How much torque do you need for a strut top nut?

There's no universal torque for a strut top nut. The exact specification depends on your vehicle and its suspension design. In general, many passenger cars fall in the 25–60 Nm range (about 18–45 ft-lbs), but you must verify the precise value from the manufacturer’s service manual or OEM specifications for your exact model.

Why torque matters for the strut top nut

The strut top nut secures the strut rod to the upper mount in the suspension tower. Proper torque ensures the correct preload and bearing engagement, which affects ride quality, steering response, and long-term reliability. Under-tightening can allow unwanted movement and clunking, while over-tightening risks damaging the nut, threads, or strut mount and can alter alignment. After installation, many systems benefit from a brief suspension cycle and a re-check of torque if the manual calls for it.

Typical ranges and what factors change them

Although there is a common ballpark, the exact torque varies by model and setup. The following factors commonly determine the precise specification:

Examples by vehicle class

In practice, compact cars often sit toward the lower end of the range, while mid-size sedans and SUVs may require higher torque due to larger mounts and stiffer bearings. Always rely on the exact specification for your vehicle rather than a general guideline.

• Vehicle make, model, and year (OEM specs vary widely).


• Strut type and top-mount design (e.g., MacPherson vs. multi-link; bearing vs. fixed mounts).


• Thread size and material of the nut and stud.


• Locking mechanism and any required thread locker or hardware.


• Whether you’re using OEM parts or aftermarket struts with their own torque specs.


• Whether tightening is done with the spring seated and under load as specified by the manual.

Because these variables can change the required torque, the exact value must come from the manufacturer’s specification for your configuration. If you’re unsure, consult a dealership or a qualified technician.

How to find the exact torque specification for your vehicle

To avoid guesswork, follow these steps to locate the precise torque for your strut top nut:

1. Identify your exact vehicle model, year, and trim, since specs can differ within the same model line.


2. Open the official service manual or factory repair documentation for your model; search for "strut top nut torque" or "tower nut torque."


3. If you don’t have the manual, check reputable databases or manufacturer support pages; some OEM tech bulletins publish torque values.


4. For aftermarket struts or kits, refer to the installation guide included with the kit for the torque spec and any special procedures.


5. Use a calibrated torque wrench and apply torque as described by the manual; re-torque after settling if the manual specifies this step.

With the exact specification in hand, you can torque the strut top nut confidently and ensure correct preload and long-term reliability.

Common mistakes to avoid

Avoid these missteps that can compromise suspension integrity or safety:

• Using a generic or incorrect torque value instead of the model-specific spec.


• Skipping or misapplying thread locker or locking mechanisms when required.


• Not re-checking torque after the suspension has settled or after a short test drive.


• Relying solely on impact tools without verifying torque with a torque wrench.


• Installing aftermarket parts without confirming compatibility and torque requirements.

Sticking to the manufacturer’s spec and procedure minimizes risk and helps maintain proper suspension function and safety.

Summary

There is no universal torque for a strut top nut. The correct value depends on your vehicle and its strut design. Always consult the exact OEM specification for your model, follow any installation and pre-load instructions, and re-check torque after settling if required. When in doubt, seek professional assistance to avoid damage to the strut mount, bearing, or alignment.

How much torque does a strut nut need?

Strut nut torque specifications vary widely by vehicle and component, so always consult your vehicle's service manual. General specifications for a top strut mount nut often fall within a range, but it's best to confirm with your vehicle's service manual for the exact spec. For example, a common spec is around 474747 ft-lbs, while other applications may require different values.
 
This video demonstrates how to tighten strut and shock top nuts: 57sVorshlagYouTube · Oct 31, 2016
Factors that influence torque specs

• Vehicle and component: Different manufacturers have different specifications for their struts and mounting hardware. 
• Nut size: The size of the nut is a major factor. For example, a top nut may have a torque of 343434 ft-lbs for an M12 nut and 545454 ft-lbs for an M14 nut. 
• Hardware type: The type of hardware, such as OEM vs. aftermarket, can also affect the torque specification. 
• Strut type: Some specialized suspension components may have their own specific torque requirements, such as a cartridge nut that requires 130130130 Nm of torque. 

Important considerations

• Consult the service manual: Always refer to your vehicle's service manual for the correct torque specification. 
• Measure the nut: If you need to find the specification but are unsure, measure the diameter of your top nut or the threaded rod to determine the nut size (e.g., M12, M14). 
• Do not overtighten: Be careful not to overtighten the nut, as this could damage the strut or other components. 
• Use a torque wrench: Use a torque wrench to ensure you tighten the nut to the correct specification. 
• For top mount nuts: After applying the correct torque, you may need to tighten the nut an additional half to one full turn, depending on the vehicle's design and manufacturer recommendations. 

What is the torque on the upper shock mount?

The upper and lower shock mount bolts MUST BE TIGHTENED to a torque value of 210 to 235 ft-lbs (285 to 319 N•m). If the shock mount bolts are not properly tightened, failure of the shock absorber may occur that could damage the suspension and/or its components.

How to tighten top nut on strut?

To tighten a strut's top nut, you must hold the center rod steady with one tool while turning the nut with another to prevent the rod from spinning. Use a specialized tool or an open-ended wrench set to hold the center rod, and a separate wrench or socket to tighten the nut, ideally with a torque wrench to the manufacturer's specification. Avoid using pliers or impact wrenches, as they can damage the strut and lead to leaks or poor performance.
 
This video demonstrates how to hold the strut shaft to tighten the top nut: 1mMotordyne G35YouTube · Aug 17, 2020
Step 1: Secure the strut shaft 

• Use a specialized tool: If available, use a strut nut socket set with an integrated hex key to hold the shaft while you tighten the nut. 
• Use an open-ended wrench set: Insert a smaller open-ended wrench (e.g., 9mm) through the opening of the larger wrench (e.g., 19mm) to grip the top of the shaft and hold it still. 
• Look for a notched or flat area: Some shafts have a machined shoulder or a flat spot near the top that you can hold with a wrench. 
• Avoid gripping the chrome shaft: Never use vice grips or pliers on the shiny chrome rod, as this will scratch it and cause leaks. 

Step 2: Tighten the top nut 

• Apply the correct torque: Use a torque wrench to tighten the nut to the manufacturer's specified torque. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the strut. 
• Ensure proper loading: For a final torque, the vehicle should have its weight on the wheels or a similar load that simulates the car's weight on the strut. 
• Use an impact wrench with caution: While an impact wrench can be used for removal, it can easily over-torque and damage the strut when tightening. If you must use one, use it for short bursts and be very careful not to overtighten. 

Step 3: Check and finalize

• Re-torque if necessary: If you hear clunking noises after installation, re-check the torque on the top nut. 
• Ensure correct alignment: After any suspension work, it's crucial to get your car's alignment checked. 

How tight should the top nut on a shock be?

And tighten them in the car buzz buzz buzz. About four or five pulses. If the threads.