When to retorque your tires and why it's essential

Here’s the crucial car tip most drivers miss after changing their tires: retorquing. This quick, simple step is essential for keeping your wheels secure and avoiding potentially dangerous issues on the road. 

Wondering why it matters? Skipping this step could lead to loose bolts, wobbling wheels, or worse. Don’t take the risk! We’ll break down why retorquing is a must, the dangers of neglecting it, and how to stay safe while keeping your ride in perfect shape. 

What is retorquing?

Retorquing is double-checking that your wheel nuts, bolts, and critical fasteners are properly secured after a tire change or wheel installation. Torque refers to the force applied to tighten these fasteners, ensuring the wheels stay attached to your vehicle safely. 

Why it is important

Keeping your vehicle's wheels secure while driving is essential. After installation, components can settle or compress, causing slight loosening of fasteners. This can lead to potential risks such as: 

• Loose lug nuts: Can cause the wheel to detach while driving 

• Over-tightened lug nuts: Can damage studs, hubs, or brake components 

• Other issues: Vibrations, uneven tire wear, and, in extreme cases, wheel detachment  

Skipping this essential step can lead to serious safety risks, costly repairs, and unnecessary wear and tear on your vehicle. Regularly retorquing your lug nuts helps prevent accidents and keeps your vehicle safe on the road.  

When lug nuts aren’t properly torqued, the consequences can be dangerous. Loose nuts may cause a wheel to detach while driving, putting you and others at risk. On the other hand, over-tightened lug nuts can damage critical components such as wheel studs or brake parts, resulting in expensive repairs.  

Taking the time to ensure correct torque isn’t just a precaution—it’s a key part of maintaining safety and extending the life of your vehicle. 

Securing tires the right way

Retorquing involves tightening lug nuts to your vehicle manufacturer’s specifications using specialized tools, like a torque wrench, to apply the necessary force.  

Mechanics often follow a specific pattern, such as a star or cross shape, to distribute the torque evenly across the wheel. While it’s possible to do this yourself, trusting professionals ensures the job is done right. 

When should I book an appointment? 

Check your car's manual for the correct torque settings for your make and model. After a tire service or installation, be sure to retorque your wheel nuts within 100 kilometres to ensure safety and performance.