BMW M5 2018-present Body Panel & Frame Bolt Torque Specifications
BMW M5 2018-present

BMW M5 2018-present Body & Frame Bolt Torque Specifications

Comprehensive list of body bolt torque specifications for the 2018-Present BMW M5 (F90) generation. Includes torque values for various body panels, mounting points, and structural 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

Fuel System

Torque specifications for components related to the fuel system, ensuring proper and safe operation.

1

Fuel Tank Strap Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
30 ft-lbs (40 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures fuel tank straps to the vehicle underbody. Ensure proper tank support. Estimated bolt size and thread pitch.
2

Fuel Filler Neck Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
10 ft-lbs (14 N·m)
Important Notes
Attaches the fuel filler neck to the body panel. Important for fuel-tight seal. Estimated bolt size and thread pitch.

Exterior Panels

Torque specifications for exterior panels such as fenders, hood, and doors. Proper torque ensures alignment and secure attachment.

1

Fender Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Attaches the fenders to the vehicle's body structure. Estimated torque and bolt size.
2

Hood Hinge Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the hood hinges to the hood and body. Estimated torque and bolt size.
3

Hood Latch Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the hood latch assembly to the body. Estimated torque and bolt size.
4

Door Hinge Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
36 ft-lbs (49 N·m)
Important Notes
Attaches the door hinges to the door and body. Estimated torque and bolt size. Usually self-locking bolts.
5

Door Latch/Striker Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the door latch mechanism to the door and striker to the door frame. Estimated torque and bolt size.
6

Rear Spoiler Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
10 ft-lbs (14 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the rear spoiler to the body. Estimated torque and bolt size.

Bumper And Lights

Torque specifications for bumpers, lights and grilles. Proper torque is important to prevent damage to the plastic components.

1

Bumper Cover Mounting Bolts/Fasteners

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
Important Notes
Connects the bumper covers to the vehicle’s body. Estimated torque and bolt size. Plastic or low-torque bolts.
2

Headlight/Taillight Mounting Bolts/Fasteners

M5 x 0.8
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
Important Notes
Attaches the headlights and taillights to the body. Estimated torque and bolt size.
3

Grille Mounting Bolts/Fasteners

M5 x 0.8
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
Important Notes
Attaches the front grille to the vehicle’s body. Estimated torque and bolt size.

Body Trim

Torque specifications for rocker panels, side skirts and other trim pieces. Proper torque is important to avoid damage to plastic or painted parts.

1

Rocker Panel/Side Skirt Mounting Bolts/Fasteners

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
Important Notes
Connects rocker panels or side skirts to the body. Estimated torque and bolt size.

Roof Components

Torque specifications for the sunroof frame. Precise torque is crucial to prevent leaks and proper function.

1

Sunroof Frame Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the sunroof frame to the vehicle's roof. Estimated torque and bolt size.

Interior

Torque specifications for the seat mounting bolts. Proper torque is vital for passenger safety.

1

Seat Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
30 ft-lbs (40 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the seats to the floor pan. Estimated torque and bolt size. Check for specific torque values in repair manual.

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 is using the correct torque important for body bolts?

Using the correct torque is crucial for several reasons. Under-torquing can cause bolts to loosen over time due to vibration, leading to rattles, misalignments, and even component failure. Over-torquing can stretch or break the bolts, damage the threads, or distort the body panels, potentially causing leaks, stress fractures and expensive repairs. Correct torque ensures optimal clamping force, maintaining structural integrity and alignment.

Q2

Can I reuse body bolts?

Generally, it's best practice to replace body bolts, especially those that are torque-to-yield (TTY) or have locking features. Reusing these bolts can compromise their clamping force and lead to failure. However, standard bolts can sometimes be reused if they are in good condition, but it's always recommended to inspect them for damage or stretching. When in doubt replace.

Q3

What happens if I over-tighten a body bolt?

Over-tightening a body bolt can cause significant damage. It can stretch the bolt beyond its yield point, weakening its structural integrity, and can damage the threads in the body or the bolt itself. It can also distort the metal of the surrounding body panels and lead to fitment issues. Over-torquing can also lead to broken bolts that are a real pain to remove. This can require additional time and cost to repair the damaged parts.

Q4

How do I know if a bolt is torque-to-yield?

Torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts are designed to stretch when tightened, providing a specific clamping force. Typically, TTY bolts will have specific torque procedures which may involve a torque value followed by an additional angle of rotation. These are generally replaced every time they are removed, and the manual for your vehicle will specify if TTY bolts are used for the particular application.

Q5

What should I do if I strip a body bolt?

If you strip a body bolt, do not try to force it. Trying to force a stripped bolt can cause further damage to surrounding components and can make bolt extraction more difficult. There are various methods to remove a stripped bolt, including using bolt extractors, and re-tapping the threads. Depending on the damage, it may require professional assistance. You should always replace a stripped bolt to prevent further issues.

