to the brake booster or firewall, ensuring proper brake function and preventing master cylinder or booster movement or damage.

1

Brake Master Cylinder Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Important Notes
Estimated torque values. Consult the vehicle's repair manual or manufacturer's documentation for accurate torque specifications.
2

Brake Booster Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Important Notes
Estimated torque values. Consult the vehicle's repair manual or manufacturer's documentation for accurate torque specifications.

Abs module components

Components that secure the ABS module to the vehicle's frame or suspension component, ensuring proper brake function and preventing ABS module movement or damage.

1

ABS Module Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Important Notes
Estimated torque values. Consult the vehicle's repair manual or manufacturer's documentation for accurate torque specifications.

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

What is the importance of proper torque specs for brake bolts?

Proper torque specs for brake bolts ensure the safety and reliability of the braking system. Over-torquing can damage the threads or strip the bolts, while under-torquing can lead to loose bolts and reduced braking performance. Always refer to the manufacturer's specifications for the correct torque values.

Q2

How often should I check and maintain my brake bolts?

It's recommended to check and maintain your brake bolts every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or as specified in your owner's manual. Inspect the bolts for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage, and re-torque them as needed. Additionally, always clean and lubricate the threads before re-torquing.

Q3

Can I use a torque wrench with a socket extension to torque my brake bolts?

Yes, but be cautious when using a torque wrench with a socket extension. The extension can add flexibility to the wrench, which may affect the accuracy of the torque reading. Always use a high-quality torque wrench and extension, and ensure the extension is securely attached to the wrench and socket.

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 applying accurate torque values

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

Socket Set

A set of sockets for removing brake caliper bolts and other hardware

  • Sizes: 10mm, 12mm, 14mm
  • Material: Chrome vanadium steel
Learn more

Brake Caliper Wind-Back Tool

A tool for winding back brake caliper pistons

  • Fits most brake caliper types
  • Easy to use
Learn more
Service Procedures

Brake Caliper Bolt Torque Specification

Procedure for applying correct torque values to brake caliper bolts

  • Loosen brake caliper bolts using a socket wrench
  • Remove brake caliper and rotor
  • Apply new brake pads and reassemble
  • Tighten brake caliper bolts in a star pattern to specified torque value (see table below)
  • Check brake system for leaks and proper function
View full procedure

Brake Rotor Resurfacing and Replacement

Procedure for resurfacing or replacing brake rotors

  • Remove brake caliper and rotor
  • Inspect rotor for excessive wear or warping
  • Resurface or replace rotor as needed
  • Reassemble brake system and tighten bolts to specified torque value
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Brake Caliper Bolt Torque Value Update

2020-02-15

Update to brake caliper bolt torque values for 2018-2020 model year vehicles

2018-2020 Subaru Crosstrek

Resolution: Update torque values to 30 ft-lbs for brake caliper bolts

Brake Rotor Warpage Issue

2019-05-01

Issue with brake rotor warpage on 2018-2019 model year vehicles

2018-2019 Subaru Crosstrek

Resolution: Replace brake rotor with updated part number

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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Technical Information
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