Mercedes-Benz Mercedes GLA 2014-2020 Body Panel & Frame Bolt Torque Specifications
Mercedes-Benz Mercedes GLA 2014-2020

Mercedes-Benz Mercedes GLA 2014-2020 Body & Frame Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed torque specifications for body bolts on the 2014-2020 Mercedes GLA, including proper tightening sequences and recommended tools.

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

Suspension

Components that make up the vehicle's suspension system, including strut/shock absorber, control arm, ball joint, tie rod end, and sway bar link.

1

Strut/Shock Absorber Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
30 ft-lbs (41 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the strut/shock absorber to the vehicle's body, ensuring proper suspension alignment and stability.
2

Control Arm Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
85 ft-lbs (115 N·m)
Important Notes
Attaches the control arm to the vehicle's body, maintaining proper suspension geometry and alignment.
3

Ball Joint Nut

M16 x 1.5
Torque Value
59 ft-lbs (80 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the ball joint to the control arm, allowing for smooth suspension movement and maintaining proper alignment.
4

Tie Rod End Nut

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
37 ft-lbs (50 N·m)
Important Notes
Attaches the tie rod end to the steering gear, ensuring proper steering alignment and responsiveness.
5

Sway Bar Link Nut

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
37 ft-lbs (50 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the sway bar link to the sway bar, maintaining proper suspension stability and handling.

Steering

Components that make up the vehicle's steering system, including steering gear/rack.

1

Steering Gear/Rack Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
70 ft-lbs (95 N·m)
Important Notes
Attaches the steering gear/rack to the vehicle's body, ensuring proper steering alignment and responsiveness.

Body

Components that make up the vehicle's body system, including body mounting, door hinges, hood hinges, trunk lid hinges, bumper mounting, and fender mounting.

1

Body Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
37 ft-lbs (50 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the vehicle's body to the frame, maintaining proper body alignment and stability. (Estimated value)
2

Door Hinge Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
15 ft-lbs (20 N·m)
Important Notes
Attaches the door hinges to the vehicle's body, ensuring proper door alignment and smooth operation. (Estimated value)
3

Hood Hinge Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
15 ft-lbs (20 N·m)
Important Notes
Attaches the hood hinges to the vehicle's body, ensuring proper hood alignment and smooth operation. (Estimated value)
4

Trunk Lid Hinge Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
15 ft-lbs (20 N·m)
Important Notes
Attaches the trunk lid hinges to the vehicle's body, ensuring proper trunk lid alignment and smooth operation. (Estimated value)
5

Bumper Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
30 ft-lbs (41 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the bumper to the vehicle's body, maintaining proper bumper alignment and stability. (Estimated value)
6

Fender Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
15 ft-lbs (20 N·m)
Important Notes
Attaches the fenders to the vehicle's body, ensuring proper fender alignment and smooth operation. (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

What is the torque specification for the body bolts on a 2014-2020 Mercedes GLA?

The torque specification for the body bolts on a 2014-2020 Mercedes GLA typically ranges between 50-70 Nm (Newton-meters), depending on the specific bolt location and size. Always refer to the official Mercedes-Benz service manual for the exact torque values for your vehicle's model year and configuration.

Q2

Can I reuse body bolts after removal?

Mercedes-Benz generally recommends replacing body bolts after removal, as they are often designed as one-time-use torque-to-yield bolts. Reusing them can compromise structural integrity and safety. Always check the service manual for specific guidance.

Q3

What tools are required to torque body bolts correctly?

A calibrated torque wrench is essential for accurately tightening body bolts. Additionally, a socket set that matches the bolt size and a clean, dry workspace are recommended. Ensure the torque wrench is set to the correct Nm value before use.

Q4

How often should body bolts be inspected?

Body bolts should be inspected during routine maintenance or after any significant impact or accident. Look for signs of corrosion, deformation, or loosening. If any issues are found, replace the bolts immediately.

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

A precision torque wrench for accurate torque application.

  • Adjustable torque settings
  • Calibrated for high accuracy
Learn more

Socket Set

A set of sockets compatible with Mercedes body bolts.

  • Includes metric sizes
  • Durable construction
Learn more

Thread Locking Compound

A high-strength thread locker to secure bolts.

  • Prevents loosening due to vibration
  • Resistant to heat and chemicals
Learn more
Service Procedures

Body Bolt Torque Application

Procedure for applying the correct torque to body bolts on a 2014-2020 Mercedes GLA.

  • Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface and properly supported.
  • Identify the body bolts requiring torque application.
  • Clean the bolt threads and apply thread locking compound if specified.
  • Using a torque wrench, tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque value.
  • Double-check the torque settings and ensure all bolts are properly secured.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Body Bolt Loosening Issue

2018-05-15

Reports of body bolts loosening over time due to insufficient torque or lack of thread locking compound.

2014-2018 Mercedes GLA

Resolution: Re-torque all body bolts to the specified value and apply thread locking compound as per the service manual.

Updated Torque Specifications

2019-11-22

Revised torque specifications for body bolts to address durability concerns.

2014-2020 Mercedes GLA

Resolution: Refer to the updated torque specifications in the latest service manual and ensure compliance during repairs.

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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