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 is essential for achieving precise fastener torque. A 1/2" drive is recommended for the body components of the BMW M5.

  • Click-type mechanism for accurate torque setting
  • Wide torque range to accommodate various fasteners
  • Durable construction for repeated use
Learn more

Torque Wrench (3/8" Drive)

A smaller torque wrench is useful for certain smaller body components and those with lower torque specifications. A 3/8" drive wrench is suitable for these tasks.

  • Precise torque application for smaller fasteners
  • Compact design for accessing tight spaces
  • Easy to read torque scale
Learn more

Socket Set (Metric)

A comprehensive set of metric sockets, including various sizes and depths, is required to fit the different bolt and nut heads found on the BMW M5 body.

  • Variety of socket sizes (e.g., 8mm, 10mm, 13mm, 16mm, 18mm)
  • Standard and deep sockets for different access requirements
  • Durable chrome vanadium steel construction
Learn more

Torx Socket Set

Many of the body fasteners on a BMW are Torx-type. Having a complete set of Torx sockets is necessary for removal and installation of these fasteners.

  • Variety of sizes (e.g., T20, T25, T30, T40, T45, T50)
  • Allows proper engagement of the torx bolt head
  • Chrome vanadium steel construction
Learn more

Extension Bars (Various Lengths)

Extension bars are necessary to reach recessed or difficult-to-access body bolts, providing clearance for the torque wrench.

  • Variety of lengths to suit different situations
  • Secure connection to sockets and torque wrench
  • Durable construction to withstand high torque loads
Learn more
Service Procedures

Front Bumper Cover Removal and Installation

This procedure details the steps for removing and reinstalling the front bumper cover, including relevant bolt torque specifications for the associated fasteners.

  • Disconnect any electrical connectors (e.g., parking sensors, fog lights).
  • Remove all screws and bolts attaching the bumper cover to the fenders, underbody, and upper fascia.
  • Carefully detach the bumper cover from the vehicle.
  • Align the bumper cover with the mounting points and push into place.
  • Install all bolts and screws, tightening them to the specified torque using the torque wrench.
  • Reconnect all electrical connectors.
  • Double check all fasteners are properly torqued.
View full procedure

Rear Bumper Cover Removal and Installation

This procedure details the steps for removing and reinstalling the rear bumper cover, including relevant bolt torque specifications for the associated fasteners.

  • Disconnect any electrical connectors (e.g., parking sensors, taillights).
  • Remove all screws and bolts attaching the bumper cover to the fenders, underbody, and upper fascia.
  • Carefully detach the bumper cover from the vehicle.
  • Align the bumper cover with the mounting points and push into place.
  • Install all bolts and screws, tightening them to the specified torque using the torque wrench.
  • Reconnect all electrical connectors.
  • Double check all fasteners are properly torqued.
View full procedure

Side Skirt Removal and Installation

This procedure outlines how to remove and install the side skirts, including proper torque specifications for mounting bolts.

  • Remove the screws and bolts securing the side skirt to the chassis.
  • Carefully detach the side skirt from the vehicle.
  • Align the side skirt with the mounting points and push into place.
  • Install all bolts and screws, tightening them to the specified torque using the torque wrench.
  • Double check all fasteners are properly torqued.
View full procedure

Fender Liner Removal and Installation

This procedure details how to remove and install the fender liners, including proper torque for fasteners.

  • Remove the screws and bolts securing the fender liner.
  • Carefully detach the fender liner from the vehicle.
  • Align the fender liner with the mounting points and push into place.
  • Install all bolts and screws, tightening them to the specified torque using the torque wrench.
  • Double check all fasteners are properly torqued.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Possible Creaking Noise from Front Bumper Cover

2019-07-15

Some vehicles may exhibit a creaking noise originating from the front bumper cover. This noise is often due to slight movement at the attachment points.

2018-2019

Resolution: Re-torque all front bumper cover mounting bolts to the specified torque and ensure proper alignment. Consider adding an appropriate adhesive pad at the contact points.

Side Skirt Mounting Bolt Loosening

2020-03-20

Reports indicate that side skirt mounting bolts may loosen over time due to vibrations or thermal expansion. This can cause side skirt misalignment or movement.

2018-2020

Resolution: Inspect all side skirt mounting bolts for proper torque and any signs of wear. Re-torque all bolts according to specifications and consider using a thread-locking compound.

Rear Bumper Cover Alignment Issues

2021-11-10

Some vehicles experience rear bumper cover alignment issues related to loose mounting fasteners. It may be exacerbated by impact with external objects, even at low speeds

2018-2021

Resolution: Check all rear bumper cover mounting points for damage and correct alignment. Re-torque all mounting bolts to spec. Replace any damaged fasteners. Ensure clips and tabs are properly engaged.

About the Author

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