Cadillac SRX 2004-2009 Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Cadillac SRX 2004-2009

Cadillac SRX 2004-2009 Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed torque specifications for all suspension bolts on the 2004-2009 Cadillac SRX. Includes front and rear suspension components.

Updated

Important Information

Safety guidelines and reference information for proper torque application

Quick Reference Guide
ft-lbs → Nm
× 1.356
ft-lbs → kg-m
× 0.138
Nm → ft-lbs
× 0.738
in-lbs → ft-lbs
× 0.083

Common Torque Patterns

Star Pattern

Used for wheels and other circular bolt patterns

Star Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence
Cross Pattern

Used for gaskets and cover plates

Cross Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence
Sequential Pattern

Used for head bolts and other critical components

Sequential Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-tightening

Exceeding the specified torque value can stretch or break fasteners, damage threads, or crack components.

Prevention:

Always use a calibrated torque wrench and follow specifications exactly.

Incorrect Torque Sequence

Tightening bolts in the wrong order can cause uneven pressure distribution and potential leaks or damage.

Prevention:

Follow the manufacturer's specified torque sequence pattern.

Dirty Threads

Dirt, rust, or old thread locker can affect torque readings and proper fastener tension.

Prevention:

Clean and inspect all threads before assembly. Use new thread locker if specified.

Reusing TTY Bolts

Torque-to-yield bolts are designed to stretch and must not be reused.

Prevention:

Always replace TTY bolts with new ones. They are single-use only.

Dry vs. Lubricated

Not accounting for whether torque specs are for dry or lubricated fasteners can lead to incorrect tension.

Prevention:

Check if specs are for dry or lubricated threads. Use specified lubricant when required.

Recommended Tools

Torque Wrench (1/4" Drive)

Range: 2-25 ft-lbs
Small fasteners, delicate components

Torque Wrench (3/8" Drive)

Range: 10-100 ft-lbs
Most common automotive fasteners

Torque Wrench (1/2" Drive)

Range: 30-250 ft-lbs
Large fasteners, wheels

Angle Gauge

Torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts

Torque Wrench Care

  • Calibrate annually or after 5,000 clicks
  • Store at lowest setting
  • Keep clean and lubricated

Search Specifications

Search by component name, bolt size, or description

Torque Calculator

Convert between different torque units

Front Suspension

Torque specifications for bolts related to the front suspension system, including struts, control arms, and steering components.

1

Strut/Shock Absorber Mounting Bolts

M14 x 2.0
Torque Value
81 ft-lbs (110 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the strut assembly to the vehicle's frame/body and potentially the steering knuckle. Ensure proper alignment before tightening.
2

Upper Control Arm Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
65 ft-lbs (88 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts attach the upper control arm to the vehicle's frame or subframe. Estimated value, confirm with service manual.
3

Lower Control Arm Mounting Bolts

M14 x 2.0
Torque Value
85 ft-lbs (115 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the lower control arm to the vehicle's frame or subframe. Ensure proper alignment before tightening.
4

Lower Control Arm to Ball Joint Nut

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
55 ft-lbs (75 N·m)
Important Notes
This nut connects the lower control arm to the ball joint. Estimated value, confirm with service manual.
5

Steering Knuckle/Hub Assembly Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
70 ft-lbs (95 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the steering knuckle/hub assembly to the strut/shock and/or control arm. Estimated value, confirm with service manual.
6

Ball Joint Nut

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
41 ft-lbs (56 N·m)
Important Notes
This nut fastens the ball joint stud to the steering knuckle or control arm. Ensure proper seating before tightening.
7

Tie Rod End Nut

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
This nut secures the tie rod end to the steering knuckle or steering arm. Ensure the tie rod is properly aligned before torquing.

Rear Suspension

Torque specifications for the rear suspension system, including shocks, control arms and related components.

