BMW M5 2011-2017 4.4L Engine Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
BMW M5 2011-2017

BMW M5 2011-2017 4.4L Engine Bolt Torque Specifications

Comprehensive guide to the 4.4L engine bolt torque specifications for the 2011-2017 BMW M5 (F10) including cylinder head, main bearing caps, connecting rods and other relevant components.

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

Cylinder Head

Specifications for components related to the cylinder head, including bolts securing it to the engine block and related parts.

1

Cylinder Head Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Important Notes
Torque-to-yield bolts. Must follow specified torque sequence and angles. Use new bolts. Always lubricate threads with engine oil before installation.
2

Valve Cover Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in a criss-cross pattern to ensure even sealing. Do not overtighten, which can cause leaks or deformation.
3

Exhaust Manifold to Cylinder Head Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in a criss-cross pattern to ensure proper sealing. Use new gasket if necessary.
4

Spark Plugs

M14 x 1.25
Torque Value
23 ft-lbs (31 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure spark plug threads are clean. Do not over-tighten; this can damage the cylinder head and spark plugs.
5

Rocker Arms/Shafts Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
19 ft-lbs (26 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten in a staggered pattern to ensure even pressure and proper valve operation.

Engine Block

Specifications for components attached to the engine block, including main bearings, oil pan, and mounting components.

1

Main Bearing Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Important Notes
Use new bolts and lubricate threads with engine oil. Follow the specified torque sequence and angles, which are critical for proper crankshaft alignment and bearing function.
2

Oil Pan Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in a criss-cross pattern to ensure even sealing. Do not overtighten, which can deform the oil pan and cause leaks. Use a new gasket.
3

Oil Filter Housing Bolt

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the O-ring is properly seated. Tighten to ensure a proper seal to avoid oil leaks.
4

Engine Mount Bolts to Block

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the engine mount before tightening bolts. Use new bolts if necessary. Estimated value.
5

Crankshaft Position Sensor Bolt

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Do not overtighten. Sensor must be installed in correct orientation for proper operation. Estimated value.
6

Knock Sensor Bolt

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
15 ft-lbs (20 N·m)
Important Notes
Do not overtighten. Ensure the sensor is seated flat on the engine block. Estimated value.
7

Water Pump Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in a criss-cross pattern for even sealing. Use a new gasket. Do not over tighten.

Connecting Rods

Specifications for connecting rods, including bolts and related components.

1

Connecting Rod Nuts

M9 x 1.0
Important Notes
Use new nuts. Lubricate threads with engine oil before installation. Must follow specified torque sequence and angles. These are usually torque-to-yield.

Flywheel And Crankshaft

Specifications for components related to the flywheel and crankshaft, including mounting bolts and pulley.

1

Flywheel Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
65 ft-lbs (88 N·m)
Important Notes
Use new bolts. Tighten in a star pattern to ensure even clamping force. Always use the correct torque to avoid damage or imbalance.
2

Crankshaft Pulley/Harmonic Balancer Bolt

M18 x 1.5
Torque Value
180 ft-lbs (244 N·m)
Important Notes
Use new bolt and lubricate threads with engine oil. Ensure pulley is properly seated. Proper torque is critical for harmonic balancer function. Estimated value.

Intake And Exhaust

Specifications for components related to the intake and exhaust systems, including manifolds and throttle body.

1

Intake Manifold Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (22 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in a criss-cross pattern to ensure even sealing. Use new gasket if necessary.
2

Throttle Body Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Do not overtighten. Ensure throttle body is seated properly. Use new gasket if necessary.
3

Exhaust Manifold/Headers Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts in a criss-cross pattern to ensure proper sealing. Use new gasket if necessary.

Fuel System

Specifications for fuel system components, including fuel injectors and rails.

1

Fuel Injector Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Do not overtighten. Ensure proper injector seating.
2

Fuel Injector Rail Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure fuel rail is properly seated. Do not overtighten.

Cooling System

Specifications for cooling system components, including water pump, thermostat, and related parts.

1

Water Pump Pulley Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Tighten bolts evenly. Do not over-tighten. Estimated Value.
2

Thermostat Housing Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (9 N·m)
Important Notes
Use new gasket. Tighten evenly. Do not overtighten, which can cause leaks. Estimated value.

Lubrication System

Specifications for lubrication system components, including oil drain plug.

1

Oil Drain Plug Bolt

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Use a new crush washer. Do not overtighten, which can damage the oil pan threads. Estimated value.
2

Oil Filter Cap

N/A
Torque Value
0 ft-lbs (0 N·m)
Important Notes
Hand-tighten. Do not overtighten. Ensure O-ring is in good condition.

Timing System

Specifications for timing system components, including chain tensioners and camshaft sprockets.

1

Timing Belt/Chain Tensioner Bolt

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper tensioner engagement. Torque to specification.
2

Camshaft Sprocket Bolt

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
60 ft-lbs (81 N·m)
Important Notes
Use new bolts. Ensure proper alignment of camshaft and crankshaft. Torque to specification.
3

Camshaft Position Sensor Bolt

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper seating of sensor. Do not overtighten. Estimated value.
4

Variable Valve Timing (VANOS) Solenoid Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (9 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the O-rings are properly seated on the solenoid. Do not overtighten. Estimated value.

Alternator Mounting

Specifications for alternator mounting bolts.

1

Alternator Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure alternator is correctly positioned before tightening. Do not overtighten. Estimated value.

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 when working on the 4.4L engine?

