2017 Chevy Malibu Lug Nut Torque Specifications
When it comes to maintaining your vehicle, one important aspect to consider is the proper torque specifications for lug nuts. The lug nuts on your 2017 Chevy Malibu play a crucial role in securing the wheels to the vehicle, ensuring your safety on the road. This article will provide you with the recommended lug nut torque specifications for your Chevy Malibu, helping you maintain the integrity of your wheels and tires.
Why Lug Nut Torque Matters
Properly torquing the lug nuts on your vehicle is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures that the wheels are securely fastened to the vehicle, preventing them from coming loose while driving. Loose wheels can lead to accidents and serious injuries. Secondly, over-tightening the lug nuts can cause damage to the wheel studs or the wheel itself, leading to costly repairs. Lastly, maintaining the correct torque specifications helps distribute the load evenly across the wheel, promoting even wear and extending the lifespan of your tires.
Lug Nut Torque Specifications for 2017 Chevy Malibu
The lug nut torque specifications for the 2017 Chevy Malibu vary depending on the trim level and the type of wheels installed on your vehicle. It is important to note that these torque specifications are given in pound-feet (lb. ft) and Newton-meters (Nm). Here is a table summarizing the recommended torque specifications:
| Trim Level | Wheel Type | Torque Specifications (lb. ft / Nm) |
|---|---|---|
| LS | Steel Wheels | 100 lb. ft / 135 Nm |
| LS | Aluminum Wheels | 100 lb. ft / 135 Nm |
| LT | Steel Wheels | 100 lb. ft / 135 Nm |
| LT | Aluminum Wheels | 100 lb. ft / 135 Nm |
| Premier | Aluminum Wheels | 100 lb. ft / 135 Nm |
How to Properly Torque Lug Nuts
Now that you know the recommended torque specifications for your 2017 Chevy Malibu, it’s important to understand how to properly torque the lug nuts. Here are the steps to follow:
- Ensure that your vehicle is parked on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Using a lug wrench or a torque wrench, loosen each lug nut on the wheel by turning them counterclockwise.
- Once all the lug nuts are loose, use a jack to lift the vehicle off the ground, ensuring the wheel is completely off the surface.
- Remove the lug nuts and the wheel from the vehicle.
- Clean the wheel hub and the mounting surface to remove any dirt or debris.
- Place the wheel back onto the wheel hub, aligning the holes with the wheel studs.
- Hand-tighten the lug nuts onto the wheel studs, ensuring they are threaded properly.
- Using a torque wrench, tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern, gradually increasing the torque until you reach the recommended specifications.
- Double-check the torque on each lug nut to ensure they are all properly tightened.
- Lower the vehicle back to the ground and remove the jack.
- Finally, recheck the torque on each lug nut after driving a short distance to ensure they have not loosened.
By following these steps and adhering to the recommended lug nut torque specifications, you can ensure the safety and longevity of your 2017 Chevy Malibu’s wheels and tires. Regularly checking and maintaining the proper torque on your lug nuts is a simple yet crucial aspect of vehicle maintenance that should never be overlooked.
