Is Honda bolts metric or sae?
In short, Honda uses metric bolts across its modern vehicles, rather than SAE sizes. Typical fasteners range from M6 for small hardware up to M12 for larger engine and chassis bolts, and wheel studs are also metric (commonly M12x1.5).
Why the metric standard is used
Honda is a Japanese automaker whose parts standards align with global industry practice for most contemporary vehicles. Metric fasteners simplify sourcing, maintenance, and cross-model service, and Honda’s official manuals and parts catalogs consistently list metric sizes for fasteners across engines, transmissions, suspensions, and body components.
Where you’ll encounter metric hardware on a Honda
The following list highlights common areas where metric fasteners appear, reflecting Honda’s standardization across models.
- Engine and cylinder head fasteners (typically in the M8–M12 range, with smaller bolts as M6 in some components).
- Valve cover, intake, and exhaust manifold bolts (usually metric, often M6–M8, depending on the part).
- Engine mount and timing cover bolts (commonly M8–M12).
- Transmission, subframe, and differential bolts (generally M8–M12).
- Suspension components and steering hardware (control arms, sway bar links, etc., typically M8–M12).
- Wheel assemblies (wheel studs are metric, commonly M12 with corresponding metric lug nuts).
In practice, most of the hardware you touch on a modern Honda will be metric, from the under-hood fasteners to the bolts securing the subframe and suspension. Always verify sizes against the specific model year and engine family in the official service manual or parts catalog.
Exceptions and practical tips
There are rare exceptions, especially on very old models, market-specific variants, or aftermarket components where non-metric fasteners might appear. For the vast majority of modern Hondas, metric hardware is the standard. When in doubt, consult the owner’s manual, Honda service documentation, or a trusted parts supplier to confirm the correct bolt size and thread pitch.
How to verify and replace bolts safely
To ensure you use the correct fastener, follow these steps: check the exact bolt size in the service manual for your model, compare the bolt head size and thread pitch with an existing fastener, use a thread gauge or caliper to measure, and replace with the same grade and coating (e.g., metric Grade 8.8, 10.9, or as specified). If you cannot confirm, seek assistance from a professional or refer to official Honda torque specs and fastener lists.
Summary
Honda predominantly uses metric bolts across its modern vehicles, aligning with industry standards for Japanese and global automakers. Sizes span from small M6 fasteners to larger M12 components, with wheel hardware also metric. While rare exceptions can occur on very old or market-specific models, always verify with the model-year service manual or parts catalog to ensure you replace fasteners with the correct metric size and grade.
What type of bolts do Hondas use?
Yes, almost all Honda bolts are metric. For example, the most common metric thread sizes of Honda bolts are M12x1. 5mm and M14x1. 5mm.
Does Honda use SAE or metric?
Honda vehicles use metric fasteners, including most bolt sizes like the common M12x1.5, and their tools, such as socket sizes like 19mm, are based on millimeters. While some power output figures may be reported using SAE net standards, the physical hardware on the vehicle itself is metric.
- Metric is standard: Honda's design and engineering are primarily based on the metric system, so virtually all bolts, nuts, and other fasteners will be metric-sized.
- Common sizes: You will most frequently encounter metric sizes like 12x1.5mm for smaller cars (Civic, Accord) and 14x1.5mm for larger models (Pilot, Odyssey, Ridgeline).
- Tool requirements: This means you will need a set of metric sockets and wrenches, not SAE (inch-based) ones, to work on a Honda. For example, an M12x1.5 bolt will require a 19mm socket.
- JIS screws: Some older models and specific screws may use Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS) metric sizes, which can have slightly different dimensions than ISO metric sizes and require the correct JIS screwdrivers for proper fit and to avoid damage.
Are car bolts sae or metric?
SAE Bolt Grades: The standards for bolt strength grades in the U.S. They are set according to a system developed by the SAE. SAE stands for Society of Automotive Engineers. The SAE marking system uses raised dashes on the bolt head. The dashes are used to indicate strength.
How to tell if a bolt is sae or metric?
In SAE systems, you'll see markings like '1/2-13'—meaning a half-inch bolt with 13 threads per inch. Metric equivalents use marks like 'M10-1.5', showing a 10mm bolt with 1.5mm between threads. These markings often appear alongside other information.