Torque specifications ensure proper clamping force on bolted connections. Over-tightening can damage threads, warp components, and cause failure. Under-tightening can lead to leaks, loosening, and component failure. Precise torque values, as specified by BMW, are crucial for the engine's reliability and longevity. For instance, the cylinder head bolts need to be torqued correctly to maintain proper compression and prevent head gasket failure.

Q2

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

Without a torque wrench, it is extremely difficult to accurately apply the required torque. Guessing or 'hand-tightening' can easily lead to over or under-tightening, both of which can have serious consequences, such as stripped threads on bolts holding the oil pan, leading to oil leaks, or cracked engine components. Using a torque wrench ensures that bolts are tightened to their intended specifications.

Q3

Do I need to replace bolts after removing them?

Some bolts, especially those subject to high stress or critical clamping, are designed to stretch when torqued to their specification (torque-to-yield bolts). These bolts should always be replaced after removal. Examples on the 4.4L engine include head bolts and connecting rod bolts. Always consult the BMW repair manual to confirm which bolts need replacement. Reusing these bolts can result in improper clamping force and potential engine damage.

Q4

How do I find the specific torque values for the 4.4L engine bolts?

The most accurate torque specifications can be found in the official BMW repair manual for your specific 2011-2017 M5 model. These manuals usually contain detailed diagrams, step-by-step instructions and the exact torque values. Do not rely on generic torque specifications, as they may not be accurate for this specific high-performance engine. Websites may also provide details, but ensure the information comes from a reliable source. Double check against the official manual if you can.

Q5

What are the common torque specifications to remember for DIY maintenance on the 4.4L Engine?

While specifics vary by model year, some common areas include: Spark plugs (typically between 23-30 Nm), oil drain plug (around 25 Nm), and intake manifold bolts (around 10-15 Nm). It's important to check the exact specifications for the specific part and engine variant. Remember, the proper torque for the cylinder head bolts are more complex and can vary based on the tightening method.

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 calibrated torque wrench for accurately tightening bolts to specified torque values.

  • Wide torque range suitable for engine components
  • Click-type or digital display for accurate readings
Learn more

Torque Wrench (3/8" Drive)

A calibrated torque wrench for accurately tightening smaller bolts to specified torque values.

  • Suitable for smaller bolts and tighter spaces
  • Click-type or digital display for accurate readings
Learn more

Socket Set (Metric)

A set of metric sockets to fit the various bolt heads on the engine.

  • Comprehensive range of sizes
  • 6-point sockets for secure grip
Learn more

Socket Extensions

Various socket extensions to access bolts in difficult locations.

  • Different lengths to suit access requirements
  • Durable construction
Learn more

Swivel Adapters

Swivel adapters to allow access to bolts at angles.

  • Allows for angled torque application
  • Durable construction
Learn more
Service Procedures

Cylinder Head Bolt Tightening Procedure

Procedure for correctly tightening the cylinder head bolts on the 4.4L V8 engine.

  • Clean cylinder head and block surfaces
  • Install new cylinder head bolts, lubricated with engine oil
  • Tighten all bolts to 30 Nm in the specified sequence
  • Tighten all bolts to 60 Nm in the specified sequence
  • Tighten all bolts an additional 90 degrees in the specified sequence
  • Tighten all bolts an additional 90 degrees in the specified sequence
View full procedure

Connecting Rod Bolt Tightening Procedure

Procedure for correctly tightening the connecting rod bolts on the 4.4L V8 engine.

  • Clean connecting rod cap and rod surfaces
  • Install new connecting rod bolts, lubricated with engine oil
  • Tighten all bolts to 20 Nm
  • Tighten all bolts an additional 70 degrees
View full procedure

Main Bearing Cap Bolt Tightening Procedure

Procedure for correctly tightening the main bearing cap bolts on the 4.4L V8 engine.

  • Clean main bearing cap and block surfaces
  • Install new main bearing bolts, lubricated with engine oil
  • Tighten all bolts to 20 Nm
  • Tighten all bolts an additional 70 degrees
View full procedure

Intake Manifold Bolt Tightening Procedure

Procedure for correctly tightening the intake manifold bolts on the 4.4L V8 engine.

  • Position the intake manifold on the engine.
  • Install intake manifold bolts
  • Tighten all bolts to 20 Nm in a crisscross pattern.
View full procedure

Exhaust Manifold Bolt Tightening Procedure

Procedure for correctly tightening the exhaust manifold bolts on the 4.4L V8 engine.

  • Position the exhaust manifold on the engine.
  • Install exhaust manifold bolts.
  • Tighten all bolts to 23 Nm in a crisscross pattern.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Cylinder Head Bolt Stretch and Failure

2016-03-15

Bulletin regarding reported instances of cylinder head bolt stretch or failure in certain 4.4L V8 engines. Check for bolt stretch or damage during engine work.

2011-2014

Resolution: Replace cylinder head bolts with updated part number during service.

Connecting Rod Bolt Issue

2015-09-22

Technical bulletin addressing potential issues with connecting rod bolts. Replacement recommended at high mileages.

2011-2016

Resolution: Replace connecting rod bolts with updated part number during service. Do not reuse bolts

Oil Pan Bolt Fatigue

2017-01-10

Bulletin concerning oil pan bolt fatigue and leakage issues on the 4.4L V8 engine. Inspect bolts for damage and corrosion.

2011-2017

Resolution: Replace bolts with updated part number and proper torque application

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
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Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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