Why correct wheel nut torque matters: A costly lesson from a Nissan GTR

When it comes to car maintenance, some jobs seem simple enough that people don’t give them much thought. Tightening wheel nuts (or lug nuts) is one of those jobs. Most assume that “tighter is better” — but that’s far from the truth. In fact, not tightening your wheel nuts to the manufacturer’s specified torque can cause serious damage, unnecessary expense, and even compromise your safety.

Recently, we had a Nissan GTR in the workshop that highlighted just how important correct torque really is.

What Happened with the GTR

The car came in for a wheel refurbishment. Once the freshly refurbished wheels were ready to go back on, one of the studs snapped during refitting. On closer inspection, it was clear that the stud had been stretched previously from being over-tightened.

This kind of hidden damage often goes unnoticed until the worst happens. Metal fatigue had weakened the stud, and the simple act of tightening the wheel back on was enough to finish it off. Unfortunately, that meant the hub had to be replaced — not a cheap fix, especially on a high-performance car like the GTR.

Why Torque Settings Matter

Every car manufacturer specifies a torque setting for wheel nuts, and for good reason. Correct torque ensures:

• Safety: Under-tightening can allow the wheel to work loose, while over-tightening can weaken studs and risk failure.

• Longevity: Over-stressing the components can cause premature wear, damage threads, or in this case, snap a stud entirely.

• Serviceability: Wheel nuts done up with the correct torque can be safely and easily removed later. Over-tightened nuts often require excessive force, which risks further damage.

The Right Way to Do It

To avoid problems like this:

• Always use a torque wrench when tightening wheel nuts.

• Check your car’s owner’s manual or workshop guide for the correct torque specification.

• Impact guns can be used safely for refitting, provided the power is reduced or a torque bar is used — but final tightening should always be confirmed with a torque wrench.

• Re-check torque after driving a short distance, especially with new wheels or fresh studs.

The Takeaway

The Nissan GTR hub replacement was a costly reminder that even small details matter. Something as simple as over-tightening wheel nuts caused unnecessary expense and downtime for the owner. Correct torque isn’t just a technical detail — it’s essential for keeping your car safe, reliable, and in top condition.

Next time you’re putting wheels back on your car, take an extra moment to torque them correctly. Your studs, hubs, and wallet will thank you.

Need Help?

At Steel City Wheels, we always ensure wheels are refitted using the correct torque settings — protecting your car and your safety. Whether you’re coming in for a wheel refurbishment or general care, you can trust us to get the details right.