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Are Ford lug nuts metric or SAE?

Ford lug nuts are typically metric, meaning they use the metric system of measurement rather than the SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) system. This is the standard for most modern vehicles, including Ford models.


Metric vs. SAE Lug Nuts


Lug nuts are the threaded fasteners that secure a vehicle's wheels to the wheel hub. The size of the lug nut is determined by the diameter of the threaded portion, which is measured either in the metric system (millimeters) or the SAE system (inches).



  • Metric Lug Nuts: These have a thread diameter measured in millimeters, such as M12 x 1.5 or M14 x 1.5. Metric lug nuts are the more common standard for most global automakers, including Ford.

  • SAE Lug Nuts: These have a thread diameter measured in fractions of an inch, such as 1/2-20 or 9/16-18. SAE lug nuts were more common on older American vehicles, but are less prevalent today.


The choice of metric or SAE lug nuts depends on the vehicle's design and the preferences of the automaker. Ford, like most modern carmakers, has standardized on metric lug nuts for their vehicles.


Identifying Ford Lug Nut Size


To determine the specific size of Ford lug nuts, you can check the owner's manual or look for the size stamped on the lug nut itself. Common Ford lug nut sizes include:



  • M12 x 1.5

  • M14 x 1.5


It's important to use the correct size lug nuts for your Ford vehicle to ensure a secure wheel attachment and safe driving. Using the wrong size lug nuts could lead to wheel separation, which is extremely dangerous.

Do Ford trucks use SAE or metric?


metric
Yes. The mid-90s were a trying time, as Ford seemed to use both, but their metric now (as the entire world should be). Just do some research as to whether you need specialized tools for compressing your calipers.



What year did Ford switch to metric bolts?


Ford started going Metric in 1971; with their mostly metrically-designed 2.4 L four-cylinder engine in their Pinto model, which eventually went into production on their 1974 Pinto model.



What size socket for Ford wheel nuts?


Double Wheel Nut Socket 18.5-19.5mm FITS Ford 19mm Swollen Nuts.



How do you tell if a nut is metric or sae?


If a nut or bolt shows numbers instead of line indentations to indicate their strength grade, it is a metric fastener. However, depending on the fastener's standard, metric nuts can also show a pattern of lines and dots between the circle and the sides of the nuts.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.