Mercedes-Benz Mercedes Vito 2014-present Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Mercedes-Benz Mercedes Vito 2014-present

Mercedes-Benz Mercedes Vito 2014-present Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed torque specifications for suspension bolts on the 2014-Present Mercedes VITO. Includes front and rear suspension components, ensuring proper tightening for safety and performance.

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

Control arms

Bolts connecting control arms to the vehicle's frame or suspension components.

1

Control Arm Bolt

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
74 ft-lbs (100 N·m)
Important Notes
Proper torque ensures control arms are securely fastened, maintaining stability and preventing excessive movement.

Strut/shock absorber mounting

Bolts securing the strut or shock absorber to the vehicle's frame or suspension components.

1

Strut/Shock Absorber Mounting Bolt

M12 x 1.25
Torque Value
41 ft-lbs (55 N·m)
Important Notes
Proper torque ensures the strut/shock absorber is properly seated and functioning correctly.

Ball joints

Nut securing the ball joint to the control arm or steering knuckle.

1

Ball Joint Nut

M16 x 1.5
Torque Value
52 ft-lbs (70 N·m)
Important Notes
Proper torque ensures the ball joint is securely fastened, maintaining proper steering and suspension geometry.

Tie rod ends

Nut securing the tie rod end to the steering knuckle or control arm.

1

Tie Rod End Nut

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
37 ft-lbs (50 N·m)
Important Notes
Proper torque ensures the tie rod end is securely fastened, maintaining proper steering alignment.

Steering knuckle

Bolts securing the steering knuckle to the vehicle's frame or suspension components.

1

Steering Knuckle Bolt (Upper and Lower)

M16 x 1.5
Torque Value
85 ft-lbs (116 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Proper torque ensures the steering knuckle is securely fastened, maintaining proper steering alignment and preventing excessive movement.

Shock absorber mounting

Nuts securing the shock absorber to the vehicle's frame or suspension components.

1

Shock Absorber Mounting Nut (Upper and Lower)

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
55 ft-lbs (75 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Proper torque ensures the shock absorber is properly seated and functioning correctly.

Coil spring mounting

Bolt securing the coil spring to the vehicle's frame or suspension components.

1

Coil Spring Mounting Bolt

M12 x 1.25
Torque Value
60 ft-lbs (82 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Proper torque ensures the coil spring is securely fastened, maintaining proper ride height and preventing excessive movement.

Stabilizer bar mounting

Bolt securing the stabilizer bar to the vehicle's frame or suspension components.

1

Stabilizer Bar Mounting Bolt

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
45 ft-lbs (61 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Proper torque ensures the stabilizer bar is securely fastened, maintaining stability and handling.

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 are the torque specifications for the suspension bolts on a 2014-Present Mercedes VITO?

The torque specifications for the suspension bolts vary depending on the specific component. For example, the front lower control arm bolts typically require 90 Nm + 90° of additional rotation, while the rear axle U-bolts require 100 Nm. Always refer to the official Mercedes-Benz service manual for your specific model and year to ensure accuracy.

Q2

How often should suspension bolts be checked for proper torque?

Suspension bolts should be checked during routine maintenance, such as during tire rotations or suspension inspections, typically every 10,000-15,000 miles. Additionally, after any suspension repair or component replacement, it is crucial to verify the torque specifications to ensure safety and performance.

Q3

Can I reuse suspension bolts after removal?

Mercedes-Benz recommends replacing suspension bolts after removal, as they are often torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts designed for one-time use. Reusing these bolts can compromise their integrity and lead to failure. Always use new bolts and follow the manufacturer's guidelines.

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 a specific torque to suspension bolts.

  • Adjustable torque settings
  • Calibration certificate included
Learn more

Socket Set

A set of sockets compatible with suspension bolt sizes.

  • Metric sizes
  • Durable chrome vanadium construction
Learn more

Torque Angle Gauge

Used to measure the angle of rotation when torque-to-yield bolts are used.

  • Digital display
  • Magnetic base for easy attachment
Learn more
Service Procedures

Front Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications

Procedure for applying correct torque to front suspension bolts on a 2014-Present Mercedes VITO.

  • Lift the vehicle and secure it on jack stands.
  • Remove the front wheels to access the suspension components.
  • Use a torque wrench to tighten the lower control arm bolts to 120 Nm + 90°.
  • Tighten the strut mount bolts to 70 Nm.
  • Reinstall the wheels and lower the vehicle.
View full procedure

Rear Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications

Procedure for applying correct torque to rear suspension bolts on a 2014-Present Mercedes VITO.

  • Lift the vehicle and secure it on jack stands.
  • Remove the rear wheels to access the suspension components.
  • Use a torque wrench to tighten the rear axle carrier bolts to 130 Nm + 90°.
  • Tighten the shock absorber bolts to 90 Nm.
  • Reinstall the wheels and lower the vehicle.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Suspension Bolt Torque Specification Update

2021-05-15

Updated torque specifications for suspension bolts on 2014-Present Mercedes VITO models.

2014-2023 Mercedes VITO

Resolution: Refer to the latest service manual for updated torque values and ensure proper calibration of torque tools.

Incorrect Torque Application Leading to Suspension Noise

2020-08-10

Reports of suspension noise due to incorrect torque application on front lower control arm bolts.

2014-2020 Mercedes VITO

Resolution: Verify torque settings and re-torque bolts to 120 Nm + 90° using a calibrated torque wrench and angle gauge.

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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