Volkswagen Volkswagen Touareg 2011-2018 Body Panel & Frame Bolt Torque Specifications
Volkswagen Volkswagen Touareg 2011-2018

Volkswagen Volkswagen Touareg 2011-2018 Body & Frame Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed torque specifications for the body bolts of the 2011-2018 Volkswagen Touareg, including proper tightening sequences and recommended 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

Suspension And Steering

This subsystem includes components critical for vehicle stability, handling, and steering precision. Proper torque ensures safety, alignment, and ride quality.

1

Wheel Lug Nuts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
148 ft-lbs (200 N·m)
Important Notes
Always tighten in a star pattern to ensure even clamping force.
2

Strut/Shock Absorber Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
66 ft-lbs (90 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the vehicle is at ride height before torquing.
3

Control Arm Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
74 ft-lbs (100 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the control arm before torquing.
4

Ball Joint Nut

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
44 ft-lbs (60 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the ball joint is properly seated before torquing.
5

Tie Rod End Nut

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
44 ft-lbs (60 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the tie rod end before torquing.
6

Sway Bar Link Nut

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
44 ft-lbs (60 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the sway bar is properly aligned before torquing.
7

Steering Gear/Rack Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
74 ft-lbs (100 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even clamping force.

Fuel System

This subsystem includes components related to fuel storage and delivery. Proper torque ensures fuel system integrity and prevents leaks.

1

Fuel Tank Strap Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
26 ft-lbs (35 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the fuel tank is properly aligned before torquing.
2

Fuel Filler Neck Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
44 ft-lbs (60 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the filler neck is properly aligned before torquing.

Electrical System

This subsystem includes components related to the vehicle's electrical system. Proper torque ensures reliable electrical connections and prevents corrosion.

1

Battery Terminal Nuts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
3 ft-lbs (4 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the terminals are clean and free of corrosion before torquing.

Body And Frame

This subsystem includes components that secure the vehicle's body to the frame and ensure structural integrity. Proper torque prevents misalignment, noise, and ensures safety.

1

Body Mount Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
44 ft-lbs (60 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in a sequence specified by the manufacturer to ensure even clamping force.
2

Seat Belt Anchorage Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
37 ft-lbs (50 N·m)
Important Notes
Critical for passenger safety. Ensure proper alignment before torquing.
3

Door Hinge Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (25 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper door alignment before torquing.
4

Hood Hinge Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (25 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper hood alignment before torquing.
5

Tailgate/Hatch Hinge Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (25 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper tailgate/hatch alignment before torquing.
6

Roof Rack Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the roof rack before torquing.
7

Bumper Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
26 ft-lbs (35 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the bumper before torquing.
8

Fender Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (25 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the fender before torquing.
9

Radiator Support Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (25 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the radiator support before torquing.
10

Suspension Crossmember Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
74 ft-lbs (100 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even clamping force.

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 are the torque specifications for the body bolts on a 2011-2018 Volkswagen Touareg?

The torque specifications for body bolts on a 2011-2018 Volkswagen Touareg vary depending on the specific bolt location. For example, subframe mounting bolts typically require 90 Nm (Newton-meters) plus an additional 90-degree turn, while suspension-related bolts may require 120 Nm. Always refer to the official repair manual or dealership for precise torque values for your specific model and component.

Q2

Can I reuse body bolts after removal?

Volkswagen generally recommends replacing body bolts after removal, especially for critical components like subframe or suspension mounts. These bolts are often designed as torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts, meaning they stretch during installation and may lose their integrity after being removed. Reusing them can compromise safety and performance.

Q3

What happens if I over-torque or under-torque body bolts?

Over-torquing body bolts can lead to stripped threads, damaged components, or even bolt failure, which may cause parts to loosen over time. Under-torquing can result in insufficient clamping force, leading to vibrations, noise, or component misalignment. Both scenarios can compromise vehicle safety and handling.

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 a specific torque to a fastener such as a bolt or nut.

  • Adjustable torque settings
  • Calibrated for accuracy
Learn more

Socket Set

A set of sockets in various sizes to fit different bolts and nuts.

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

Torque Angle Gauge

A tool used to measure the angle of rotation when tightening bolts to achieve the correct torque.

  • Digital display for precision
  • Easy to use
Learn more
Service Procedures

Body Bolt Torque Specification Procedure

Detailed steps to correctly torque the body bolts on a 2011-2018 Volkswagen Touareg.

  • Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface and properly supported.
  • Locate the body bolts that need to be torqued.
  • Clean the bolt threads and the surrounding area to ensure proper torque application.
  • Using a torque wrench, set the torque to the specified value (refer to the vehicle's service manual for exact specifications).
  • Tighten the bolts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even distribution of torque.
  • Use a torque angle gauge to verify the angle of rotation if required.
  • Double-check all bolts to ensure they are properly torqued.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Body Bolt Torque Specification Update

2015-06-15

Updated torque specifications for body bolts on 2011-2018 Volkswagen Touareg models.

2011-2018 Volkswagen Touareg

Resolution: Refer to the updated torque specifications in the service manual and ensure all body bolts are torqued to the new values.

Body Bolt Corrosion Prevention

2017-03-22

Technical bulletin addressing the prevention of body bolt corrosion on 2011-2018 Volkswagen Touareg models.

2011-2018 Volkswagen Touareg

Resolution: Apply a corrosion-resistant coating to the body bolts during installation and periodically inspect for signs of corrosion.

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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