The 2018 Ford Edge is a popular mid-size SUV known for its stylish design, advanced technology, and robust performance. To ensure your vehicle operates safely and efficiently, it’s crucial to understand the importance of wheel torque specifications. Proper wheel torque helps maintain the integrity of your wheels and tires, prevents damage to wheel studs and brake components, and ensures a safe driving experience. In this blog, we will explore what wheel torque is, the recommended torque specifications for the 2018 Ford Edge, and tips for properly tightening your wheels.
What is Wheel Torque?
Wheel torque refers to the amount of rotational force applied to the lug nuts or bolts that secure the wheel to the vehicle. This force is measured in pound-feet (lb-ft) or Newton-meters (Nm). Proper torque ensures that the wheels are securely attached to the vehicle, preventing them from coming loose while driving and ensuring even distribution of pressure across the wheel and hub assembly.
Importance of Correct Wheel Torque
- Safety: Properly torqued wheels reduce the risk of the wheel coming off while driving, which can lead to accidents.
- Prevents Damage: Over-tightening or under-tightening lug nuts can cause damage to the wheel studs, brake rotors, and the wheel itself.
- Even Pressure Distribution: Correct torque ensures even pressure distribution, preventing warping of the brake rotors and maintaining optimal brake performance.
Recommended Wheel Torque Specifications for the 2018 Ford Edge
For the 2018 Ford Edge, Ford recommends the following torque specifications for the lug nuts:
- Torque Specification: 100 lb-ft (135 Nm)
It’s essential to follow these specifications precisely to ensure the wheels are securely attached without causing damage to the wheel studs or brake components.
Tools Needed for Proper Wheel Torque
To accurately torque the wheels on your 2018 Ford Edge, you will need the following tools:
- Torque Wrench: A torque wrench allows you to apply a specific amount of force to the lug nuts. This is crucial for achieving the recommended torque specification.
- Socket Set: Ensure you have the correct size socket that fits the lug nuts on your Ford Edge. Typically, a 19mm or 21mm socket is used.
- Breaker Bar or Lug Wrench: These tools help to initially loosen or tighten the lug nuts before final torquing with a torque wrench.
- Jack and Jack Stands: These are necessary for lifting the vehicle and securing it safely while working on the wheels.
Steps for Properly Torquing Your Wheels
Follow these steps to ensure your wheels are torqued correctly on your 2018 Ford Edge:
1. Prepare Your Vehicle
- Park your vehicle on a flat, level surface.
- Engage the parking brake to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
- Use a jack to lift the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel
- Use a breaker bar or lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts slightly before lifting the vehicle. Do not remove them completely at this stage.
- Lift the vehicle and remove the lug nuts completely, then take off the wheel.
3. Install the Wheel
- Place the wheel back onto the hub, ensuring it is seated properly.
- Hand-tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even seating.
4. Torque the Lug Nuts
- Set your torque wrench to the recommended torque specification of 100 lb-ft (135 Nm).
- Tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure distribution. This means tightening in a sequence where each nut is opposite the previous one, ensuring the wheel is seated evenly on the hub.
5. Double-Check Your Work
- Once all lug nuts are torqued to the correct specification, go around and check each one again to ensure none have been missed or are under-tightened.
6. Lower the Vehicle
- Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground using the jack.
- Give the lug nuts a final check with the torque wrench to ensure they are still properly torqued after the vehicle’s weight is on the wheels.
Tips for Maintaining Proper Wheel Torque
Regular Inspections
Periodically check the torque on your wheels, especially after driving for the first 50-100 miles on new wheels or after a wheel has been removed and reinstalled. Vibrations and the settling of parts can sometimes cause lug nuts to loosen slightly.
Clean Surfaces
Ensure that the contact surfaces between the wheel, hub, and lug nuts are clean and free from rust, dirt, or debris. This ensures proper seating and accurate torque readings.
Avoid Over-Tightening
Using an impact wrench to tighten lug nuts can easily result in over-tightening. Always use a torque wrench for the final tightening to the recommended specification.
Replace Damaged Lug Nuts or Studs
If you notice any damage or wear on your lug nuts or wheel studs, replace them immediately. Damaged components can lead to improper torque and potential wheel failure.
Conclusion
Proper wheel torque is essential for the safe and efficient operation of your 2018 Ford Edge. By following the recommended torque specifications and using the right tools, you can ensure your wheels are securely attached and prevent damage to your vehicle’s components. Regular maintenance and checks will help keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely, providing peace of mind while driving. Remember, always consult your owner’s manual or a professional mechanic if you are unsure about any aspect of wheel torque and maintenance.