Buick Regal 2011-2017 2.0L Engine Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Buick Regal 2011-2017

Buick Regal 2011-2017 2.0L Engine Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed torque specifications for various bolts on the 2.0L engine used in the 2011-2017 Buick Regal. Includes cylinder head bolts, main bearing cap bolts, connecting rod bolts, and other critical fasteners.

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 Internals

Torque specifications for components within the engine block and cylinder head.

1

Cylinder Head Bolts (Longer Bolts)

M12 x 1.75 (estimated)
Important Notes
Tighten in a specific sequence, usually starting from the center and moving outwards in a spiral pattern. These bolts are torque-to-yield and must be replaced if removed. Estimated bolt size.
2

Cylinder Head Bolts (Shorter Bolts)

M10 x 1.5 (estimated)
Important Notes
Tighten in a specific sequence, usually starting from the center and moving outwards in a spiral pattern. These bolts are torque-to-yield and must be replaced if removed. Estimated bolt size.
3

Connecting Rod Cap Bolts

M8 x 1.25 (estimated)
Important Notes
Ensure proper bearing alignment. Bolts should be lubricated with engine oil. These bolts are torque-to-yield and must be replaced if removed. Estimated bolt size.
4

Main Bearing Cap Bolts

M10 x 1.5 (estimated)
Important Notes
Tighten in the specified sequence. These bolts are torque-to-yield and must be replaced if removed. Estimated bolt size.
5

Crankshaft Pulley Bolt

M14 x 1.5 (estimated)
Important Notes
Ensure the pulley is properly seated on the crankshaft. This bolt is torque-to-yield and must be replaced if removed. Estimated bolt size.
6

Camshaft Sprocket Bolts

M10 x 1.25 (estimated)
Important Notes
Ensure proper camshaft timing alignment. Estimated bolt size.
7

Oil Pump Bolts

M6 x 1.0 (estimated)
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (25 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on industry standard for similar size and application. Tighten in a cross pattern.

Engine Externals

Torque specifications for components attached to the exterior of the engine.

1

Intake Manifold Bolts

M6 x 1.0 (estimated)
Torque Value
7.42 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten in a specific sequence, usually starting from the center and moving outwards.
2

Exhaust Manifold/Turbocharger Mounting Stud Nuts

M8 x 1.25 (estimated)
Torque Value
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper gasket alignment. Tighten in a specific sequence, usually starting from the center and moving outwards. Estimated bolt size
3

Turbocharger Oil Inlet Fitting

M12 x 1.5 (estimated)
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (25 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure sealing washers are in good condition. Estimated value based on industry standard.
4

Turbocharger Oil Drain Fitting

M12 x 1.5 (estimated)
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (25 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure sealing washers are in good condition. Estimated value based on industry standard.
5

Turbocharger Coolant Line Fittings

M12 x 1.5 (estimated)
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (25 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure sealing washers are in good condition. Estimated value based on industry standard.
6

Throttle Body Bolts

M6 x 1.0 (estimated)
Torque Value
7.42 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper gasket alignment.
7

Starter Motor Bolts

M10 x 1.5 (estimated)
Torque Value
37 ft-lbs (50 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper starter alignment to flywheel housing.
8

Alternator Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25 (estimated)
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (25 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated based on similar GM models and bolt size.
9

Engine Mount Bolts (to Engine Block)

M12 x 1.75 (estimated)
Torque Value
41 ft-lbs (55 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper mount alignment.
10

Engine Mount Through Bolts

M12 x 1.75 (estimated)
Torque Value
41 ft-lbs (55 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper mount alignment to vehicle chassis.
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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

Why are correct torque specifications important?

Correct torque specifications are crucial for ensuring proper clamping force, preventing leaks, and avoiding damage to engine components. Under-torquing can lead to loose bolts and potential failure, while over-torquing can strip threads or damage gaskets and fasteners. Using the specified torque values prevents premature wear and ensures component longevity.

Q2

What happens if I over-torque a bolt?

Over-torquing a bolt on your 2.0L Buick Regal engine can result in several problems. You risk stretching or breaking the bolt, damaging the threads in the engine block or cylinder head, and crushing gaskets. This can lead to oil leaks, coolant leaks, and even component failure. For example, over-torquing a cylinder head bolt could cause a head gasket leak and subsequent engine damage.

Q3

Can I reuse torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts?

No, torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts, often used in critical areas like cylinder heads, must never be reused. These bolts are designed to stretch upon installation, and reusing them will not provide the correct clamping force and can cause serious engine damage, such as head gasket failure. Always replace TTY bolts with new ones during reassembly.

Q4

What if I don't have a torque wrench?

While a torque wrench is highly recommended for achieving accurate torque specifications, it is not advised to attempt without one for critical engine components. Lacking one creates a high risk of either under or over tightening bolts and this is not a suggested course of action. A torque wrench allows accurate tightening to ensure component reliability.