1

Rear Shock Absorber Mounting Bolts

M14 x 2.0
Torque Value
81 ft-lbs (110 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the rear shock absorber assembly to the vehicle's frame/body and potentially the control arm. Ensure proper alignment before tightening.
2

Rear Upper Control Arm Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
65 ft-lbs (88 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts attach the upper control arm to the vehicle's frame or subframe. Estimated value, confirm with service manual.
3

Rear Lower Control Arm Mounting Bolts

M14 x 2.0
Torque Value
85 ft-lbs (115 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the lower control arm to the vehicle's frame or subframe. Ensure proper alignment before tightening.
4

Rear Lower Control Arm to Ball Joint Nut

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
55 ft-lbs (75 N·m)
Important Notes
This nut connects the lower control arm to the ball joint. Estimated value, confirm with service manual.
5

Rear Steering Knuckle/Hub Assembly Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
70 ft-lbs (95 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the steering knuckle/hub assembly to the strut/shock and/or control arm. Estimated value, confirm with service manual.

Sway Bar

Torque specifications for sway bar components, including links and mounting brackets.

1

Sway Bar Link Nut

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
48 ft-lbs (65 N·m)
Important Notes
These nuts connect the sway bar to the suspension components.
2

Sway Bar Mounting Bracket Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
37 ft-lbs (50 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts attach the sway bar mounting brackets to the vehicle's frame/subframe. Ensure brackets are aligned correctly before tightening. Estimated Value.
3

Stabilizer Bar Link to Stabilizer Bar Nut

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
48 ft-lbs (65 N·m)
Important Notes
This nut connects the sway bar link to the sway bar. Ensure proper alignment before tightening. Estimated Value.

Troubleshooting Guide

Common issues, diagnostic steps, and prevention guidelines

Common Issues

Bolt stretching, stripped threads, uneven torque patterns

Loose Components

Symptoms:
  • Rattling or vibration noises
  • Visible movement in components
  • Uneven panel gaps
Solutions:
  • Clean threads and mounting surfaces
  • Replace damaged fasteners
  • Apply proper torque in sequence
  • Use thread locker if specified

Stripped Fasteners

Symptoms:
  • Unable to achieve proper torque
  • Fastener spins freely
  • Visible thread damage
Solutions:
  • Use thread repair kit if appropriate
  • Install thread insert (HeliCoil)
  • Replace component if threaded hole is damaged
  • Upgrade to higher grade fastener if recommended

Overtightened Components

Symptoms:
  • Cracked or deformed parts
  • Broken fasteners
  • Compressed gaskets or seals
Solutions:
  • Replace damaged components
  • Use new fasteners
  • Follow proper torque sequence
  • Verify correct torque specifications

Diagnostic Steps

Visual inspection, torque verification, thread assessment

1

Visual Inspection

Inspect the affected area for any visible signs of damage or wear

  • Check for cracks or deformation
  • Look for signs of excessive wear
  • Verify proper fastener installation
2

Torque Verification

Verify the torque applied to the fasteners

  • Check the torque wrench calibration
  • Verify the torque specification
  • Compare the applied torque to the specification
3

Thread Assessment

Assess the condition of the threads

  • Check for signs of thread damage
  • Verify the thread type and size
  • Check for proper thread engagement

Prevention Guidelines

Best practices, maintenance tips, tool care

Best Practices

  • Always follow the recommended torque specification
  • Use the correct type and size of fasteners
  • Verify the torque wrench calibration regularly

Maintenance Tips

  • Regularly inspect the affected area for signs of wear or damage
  • Replace damaged or worn-out components promptly
  • Keep the work area clean and organized

Tool Care

  • Regularly clean and maintain the torque wrench
  • Store the torque wrench in a dry and secure location
  • Verify the torque wrench calibration before each use

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

Why are correct torque specifications important for suspension bolts?

Correct torque ensures proper clamping force, preventing bolts from loosening over time due to vibration and stress. Under-torqued bolts can lead to component failure and unsafe driving conditions, while over-torqued bolts can damage threads or cause the bolt to break. Using the specified torque also ensures the suspension geometry is maintained as designed.

Q2

What happens if I overtighten a suspension bolt?

