What to do if you overtightened a suspension bolt
Accidentally over-torquing a suspension bolt creates a major dilemma because replacing a damaged bolt can require buying an entirely new rear crossmember if it is welded in place. Misreading torque spec sheets can result in extreme over-tightening, leaving owners unsure whether the stressed hardware must be replaced or can remain.
What people tried
Every workaround mentioned in the threads below. We haven’t tested any of them — and nobody here is claiming they worked.
- 1Inspecting the bolt for visual deformations, necking, or thread damage, then loosening and re-torquing it to the correct specification
- 2Running with the over-torqued bolt while monitoring it periodically for noises or issues
- 3Lowering the car back onto the ground or lifting the hub up to approximate ride height before torquing.
In their words
Unedited, most upvoted first, each linked to the thread it came from.
“Once the arm is in, do i finger tighten the 3 bolts then jack up the arm? How much do i need to lift the arm before I can torque the bolts?”source ↗
Fuarkistani · r/MechanicAdvice · 1 upvotes
Where this came up
People with this problem also raised
- 2Mechanics overtightening wheel lug nuts with impact wrenches
- 12Why am I paying for broken bolts during a car repair?
- 3Why does my steering feel loose and clunking?
- 4Why is my steering stiff after a CV axle replacement?
- 3Brake parts missing or falling off after service
- 2Mechanic refused to fix rusted control arm and subframe