Subaru Subaru WRX 2014-2021 Body Panel & Frame Bolt Torque Specifications
Subaru Subaru WRX 2014-2021

Subaru Subaru WRX 2014-2021 Body & Frame Bolt Torque Specifications

This page provides detailed torque specifications for the body bolts of the 2014-2021 Subaru WRX, ensuring proper installation and safety.

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

Suspension System

This subsystem includes components that provide support and stability to the vehicle's body, ensuring proper suspension alignment and geometry.

1

Strut/Shock Absorber Mounting Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
56.5 ft-lbs (76.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated average torque value for strut/shock absorber mounting bolts.
2

Control Arm Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
56.5 ft-lbs (76.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated average torque value for control arm bolts.
3

Ball Joint Nut

M16 x 1.5
Torque Value
43.5 ft-lbs (59 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated average torque value for ball joint nut.
4

Tie Rod End Nut

M12 x 1.25
Torque Value
25.5 ft-lbs (34.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated average torque value for tie rod end nut.
5

Sway Bar Link Nut

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
39 ft-lbs (52.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated average torque value for sway bar link nut.

Steering System

This subsystem includes components that provide steering functionality to the vehicle, ensuring proper steering alignment and stability.

1

Steering Gear/Rack Bolts

M16 x 1.5
Torque Value
65 ft-lbs (88 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated average torque value for steering gear/rack bolts.

Body Panel System

This subsystem includes components that provide structural support and alignment to the vehicle's body panels, ensuring proper body panel alignment and preventing damage to surrounding components.

1

Body Mount Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
45 ft-lbs (61 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated average torque value for body mount bolts.
2

Fender Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
12.5 ft-lbs (17 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated average torque value for fender bolts.
3

Hood Hinge Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
17.5 ft-lbs (23.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated average torque value for hood hinge bolts.
4

Trunk Lid Hinge Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
17.5 ft-lbs (23.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated average torque value for trunk lid hinge bolts.
5

Door Hinge Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
17.5 ft-lbs (23.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated average torque value for door hinge bolts.

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 happens if I over-torque the body bolts on my Subaru WRX?

Over-torquing body bolts can lead to stripped threads, warped body panels, or even cracked components. This can compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle and lead to costly repairs. Always use a calibrated torque wrench and follow the manufacturer's specifications.

Q2

How often should I check the body bolt torque on my WRX?

It's a good practice to check the body bolt torque during routine maintenance or after any significant impact or accident. Excessive vibration or off-road driving may also necessitate more frequent checks to ensure bolts remain secure.

Q3

Can I reuse body bolts after removing them?

Subaru recommends replacing body bolts after removal, as they are often torque-to-yield bolts designed for one-time use. Reusing them can result in improper clamping force and potential failure. Always refer to the service manual for replacement recommendations.

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 tool used to apply specific torque to body bolts.

  • Adjustable torque settings
  • Ergonomic handle for ease of use
Learn more

Socket Set

A set of sockets compatible with the body bolts of a Subaru WRX.

  • Includes both metric and standard sizes
  • Durable construction
Learn more

Torque Angle Gauge

A tool used to measure the angle of rotation when applying torque.

  • Digital display for accuracy
  • Compact and lightweight
Learn more
Service Procedures

Body Bolt Torque Application

Detailed steps to correctly apply torque to the body bolts of a Subaru WRX.

  • Identify the correct torque specification for the specific body bolt.
  • Set the torque wrench to the specified torque value.
  • Attach the appropriate socket to the torque wrench.
  • Apply torque to the body bolt in a smooth, controlled motion until the wrench clicks.
  • Verify the torque using a torque angle gauge if required.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Body Bolt Looseness Issue

2020-05-15

Reports of body bolts becoming loose over time in 2014-2021 Subaru WRX models.

2014-2021 Subaru WRX

Resolution: Inspect and re-torque all body bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque values.

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

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