Overtightening can stretch or damage the bolt, weakening its structural integrity. This can lead to premature failure or even breakage, especially under load or impact. It can also damage the threaded holes in the components, requiring costly repairs. Overtightening can also crush bushings or distort mounting brackets affecting alignment.

Q3

What happens if I undertighten a suspension bolt?

Undertightened bolts can loosen over time due to road vibration and the constant movement of the suspension. This can cause components to shift or move, resulting in poor handling, uneven tire wear, and potentially leading to premature failure of parts. Loose bolts are also a safety risk.

Q4

Do I need to replace suspension bolts after loosening them?

It's generally recommended to replace suspension bolts if they are torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts, which are designed to stretch when tightened. While not all SRX suspension bolts are TTY, checking the service manual is vital. If they aren't TTY, they can often be reused if they are in good condition but using new bolts is best practice.

Q5

Should I use anti-seize on suspension bolts?

Using anti-seize is generally not recommended for most suspension bolts, as it affects the friction between the threads and can lead to over-tightening if using the specified torque. If using anti-seize, consult a service manual for altered torque specifications. Clean, dry threads are usually sufficient.

Q6

What torque wrench should I use?

Use a properly calibrated torque wrench with the appropriate range for the specified torque values. Using a wrench that does not accurately read the specified torque value can damage components. It's advised to check calibration periodically to ensure accurate readings.

Environmental Considerations

Temperature, humidity, and seasonal effects on torque specifications

Temperature Effects

Includes: High Heat, Cold Weather, Thermal Cycling

Temperature can significantly impact torque values and fastener behavior

Cold Weather

Effects:
  • Increased material brittleness
  • Higher torque required due to thread contraction
  • Reduced thread lubricant effectiveness
Recommendations:
  • Allow components to warm to room temperature when possible
  • Consider using winter-grade thread lubricants
  • Check torque values more frequently during winter months

Hot Weather

Effects:
  • Thermal expansion of components
  • Decreased friction in threads
  • Accelerated lubricant breakdown
Recommendations:
  • Check torque when components are at normal operating temperature
  • Use temperature-resistant thread lockers
  • Consider re-torquing after heat cycles

Humidity and Corrosion

Covers: Rust Prevention, Salt Exposure, Moisture Control

Moisture and corrosion can affect fastener integrity and torque values

High Humidity

Effects:
  • Accelerated corrosion formation
  • Reduced friction coefficient
  • Potential thread seizing
Prevention:
  • Use corrosion-resistant fasteners
  • Apply appropriate anti-seize compounds
  • Maintain proper protective coatings

Salt Exposure

Effects:
  • Rapid corrosion development
  • Thread damage
  • Seized fasteners
Prevention:
  • Regular underbody washing
  • Use of sacrificial anodes where appropriate
  • Application of protective coatings

Seasonal Maintenance

Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter maintenance schedules

Spring

  • Inspect for winter damage
  • Clean and protect exposed fasteners
  • Check torque on critical components

Summer

  • Monitor heat-affected components
  • Check expansion-related loosening
  • Inspect cooling system mounts

Fall

  • Prepare for winter conditions
  • Apply corrosion protection
  • Verify all fasteners are properly torqued

Winter

  • More frequent inspection of critical fasteners
  • Check for salt damage
  • Monitor suspension component torque

Related Resources

Tools, service procedures, and technical bulletins

Recommended Tools

Torque Wrench (1/2 inch drive)

A calibrated torque wrench is essential for accurately tightening suspension fasteners to the manufacturer's specifications.

  • Ability to measure torque in foot-pounds (ft-lbs) or Newton-meters (Nm)
  • 1/2 inch drive for compatibility with common sockets
Learn more

Socket Set (Metric)

A comprehensive set of metric sockets is needed to fit the various bolt and nut sizes used in the SRX suspension.

  • Sizes ranging from 10mm to 24mm
  • 6-point sockets recommended for better grip
Learn more

Wrench Set (Metric)

A comprehensive set of metric wrenches is needed for holding nuts or bolts while tightening, as well as some other areas on the suspension system.

