When servicing a vehicle, every bolt and nut has a recommended tightening torque specified by the vehicle manufacturer. Applying too much or too little torque can lead to damaged threads, loose fasteners, oil leaks, brake issues, or even safety risks.
That's why a torque wrench is one of the most important tools in any professional workshop.
Whether you're changing tyres, replacing brake components, repairing an engine, or servicing suspension parts, using a torque wrench helps ensure every fastener is tightened accurately and consistently.
In this guide, we'll explain why a torque wrench is important, how it differs from an impact wrench, and how to choose the right torque range for different automotive repair jobs.
What Is a Torque Wrench?
A torque wrench is a precision tool designed to tighten bolts and nuts to a specific amount of force, measured in Newton-metres (Nm).
Unlike a normal ratchet or an impact wrench, a torque wrench allows technicians to apply the correct tightening force recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.
This helps prevent damaged threads, broken bolts, warped components, and loose fasteners that may compromise vehicle safety.
Why Is Using the Correct Torque So Important?
Many people believe that tighter is always better.
In reality, over-tightening can damage bolts, strip threads, crack aluminium components, or deform brake parts.
Under-tightening can cause bolts to loosen over time, resulting in vibration, leaks, or even component failure.
Using a torque wrench helps to:
- Improve repair accuracy
- Protect expensive vehicle components
- Reduce the risk of bolt failure
- Ensure consistent tightening
- Increase customer confidence in your workmanship
Torque Wrench vs Impact Wrench
These two tools are often used together, but they serve completely different purposes.
Impact Wrench
An impact wrench is designed for speed. It quickly removes and installs bolts using high torque.
Ideal for:
- Wheel removal
- Suspension work
- General workshop repairs
However, an impact wrench should not be relied on for final tightening, as the actual torque applied can vary depending on the tool, air pressure, battery condition, and operator technique.
Torque Wrench
A torque wrench is used for the final tightening stage to ensure bolts are tightened to the manufacturer's specified torque.
Ideal for:
- Wheel nuts
- Brake components
- Engine repairs
- Suspension assembly
- Steering components
Workshop Tip: Use an impact wrench to install the fasteners quickly, then finish the job with a torque wrench for accurate tightening.
Choosing the Right Torque Wrench
Different repair jobs require different torque ranges. Using a torque wrench close to the middle of its operating range generally provides the best accuracy.
🔧 12–66 Nm Torque Wrench
This range is ideal for precision work and smaller fasteners commonly found on engines and motorcycles.
Common Applications
- Spark Plugs (typically 18–25 Nm)
- Oil Drain Plug (approximately 30–40 Nm)
- Valve Cover Bolts (8–12 Nm)
- Brake Hose Banjo Bolts (25–35 Nm)
- Ignition Coil Bolts
- Water Pump Bolts
- Thermostat Housing
- Timing Cover Bolts
- Intake Manifold Bolts (small engines)
Suitable For
✔ Engine servicing
✔ Motorcycle repairs
✔ Routine maintenance
✔ Precision mechanical work
🔧 25–135 Nm Torque Wrench
This is the most commonly used torque wrench in passenger car workshops and is suitable for a wide range of automotive repairs.
Common Applications
- Passenger Car Wheel Nuts (100–120 Nm)
- Brake Caliper Bracket Bolts (80–120 Nm)
- Brake Caliper Mounting Bolts (30–40 Nm)
- Engine Mount Bolts (70–120 Nm)
- Steering Rack Mounting Bolts
- Suspension Stabiliser Links
- Front Strut Mount Nuts
- Lower Control Arm Bolts
- Drive Shaft Centre Nut (selected passenger cars)
Suitable For
✔ Passenger cars
✔ Tyre shops
✔ General automotive workshops
✔ Brake and suspension repairs
🔧 50–225 Nm Torque Wrench
Designed for larger vehicles and higher torque applications.
