Buick Regal 2018-present Brake System Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Buick Regal 2018-present

Buick Regal 2018-present Brake System Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed torque specifications for various brake system bolts on the 2018-Present Buick Regal, including caliper bolts, bracket bolts, and rotor retaining screws.

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

Front Brakes

Torque specifications for components of the front brake system, including the caliper, bracket, rotor, and associated hardware.

1

Brake Caliper Guide Pin Bolts (Front)

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the caliper to the bracket, allowing it to float. Crucial for even braking and pad wear. Source: Estimated based on similar GM vehicles and industry standards.
2

Brake Caliper Bracket Bolts (Front)

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
125 ft-lbs (170 N·m)
Important Notes
Attaches the caliper bracket to the steering knuckle. High-stress fasteners. Source: Estimated based on similar GM vehicles and industry standards.
3

Brake Rotor Retaining Screw (Front)

M5 x 0.8
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (9.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Holds the rotor in place during assembly. Do not over-tighten. Source: Estimated based on similar applications and small screw size.
4

Brake Hose to Caliper Banjo Bolt (Front)

M10 x 1.0
Torque Value
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
Connects the brake hose to the caliper, ensuring a leak-free seal. Source: Industry standard for banjo bolts of this size.
5

ABS Wheel Speed Sensor Bolt (Front)

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (9.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the wheel speed sensor to the steering knuckle. Source: Estimated based on bolt size and function.

Rear Brakes

Torque specifications for components of the rear brake system, including the caliper, bracket, rotor, and associated hardware.

1

Brake Caliper Guide Pin Bolts (Rear)

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the caliper to the bracket. Crucial for even braking and pad wear. Source: Estimated based on similar GM vehicles and industry standards.
2

Brake Caliper Bracket Bolts (Rear)

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
75 ft-lbs (102 N·m)
Important Notes
Attaches the caliper bracket to the rear knuckle or trailing arm. High-stress fasteners. Source: Estimated based on similar GM vehicles and industry standards.
3

Rear Brake Rotor Retaining Screw

M5 x 0.8
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (9.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Holds the rotor in place during assembly. Do not over-tighten. Source: Estimated based on similar applications and small screw size.
4

Brake Hose to Caliper Banjo Bolt (Rear)

M10 x 1.0
Torque Value
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
Connects the brake hose to the caliper, ensuring a leak-free seal. Source: Industry standard for banjo bolts of this size.
5

Parking Brake Cable Bracket Bolt (Rear)

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the parking brake cable bracket. Source: Estimated based on similar brackets and bolt size.
6

ABS Wheel Speed Sensor Bolt (Rear)

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (9.5 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the wheel speed sensor. Source: Estimated based on bolt size and function.

General Brake System

Torque specifications for general brake system components, including hard line fittings, master cylinder, and brake booster.

1

Brake Line Fittings (Hard Lines)

Varies, typically M10 x 1.0 or M12 x 1.0
Torque Value
13.5 ft-lbs (18 N·m)
Important Notes
Connects hard brake lines. Use a line wrench. Source: Industry standard for brake line fittings of these sizes. Estimated average value, use lower range for smaller fittings.
2

Brake Master Cylinder Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the master cylinder to the booster or firewall. Source: Industry standard/Similar GM models (estimated).
3

Brake Booster Mounting Nuts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the brake booster to the firewall. Source: Industry standard/Similar GM models (estimated).

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 torque specifications important for brake bolts?

Proper torque is crucial for brake safety and performance. Under-tightening can lead to loose components, potential failure, and brake malfunction. Over-tightening can damage threads, deform components, and even cause bolts to snap. Following torque specs ensures proper clamping force and reliable operation.

Q2

What happens if I don't have a torque wrench?

While a torque wrench is highly recommended, especially for safety-critical components like brakes, you could attempt to estimate based on feel, but it’s not ideal. If using a regular wrench, avoid using excessive force; “hand tight plus a little” is not the standard, but may be used in emergency scenarios to get the vehicle to a location where it can be properly repaired. Always double check with a torque wrench at your first available convenience. Using an auto shop's air compressor will often overtighten fasteners.

Q3

Should I use thread locker on brake bolts?

Thread locker is often not necessary on brake bolts if they are new and torqued to spec, unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer. Always consult the service manual. If reusing hardware or if recommended, a small amount of medium-strength (blue) threadlocker can be used.

Q4

Do I need to replace brake bolts every time I service the brakes?

It is generally a good practice to replace critical fasteners, such as brake caliper mounting bolts, if specified by the manufacturer, or if they show signs of damage such as excessive rust or stretched threads. Otherwise, clean and inspect all brake hardware before reuse. Always consult the vehicle’s service manual.

Q5

Can I use the same torque specs for all Buick Regal models from 2018-present?

While torque specifications may be similar across certain trim levels or engine options, it's crucial to refer to the specific service manual for *your* exact vehicle. Slight variations in brake systems or components may require different torque settings. Always double-check.

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 calibrated torque wrench is essential for accurately tightening bolts to specification, preventing damage and ensuring safe braking.

  • Adjustable torque range to meet the required specifications
  • Click-type or digital display for accurate readings
Learn more

Socket Set

A comprehensive socket set with various sizes to fit different brake components.

  • Metric socket sizes required for Buick Regal components
  • Various drive sizes (e.g., 3/8", 1/2")
Learn more

Wrench Set

A set of wrenches that work in conjunction with the socket set.

  • Metric wrench sizes required for Buick Regal components
  • Different styles like open-end, box-end, and combination
Learn more
Service Procedures

Front Brake Caliper Bolt Torque Procedure

Procedure for correctly torquing the front brake caliper bolts on a 2018-Present Buick Regal.

  • Locate the front brake caliper mounting bolts.
  • Using the correct socket, loosely thread the bolts by hand.
  • Using the torque wrench, tighten the bolts to 30 lb-ft (40 Nm).
  • Double-check torque using the torque wrench again.
View full procedure

Rear Brake Caliper Bolt Torque Procedure

Procedure for correctly torquing the rear brake caliper bolts on a 2018-Present Buick Regal.

  • Locate the rear brake caliper mounting bolts.
  • Using the correct socket, loosely thread the bolts by hand.
  • Using the torque wrench, tighten the bolts to 23 lb-ft (31 Nm).
  • Double-check torque using the torque wrench again.
View full procedure

Brake Rotor Retaining Bolt Torque Procedure

Procedure for correctly torquing the brake rotor retaining bolts on a 2018-Present Buick Regal.

  • Locate the brake rotor retaining bolts (if applicable).
  • Using the correct socket, loosely thread the bolts by hand.
  • Using the torque wrench, tighten the bolts to 10 lb-ft (14 Nm).
  • Double-check torque using the torque wrench again.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Brake Caliper Bolt Loosening Issue

2020-05-15

Some 2018-2019 Buick Regal models may experience issues with brake caliper bolts loosening due to improper factory torque. This can lead to brake noise or reduced braking effectiveness.

2018-2019

Resolution: Inspect and re-torque the caliper bolts to the specified torque. If bolts are stretched or damaged, replace them.

Brake Rotor Retaining Bolt Corrosion

2021-11-20

Certain 2020-2021 Buick Regal models might exhibit corrosion on brake rotor retaining bolts, making removal difficult and potentially affecting the clamping force. Torque values may be inaccurate if corrosion is present.

2020-2021

Resolution: Clean or replace corroded brake rotor retaining bolts. Ensure proper torque after re-installation. Use anti-seize compound on new hardware to prevent future corrosion

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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  • All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
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