Kia Sportage 2017-2021 Drivetrain Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Kia Sportage 2017-2021

Kia Sportage 2017-2021 Drivetrain Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed torque specifications for the drivetrain components of the 2017-2021 Kia Sportage, including axle nuts, driveshaft bolts, and transmission mounting bolts.

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

Bolt torque specifications for engine components, including flywheel, crankshaft pulley, and timing belt/chain tensioner.

1

Flywheel Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
54 ft-lbs (73.2 N·m)
Important Notes
Proper torque ensures a secure connection and prevents damage to the flywheel, crankshaft, or transmission.
2

Crankshaft Pulley/Harmonic Balancer Bolt

M16 x 1.5
Torque Value
115 ft-lbs (155.9 N·m)
Important Notes
Correct torque prevents damage to the balancer, crankshaft, or surrounding components.
3

Timing Belt/Chain Tensioner Bolt

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
26 ft-lbs (35.3 N·m)
Important Notes
Proper torque ensures the tensioner functions correctly, preventing engine damage or premature wear.

Transmission

Bolt torque specifications for transmission components, including transmission mounting bolts, propeller/drive shaft bolts, and transmission oil pan bolts.

1

Transmission Mounting Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
43 ft-lbs (58.3 N·m)
Important Notes
Proper torque ensures proper alignment and prevents vibration or damage.
2

Propeller/Drive Shaft Bolts

M16 x 1.5
Torque Value
61 ft-lbs (82.8 N·m)
Important Notes
Proper torque ensures a secure connection and prevents damage to the shaft or surrounding components.
3

Transmission Oil Pan Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
80 in-lbs (9 N·m)
Important Notes
Proper torque ensures proper sealing and prevents oil leaks.

Driveshaft and axles

Bolt torque specifications for driveshaft and axle components, including drive axle/half shaft bolts, CV joint/axle nut, and drive shaft center bearing bolts.

1

Drive Axle/Half Shaft Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
58 ft-lbs (78.6 N·m)
Important Notes
Proper torque prevents damage to the axle, hub, or surrounding components.
2

CV Joint/Axle Nut

M20 x 1.5
Torque Value
180 ft-lbs (244 N·m)
Important Notes
Proper torque ensures smooth power transfer and prevents over-tightening or damage.
3

Drive Shaft Center Bearing Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
35 ft-lbs (47.4 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Proper torque prevents vibration or damage.

Differential

Bolt torque specifications for differential components, including differential carrier bolts and differential cover bolts.

1

Differential Carrier Bolts

M16 x 1.5
Torque Value
75 ft-lbs (101.7 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Proper torque prevents damage or vibration.
2

Differential Cover Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
35 ft-lbs (47.4 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value. Proper torque ensures a secure seal and prevents oil leaks.

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 drivetrain bolts on a 2017-2021 Kia Sportage?

The torque specifications vary depending on the specific drivetrain component. For example, the front axle hub nut typically requires 180-220 Nm (133-162 lb-ft), while the rear axle hub nut may require 200-250 Nm (148-184 lb-ft). Always refer to the official Kia service manual for your specific model and year to ensure accuracy.

Q2

How often should I check the torque on drivetrain bolts?

It is recommended to check the torque on drivetrain bolts during routine maintenance, such as every 30,000 miles or after any significant drivetrain work. Additionally, inspect them if you notice unusual noises, vibrations, or handling issues, as loose bolts can lead to component failure.

Q3

Can I reuse drivetrain bolts after removal?

Some drivetrain bolts, such as axle nuts, are designed for one-time use and should be replaced after removal. Reusing these bolts can compromise their integrity and lead to failure. Always check the service manual for guidance on which bolts are reusable and which require replacement.

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 bolts and nuts.

  • Adjustable torque settings
  • Durable construction for heavy-duty use
Learn more

Socket Set

A set of sockets in various sizes to fit different bolts and nuts.

  • Includes both metric and standard sizes
  • Compatible with torque wrenches
Learn more

Thread Locker

A chemical compound used to secure bolts and prevent loosening.

  • High-strength formula
  • Resistant to vibration and temperature changes
Learn more
Service Procedures

Drivetrain Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed steps to ensure proper torque application for drivetrain bolts.

  • Locate the drivetrain bolts requiring torque application.
  • Clean the bolt threads and surrounding area to ensure proper torque measurement.
  • Set the torque wrench to the specified torque value for the bolt.
  • Apply the torque evenly and steadily until the wrench clicks or indicates the desired torque.
  • Double-check the torque setting and reapply if necessary.
View full procedure

Drivetrain Bolt Inspection

Procedure to inspect drivetrain bolts for wear, damage, or loosening.

  • Visually inspect each bolt for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage.
  • Check for any loose bolts by gently attempting to tighten them with a wrench.
  • Replace any bolts that show signs of damage or wear.
  • Re-torque all bolts to the manufacturer's specifications.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Drivetrain Bolt Loosening Issue

2019-05-15

Reports of drivetrain bolts loosening over time, leading to potential drivetrain failure.

2017-2019 Kia Sportage

Resolution: Inspect and re-torque all drivetrain bolts to the specified torque values. Apply thread locker if necessary.

Drivetrain Bolt Corrosion

2020-08-20

Drivetrain bolts in certain models are prone to corrosion, leading to weakened structural integrity.

2017-2021 Kia Sportage

Resolution: Replace corroded bolts with new, high-strength bolts and apply anti-corrosion coating.

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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