Common Applications
- SUV Wheel Nuts (120–150 Nm)
- Pickup Truck Wheel Nuts (130–150 Nm)
- Drive Shaft Axle Nuts (180–220 Nm)
- Heavy Suspension Bolts
- Rear Axle Components
- Leaf Spring U-Bolts
- Commercial Vehicle Repairs
- Fleet Maintenance
Suitable For
✔ SUVs
✔ Pickup trucks
✔ Vans
✔ Commercial vehicles
✔ Heavy-duty workshops
Common Torque Examples in Malaysia
The following are typical examples used on many vehicles in the Malaysian market. Always refer to the manufacturer's workshop manual for the exact specification.
| Vehicle / Component | Typical Torque | Recommended Torque Wrench |
|---|---|---|
| Perodua Myvi Wheel Nuts | ~103 Nm | 25–135 Nm |
| Perodua Axia Wheel Nuts | ~103 Nm | 25–135 Nm |
| Perodua Bezza Wheel Nuts | ~103 Nm | 25–135 Nm |
| Proton Saga Wheel Nuts | ~110 Nm | 25–135 Nm |
| Proton X50 Wheel Nuts | ~120 Nm | 25–135 Nm |
| Toyota Vios Wheel Nuts | ~103 Nm | 25–135 Nm |
| Honda City Wheel Nuts | ~108 Nm | 25–135 Nm |
| Honda Civic Wheel Nuts | ~108 Nm | 25–135 Nm |
| Toyota Hilux Wheel Nuts | ~131 Nm | 50–225 Nm |
| Isuzu D-Max Wheel Nuts | ~131 Nm | 50–225 Nm |
| Ford Ranger Wheel Nuts | ~135 Nm | 50–225 Nm |
| Toyota Hiace Wheel Nuts | ~156 Nm | 50–225 Nm |
| Spark Plug | 18–25 Nm | 12–66 Nm |
| Oil Drain Plug | 30–40 Nm | 12–66 Nm |
| Valve Cover Bolts | 8–12 Nm | 12–66 Nm |
| Brake Caliper Bracket | 80–120 Nm | 25–135 Nm |
| Drive Shaft Axle Nut | 180–220 Nm | 50–225 Nm |
Note: Torque values vary by vehicle model, engine, and year. Always verify the correct specification using the manufacturer's service information.
Common Mistakes When Using a Torque Wrench
Avoid these common mistakes to maintain accuracy and extend the life of your tool:
❌ Using a torque wrench to loosen seized bolts
❌ Using it as a breaker bar
❌ Exceeding the maximum torque range
❌ Not returning the wrench to its minimum setting after use (for click-type torque wrenches)
❌ Dropping or mishandling the tool
❌ Skipping periodic calibration in busy workshops
Proper care helps ensure reliable performance and accurate torque readings.
Which Torque Wrench Should You Choose?
If your workshop mainly services:
- Engine repairs and precision work → 12–66 Nm
- Passenger cars and everyday servicing → 25–135 Nm
- SUVs, pickup trucks, vans, and commercial vehicles → 50–225 Nm
Many professional workshops keep all three sizes to cover a wide range of repair jobs accurately.
Professional Torque Wrenches from SETIA TYRE REPAIR PRODUCT (M) SDN BHD
At SETIA TYRE REPAIR PRODUCT (M) SDN BHD, we supply professional torque wrenches designed for automotive workshops, tyre service centres, and maintenance professionals across Malaysia.
Our available torque wrench ranges include:
- 12–66 Nm – Ideal for precision engine work and smaller fasteners.
- 25–135 Nm – The most versatile choice for everyday passenger vehicle servicing.
- 50–225 Nm – Suitable for SUVs, pickup trucks, vans, and higher-torque applications.
Since 1985, we have been supporting tyre shops, automotive workshops, and fleet maintenance businesses throughout Malaysia with reliable products and practical solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an impact wrench instead of a torque wrench?
No. An impact wrench is ideal for quickly removing and installing fasteners, but the final tightening should always be completed with a torque wrench to achieve the manufacturer's specified torque.
Can one torque wrench do every job?
Not always. A torque wrench is most accurate in the middle of its rated range. Workshops that perform a wide variety of repairs often keep multiple torque wrench sizes for better accuracy.
How often should a torque wrench be calibrated?
For workshops that use torque wrenches daily, calibration is generally recommended at least once a year or according to the manufacturer's usage guidelines.
