Tire Technician how-to

How to Torque Lug Nuts in a Star Pattern

Correct torque keeps wheels on.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Correct torque keeps wheels on. In short: hand-start; snug; set, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Hand-start all nuts.

  2. Snug in a star pattern.

  3. Set the torque wrench.

  4. Torque in a star pattern.

  5. Check again.

  6. Advise a re-torque.

Safety reminders for tire technicians

  • Use inflation cages for large tires
  • Use lifts correctly
  • Wear eye and hearing protection
  • Lift safely

Bead · TPMS · Balancing · Rotation · Tread depth · Plug-patch: see the full tire technician glossary.

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