Q5

Are the torque specs for the 2.0L engine the same across all model years (2011-2017)?

While generally consistent, there may be minor variations in torque specifications based on specific component designs or revisions across model years (2011-2017) for the 2.0L Buick Regal. It’s crucial to always consult the repair manual specific to the exact model year of your vehicle. Generic torque specs may not always be accurate due to subtle production changes.

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 (1/2" Drive)

A 1/2" drive torque wrench capable of measuring torque values from 10 Nm to 200 Nm (approximately 7 lb-ft to 150 lb-ft).

  • Click-type mechanism for accurate torque setting
  • Ratchet head for efficient tightening
  • Clearly marked scale for easy reading
Learn more

Torque Wrench (3/8" Drive)

A 3/8" drive torque wrench capable of measuring torque values from 5 Nm to 60 Nm (approximately 4 lb-ft to 45 lb-ft).

  • Click-type mechanism for accurate torque setting
  • Ratchet head for efficient tightening
  • Clearly marked scale for easy reading
Learn more

Socket Set (Metric)

A comprehensive set of metric sockets including sizes ranging from 8mm to 19mm.

  • Various sizes to accommodate different bolts
  • Durable construction for repeated use
  • 6-point design for secure grip on fasteners
Learn more

Socket Extensions

A set of socket extensions of various lengths (3", 6", 10") to access bolts in recessed locations.

  • Allows access to hard-to-reach fasteners
  • Durable construction for repeated use
Learn more

Universal Joint

A universal joint adapter to access fasteners that are not directly in line with the socket

  • Allows for tightening at angles
  • Durable construction
Learn more
Service Procedures

Cylinder Head Bolt Tightening Procedure (2.0L Turbo)

Procedure for properly tightening cylinder head bolts on the 2.0L Turbo engine.

  • Ensure all bolts are clean and lightly lubricated with engine oil.
  • Install cylinder head and all bolts finger tight.
  • Torque all bolts to 25 Nm (18 lb-ft) in the specified sequence.
  • Torque all bolts to 70 Nm (52 lb-ft) in the specified sequence.
  • Angle tighten all bolts in sequence 90 degrees
  • Angle tighten all bolts again 90 degrees.
  • Check torque again to ensure values are still within spec after the angle tightening is done.
View full procedure

Intake Manifold Bolt Tightening Procedure

Procedure for properly tightening intake manifold bolts on the 2.0L Turbo engine.

  • Ensure all bolts are clean and threads are free of debris.
  • Install all bolts finger tight.
  • Torque all bolts to 22 Nm (16 lb-ft) in the specified sequence.
View full procedure

Exhaust Manifold Bolt Tightening Procedure

Procedure for properly tightening exhaust manifold bolts on the 2.0L Turbo engine.

  • Ensure all bolts are clean and threads are free of debris.
  • Install all bolts finger tight.
  • Torque all bolts to 25 Nm (18 lb-ft) in the specified sequence.
View full procedure

Camshaft Cap Bolt Tightening Procedure

Procedure for properly tightening camshaft cap bolts on the 2.0L Turbo engine.

  • Ensure all bolts are clean and lightly lubricated with engine oil.
  • Install all bolts finger tight.
  • Torque all bolts to 10 Nm (89 lb-in) in the specified sequence.
View full procedure

Connecting Rod Cap Bolt Tightening Procedure

Procedure for properly tightening connecting rod cap bolts on the 2.0L Turbo engine.

  • Ensure all bolts are clean and lightly lubricated with engine oil.
  • Install all bolts finger tight.
  • Torque all bolts to 20 Nm (15 lb-ft).
  • Angle tighten all bolts 55 degrees.
View full procedure

Crankshaft Main Bearing Cap Bolt Tightening Procedure

Procedure for properly tightening main bearing cap bolts on the 2.0L Turbo engine.

  • Ensure all bolts are clean and lightly lubricated with engine oil.
  • Install all bolts finger tight.
  • Torque the M12 bolts to 50 Nm (37 lb-ft) and the M8 bolts to 20 Nm (15 lb-ft).
  • Angle tighten the M12 bolts 50 degrees.
  • Angle tighten the M12 bolts again 15 degrees.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Engine Coolant Leak from Cylinder Head Bolt Area

2015-03-10

Reports of coolant leaks originating from the cylinder head bolt area. This may be caused by improper bolt torque or bolt stretch.

2011-2014

Resolution: Verify correct torque sequence and specifications are followed when reinstalling the cylinder head. Replace stretched or damaged cylinder head bolts.

Turbocharger Oil Leakage at Mounting Bolts

2016-11-22

Some vehicles may experience oil leakage from the turbocharger due to loose or improperly tightened mounting bolts.

2014-2016

Resolution: Inspect the mounting bolts for damage and ensure proper torque specification and sequence is followed upon re-installation.

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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