Volkswagen Volkswagen Touareg 2011-2018 Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Volkswagen Volkswagen Touareg 2011-2018

Volkswagen Volkswagen Touareg 2011-2018 Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed torque specifications for suspension bolts on the 2011-2018 Volkswagen Touareg, including front and rear suspension components.

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

Strut Shock Absorber

This subsystem includes bolts that secure the strut or shock absorber to the vehicle's chassis and suspension components. Proper torque ensures alignment, ride quality, and suspension functionality.

1

Strut/Shock Absorber Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
66 ft-lbs (90 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure bolts are tightened evenly to prevent misalignment.
2

Upper Strut Mount Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (25 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on typical M8 bolt torque specifications.
3

Lower Shock Absorber Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
66 ft-lbs (90 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure bolts are tightened evenly to prevent misalignment.

Control Arms

This subsystem includes bolts and nuts that secure the control arms and ball joints to the chassis and steering knuckle. Proper torque ensures stability, alignment, and smooth suspension movement.

1

Control Arm Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
74 ft-lbs (100 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure bolts are tightened evenly to prevent misalignment.
2

Ball Joint Nut

M12 x 1.25
Torque Value
44 ft-lbs (60 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the ball joint is properly seated before tightening.

Steering Components

This subsystem includes bolts and nuts that secure the steering rack, tie rod ends, and sway bar links. Proper torque ensures precise steering control and suspension stability.

1

Tie Rod End Nut

M12 x 1.25
Torque Value
44 ft-lbs (60 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the tie rod end is properly seated before tightening.
2

Sway Bar Link Nut

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
44 ft-lbs (60 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on typical M10 bolt torque specifications.
3

Steering Gear/Rack Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
74 ft-lbs (100 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure bolts are tightened evenly to prevent misalignment.

Drivetrain

This subsystem includes bolts and nuts that secure the drive axle, CV joint, and wheel bearing hub. Proper torque ensures driveline stability and prevents vibration or failure.

1

Drive Axle/Half Shaft Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
74 ft-lbs (100 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure bolts are tightened evenly to prevent driveline vibration.
2

CV Joint/Axle Nut

M24 x 1.5
Torque Value
177 ft-lbs (240 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the axle is properly seated before tightening.
3

Wheel Bearing Hub Bolts

M16 x 1.5
Torque Value
148 ft-lbs (200 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure bolts are tightened evenly to prevent bearing failure.

Rear Suspension

This subsystem includes bolts that secure the subframe and trailing arms to the chassis. Proper torque ensures structural integrity and alignment of the rear suspension.

1

Subframe Mounting Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Important Notes
Follow the specified torque sequence to ensure even clamping force.
2

Trailing Arm Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
74 ft-lbs (100 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure bolts are tightened evenly to prevent misalignment.

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 torque specification for the front suspension strut bolts on a 2011-2018 Volkswagen Touareg?

The torque specification for the front suspension strut-to-steering knuckle bolts is typically 90 Nm (66 lb-ft) plus an additional 90-degree turn. Always refer to the vehicle's service manual for the exact specifications, as they may vary depending on the model year and suspension configuration.

Q2

How often should suspension bolts be checked for proper torque?

Suspension bolts should be checked for proper torque during routine maintenance, such as tire rotations or suspension inspections, and after any suspension repair or component replacement. Loose bolts can lead to uneven tire wear, poor handling, or even component failure.

Q3

Can I reuse suspension bolts after removal?

Some suspension bolts, especially stretch bolts, are designed for one-time use and must be replaced after removal. Reusing them can compromise their integrity and lead to failure. Always check the service manual for specific guidance on bolt reuse or replacement.

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 for applying specific torque values to bolts.

  • Adjustable torque settings
  • Calibration certificate included
Learn more

Socket Set

A set of sockets compatible with suspension bolts.

  • Metric sizes
  • Durable chrome vanadium construction
Learn more

Breaker Bar

A long-handled tool for loosening tight bolts.

  • High torque application
  • Ergonomic grip
Learn more
Service Procedures

Front Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications

Procedure for applying correct torque to front suspension bolts.

  • Lift the vehicle and secure it on jack stands.
  • Remove the front wheels to access suspension components.
  • Use a torque wrench to tighten the front lower control arm bolts to 90 Nm + 90°.
  • Tighten the front strut mount bolts to 60 Nm.
  • Reinstall the wheels and lower the vehicle.
View full procedure

Rear Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications

Procedure for applying correct torque to rear suspension bolts.

  • Lift the vehicle and secure it on jack stands.
  • Remove the rear wheels to access suspension components.
  • Use a torque wrench to tighten the rear lower control arm bolts to 110 Nm + 90°.
  • Tighten the rear shock absorber bolts to 70 Nm.
  • Reinstall the wheels and lower the vehicle.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Suspension Bolt Torque Correction

2015-03-15

Incorrect torque application on suspension bolts may lead to premature wear.

2011-2018 Volkswagen Touareg

Resolution: Ensure all suspension bolts are torqued to the manufacturer's specifications using a calibrated torque wrench.

Front Suspension Noise Investigation

2017-08-22

Reports of noise from the front suspension due to improperly torqued bolts.

2014-2017 Volkswagen Touareg

Resolution: Inspect and retorque all front suspension bolts to the specified values.

About the Author

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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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