Mercedes-Benz Mercedes SLC 2016-present Body Panel & Frame Bolt Torque Specifications
Mercedes-Benz Mercedes SLC 2016-present

Mercedes-Benz Mercedes SLC 2016-present Body & Frame Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed torque specifications for the body bolts of the 2016-Present Mercedes SLC, 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

The suspension system is responsible for maintaining proper vehicle alignment, stability, and ride comfort. It consists of various components, including struts, shock absorbers, control arms, and steering gear.

1

Strut/Shock Absorber Mounting Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
74 ft-lbs (100 N·m)
Important Notes
Secure the strut/shock absorber to the vehicle's body.
2

Control Arm Bolts

M16 x 1.5
Torque Value
111 ft-lbs (150 N·m)
Important Notes
Attach the control arms to the vehicle's body.
3

Steering Gear/Rack Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
74 ft-lbs (100 N·m)
Important Notes
Secure the steering gear/rack to the vehicle's body.

Braking

The braking system is responsible for slowing or stopping the vehicle. It consists of various components, including brake calipers, brake pads, and brake rotors.

1

Brake Caliper Mounting Bracket Bolts

M18 x 1.5
Torque Value
148 ft-lbs (200 N·m)
Important Notes
Attach the brake caliper mounting bracket to the vehicle's body.

Body panels

The body panels include various components such as the hood, trunk lid, doors, and fenders. They are secured to the vehicle's frame using bolts.

1

Body Panel Mounting Bolts (e.g., hood, trunk lid, doors)

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Secure the body panels to the vehicle's frame.
2

Bumper Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.25
Torque Value
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Attach the bumper to the vehicle's body.
3

Fender Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Secure the fenders to the vehicle's body.

Doors and trunk lid

The doors and trunk lid are secured to the vehicle's body using hinges and bolts.

1

Door Hinge Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Attach the door hinges to the vehicle's body.
2

Trunk Lid Hinge Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Attach the trunk lid hinges to the vehicle's body.

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 2016-Present Mercedes SLC?

The torque specification for the body bolts on a 2016-Present Mercedes SLC 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 specifications for your vehicle.

Q2

Can I reuse body bolts after removal?

Mercedes-Benz generally recommends replacing body bolts after removal, as they are often designed as torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts. These bolts stretch during installation and may not provide the same clamping force if reused, potentially compromising the structural integrity of the vehicle.

Q3

How often should body bolts be checked for proper torque?

Body bolts should be checked for proper torque during routine maintenance or after any significant impact or repair work. If you notice unusual noises, vibrations, or misalignment in the body structure, it’s advisable to inspect and retorque the bolts as needed.

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 tool used to apply specific torque values to bolts.

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

Body Bolt Socket Set

A set of sockets specifically designed for body bolts of Mercedes SLC.

  • Includes various sizes for different bolts
  • Durable construction for repeated use
Learn more
Service Procedures

Body Bolt Torque Application Procedure

Detailed steps for applying the correct torque to body bolts in a Mercedes SLC.

  • Identify the specific torque value for each body bolt as per the manufacturer's specifications.
  • Use the torque wrench with the appropriate socket to apply the torque evenly and accurately.
View full procedure

Body Bolt Inspection and Maintenance

Procedure for inspecting and maintaining body bolts to ensure vehicle integrity.

  • Regularly check body bolts for signs of wear or loosening.
  • Re-torque bolts as necessary following the specified torque values.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Body Bolt Torque Specifications Update

2018-06-15

Updated torque specifications for body bolts in Mercedes SLC models to ensure proper assembly.

2016-Present

Resolution: Apply the updated torque values as specified in the latest service manual.

Body Bolt Integrity Check

2020-03-20

Bulletin regarding the importance of regular integrity checks for body bolts.

2016-Present

Resolution: Perform regular inspections and re-torque body bolts as necessary to maintain vehicle safety and integrity.

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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