  • Sizes ranging from 10mm to 24mm
  • Open-ended and box-ended wrenches are beneficial
Learn more

Torx Socket Set

A set of Torx sockets will be needed for certain areas of the suspension.

  • Sizes ranging from T20 to T55
  • Will be needed for some upper control arm areas
Learn more

Jack Stands

Safe vehicle support is needed to allow work to be performed. Two or more stands will be required.

  • Ability to support the weight of the SRX
  • Adequate height range for working under the vehicle
Learn more

Vehicle Jack

A jack will be needed to initially lift the vehicle before supporting on jack stands.

  • Ability to lift the weight of the SRX
  • Appropriate height range for lifting vehicle for service
Learn more
Service Procedures

Front Strut Assembly Installation

Procedure for removing and installing front strut assemblies including torque specifications.

  • Loosen lug nuts on the front wheels.
  • Raise the vehicle using a jack and support it securely with jack stands.
  • Remove the front wheel.
  • Disconnect the ABS sensor wiring, brake line, and sway bar end link from the strut assembly.
  • Remove the upper strut mounting nuts.
  • Remove the lower strut mounting bolt.
  • Remove the strut assembly from the vehicle.
  • Install the new strut assembly into the vehicle.
  • Install the lower strut mounting bolt and torque to 125 ft-lbs (169 Nm).
  • Install the upper strut mounting nuts and torque to 60 ft-lbs (81 Nm).
  • Reconnect the ABS sensor wiring, brake line, and sway bar end link.
  • Install the wheel and torque lug nuts to 100 ft-lbs (135 Nm).
  • Lower the vehicle.
View full procedure

Rear Upper Control Arm Installation

Procedure for removing and installing rear upper control arms, including torque specifications.

  • Loosen lug nuts on the rear wheels.
  • Raise the vehicle using a jack and support it securely with jack stands.
  • Remove the rear wheel.
  • Disconnect the shock absorber from the control arm.
  • Remove the upper control arm bolt at the frame side.
  • Remove the upper control arm bolt at the knuckle side.
  • Remove the control arm from the vehicle.
  • Install the new control arm into the vehicle.
  • Install the control arm bolt to the frame side and torque to 85 ft-lbs (115 Nm).
  • Install the control arm bolt to the knuckle side and torque to 85 ft-lbs (115 Nm).
  • Reconnect the shock absorber to the control arm.
  • Install the wheel and torque lug nuts to 100 ft-lbs (135 Nm).
  • Lower the vehicle.
View full procedure

Rear Lower Control Arm Installation

Procedure for removing and installing rear lower control arms, including torque specifications.

  • Loosen lug nuts on the rear wheels.
  • Raise the vehicle using a jack and support it securely with jack stands.
  • Remove the rear wheel.
  • Disconnect the shock absorber from the lower control arm.
  • Remove the lower control arm bolts from the frame.
  • Remove the lower control arm from the vehicle.
  • Install the new lower control arm to the vehicle.
  • Install the lower control arm bolts to the frame and torque to 130 ft-lbs (176 Nm).
  • Reconnect the shock absorber to the lower control arm.
  • Install the wheel and torque lug nuts to 100 ft-lbs (135 Nm).
  • Lower the vehicle.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Suspension Noise Over Bumps

2007-05-15

Reports of clunking or creaking noises from the front suspension over bumps may be due to loose strut mount nuts. Verify torque.

2004-2009

Resolution: Inspect and retorque strut mount nuts to 60 ft-lbs (81 Nm). Replace nuts if damaged.

Rear Suspension Squeaking

2008-11-01

Squeaking from the rear suspension can be caused by dry control arm bushings. Inspect and lubricate as necessary.

2004-2009

Resolution: Lubricate control arm bushings with a silicone-based grease, and verify all control arm bolts are properly torqued to 85 ft-lbs for upper arms, and 130 ft-lbs for lower arms.

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
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Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

ASE Master Certified Technician with over a decade of hands-on experience in automotive repair and diagnostics.

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