Introduction
Tightening lug nuts without a torque wrench can be a recipe for disaster. If worse comes to worse and you break the wheel stud, here's how to replace it.If you’re like everyone else, you’ve tightened the lug nuts on your car without using a torque wrench. You’re an “all the muscle you can put into it” kind of guy, and now you’re staring at a broken wheel stud.
You can fix tire bolts yourself in about an hour for less than $60. You’ll need to buy a tie rod end remover or rent one from an auto parts store. Then buy a new stud and two new lug nuts (yes, two of them). Next, stop at the hardware store and get a handful of washers with a hole diameter slightly larger than the threaded portion of the stud.
Though a simple and straightforward task in most cases, it can also be frustrating and time consuming if the broken stud has rusted on after many years of harsh weather or neglect. There’s no shame in turning this over to a reliable mechanic in your area.
What is a Wheel Stud?
Wheel studs hold the tire in place. When changing a tire, you remove lug nuts from the wheel studs, allowing the wheel to come off.
Wheel studs, often called tire bolts, are threaded metal rods, typically made of steel, that protrude from the wheel hub, usually through the brakes. Their main purpose: Securing the wheel to the hub. Improperly tightened lug nuts, too loose or tight, can cause wheel studs to break, and your wheel to fly off when in motion. That could have grave consequences.
Regular inspection of wheel studs is important for vehicle safety and reliability.
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