Mercedes-Benz Mercedes E-Class 2017-present Drivetrain Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Mercedes-Benz Mercedes E-Class 2017-present

Mercedes-Benz Mercedes E-Class 2017-present Drivetrain Bolt Torque Specifications

Comprehensive torque specifications for the drivetrain bolts of the 2017-Present Mercedes E-Class, including engine, transmission, and differential 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

Engine Block

Components that secure the main bearings to the engine block, ensuring proper engine operation and preventing damage to the crankshaft and bearings.

1

Main Bearing Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
59 ft-lbs (80 N·m)

Connecting Rods

Components that secure the connecting rods to the crankshaft, maintaining proper engine balance and preventing damage to the engine.

1

Connecting Rod Nuts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
30 ft-lbs (41 N·m)

Crankshaft

Components that secure the crankshaft pulley/harmonic balancer to the crankshaft, maintaining proper engine balance and preventing damage to the engine.

1

Crankshaft Pulley/Harmonic Balancer Bolt

M16 x 1.5
Torque Value
74 ft-lbs (100 N·m)

Flywheel

Components that secure the flywheel to the crankshaft, ensuring proper engine operation and preventing damage to the transmission and engine.

1

Flywheel Bolts

M12 x 1.25
Torque Value
44 ft-lbs (60 N·m)

Transmission

Components that secure the transmission to the engine and chassis, ensuring proper transmission operation and preventing damage to the transmission and engine.

1

Transmission Mounting Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
48 ft-lbs (65 N·m)
2

Transmission Oil Pan Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)

Drive Axle

Components that secure the drive axles/half shafts to the transmission and differential, ensuring proper power transfer and preventing damage to the drivetrain.

1

Drive Axle/Half Shaft Bolts

M16 x 1.5
Torque Value
105 ft-lbs (142 N·m)

Cv Joint

Components that secure the CV joint to the axle, ensuring proper power transfer and preventing damage to the drivetrain.

1

CV Joint/Axle Nut

M20 x 1.5
Torque Value
221 ft-lbs (300 N·m)

Propeller Drive Shaft

Components that secure the propeller/drive shaft to the transmission and differential, ensuring proper power transfer and preventing damage to the drivetrain.

1

Propeller/Drive Shaft Bolts

M12 x 1.25
Torque Value
44 ft-lbs (60 N·m)

Differential

Components that secure the differential fluid, preventing leaks and ensuring proper differential operation.

1

Differential Drain/Fill Plug

M12 x 1.25
Torque Value
37 ft-lbs (50 N·m)

Engine Block To Transmission Bellhousing

Components that secure the engine block to the transmission bellhousing, ensuring proper engine and transmission alignment and preventing damage to the engine and transmission.

1

Engine Block to Transmission Bellhousing Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Important Notes
Estimated values. Consult the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations or a reliable repair manual for accurate information.

Transmission Crossmember

Components that secure the transmission crossmember to the chassis, ensuring proper transmission support and preventing damage to the transmission and chassis.

1

Transmission Crossmember Bolts

M12 x 1.25
Important Notes
Estimated values. Consult the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations or a reliable repair manual for accurate information.

Differential Cover

Components that secure the differential cover to the differential, preventing fluid leaks and ensuring proper differential operation.

1

Differential Cover Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Important Notes
Estimated values. Consult the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations or a reliable repair manual for accurate information.

Axle Shaft To Hub

Components that secure the axle shaft to the hub, ensuring proper power transfer and preventing damage to the drivetrain.

1

Axle Shaft to Hub Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Important Notes
Estimated values. Consult the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations or a reliable repair manual for accurate information.

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

What is the torque specification for the driveshaft bolts on a 2017-Present Mercedes E-Class?

The torque specification for the driveshaft bolts on a 2017-Present Mercedes E-Class is typically 70 Nm (52 lb-ft) plus an additional 90-degree turn. Always refer to the vehicle's service manual or manufacturer guidelines for exact specifications, as they may vary depending on the specific model and drivetrain configuration.

Q2

How often should I check the torque on drivetrain components?

It is recommended to check the torque on drivetrain components, such as driveshaft bolts and axle nuts, during routine maintenance or after any work involving these components. For example, after replacing a driveshaft or performing suspension work, recheck the torque after driving 50-100 miles to ensure bolts remain properly tightened.

Q3

Can I reuse drivetrain bolts, or should they be replaced?

Drivetrain bolts, especially those that are torque-to-yield (TTY), should not be reused as they are designed to stretch during installation and may lose their clamping force if reused. Always replace TTY bolts with new ones and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for bolt replacement.

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

Digital Torque Wrench

A precision tool for applying accurate torque to drivetrain bolts.

  • Adjustable torque settings
  • Digital display for precise readings
Learn more

Torque Angle Gauge

Used to measure the angle of rotation when tightening bolts to ensure proper torque-to-yield specifications.

  • Magnetic base for easy attachment
  • Clear angle markings
Learn more

Socket Set

A set of sockets compatible with drivetrain bolts for secure tightening.

  • Includes metric sizes
  • Durable construction
Learn more
Service Procedures

Drivetrain Bolt Torque Application

Detailed steps for applying the correct torque to drivetrain bolts on a 2017-Present Mercedes E-Class.

  • Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface and the parking brake is engaged.
  • Locate the drivetrain bolts as specified in the service manual.
  • Clean the bolt threads and surrounding area to ensure proper torque application.
  • Using a digital torque wrench, tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque value.
  • For torque-to-yield bolts, use a torque angle gauge to achieve the required angle of rotation after reaching the initial torque value.
  • Double-check all bolts to ensure they are properly tightened.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Drivetrain Bolt Torque Specification Update

2021-05-15

Updated torque specifications for drivetrain bolts on 2017-Present Mercedes E-Class models.

2017-2023 Mercedes E-Class

Resolution: Refer to the updated torque specifications in the service manual and ensure all bolts are tightened accordingly.

Drivetrain Bolt Loosening Issue

2020-08-10

Reports of drivetrain bolts loosening over time on certain 2017-Present Mercedes E-Class models.

2017-2020 Mercedes E-Class

Resolution: Inspect drivetrain bolts during routine maintenance and re-torque to the updated specifications if necessary.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

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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