How Do Lug Bolts Help My Car?

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The wheels of your car allow you to get from point A to point B. However, while not very common, you may have experience with your wheels falling off. What makes this happen? Or a better question may be what fastens your wheels to your car? The answer to that question is a lug bolt. While a lug bolt is small in size, it has the job of keeping the wheels attached to your car. Here are a few important things you should know about lug bolts.

Design

You have probably seen a lug bolt on your wheel, but you might not have known what it was. The lug bolt is a bolt with one rounded or conical end. All lug bolts on a wheel form a set. The set secures the wheel to the threaded wheel stud which is attached to the car's axle. A lug bolt's conical shape is what allows the wheel to center accurately on the axle and reduce the likelihood of the lug loosening. There are many different shapes of lug bolts. Aftermarket and forged rims usually require specific lugs to match their mounting holes. Many times it is required to get new lugs when having new rims put on.

Loose Lug Bolt

It is important to know when you have a loose lug bolt.  Since the main job of a lug is to hold the wheel onto the car, if the wheel does not seem snug to the car, then you may have a loose lug.  Another common issue is the torque is not tight enough. To test the torque, take a torque wrench and try to tighten the lugs. If the lugs are as tight as they can go, then you do not have a loose lug.

Installing Lug Bolts

When you install lug bolts, it is usually in an alternating pattern, commonly known as a star pattern. The star pattern ensures the weight is evenly distributed across the wheel mounting surface. You can use a lug, socket, or impact wrench to start tightening the lug, but for best results, you should do the final tightening with a torque wrench. Using a torque wrench ensures the weight is evenly distributed. The torque varies by car, and wheel manufacturers specify what type of torque is required. It is best to consult these guidelines when installing a lug.

Replace Your Lugs 

You may take your lugs for granted because you weren't really sure what they were. While lug bolts may be small, they play an important role in your car. Without lug bolts, your wheels would not stay on your car properly. The last thing you want is bad or loose lugs. Never hesitate to replace lug bolts when there is a problem with them. For all of your new lug bolt needs contact EZ Accessory. We offer many different types of lug bolts. Check out our selection here.