How To Fix Cross Threaded Lug Nut

Updated date:

Jan 17, 2019

Fixing a Sheared-Off or Cross-Threaded Lug Stud (With Video)

Comment

Hardlymoving writes about do-it-yourself automobile maintenance on various makes and models.

In this article, which includes a video, I will show you how to deal with both a sheared-off lug stud—a lug stud that breaks into the lug nut because it was cross-threaded on too tight—and a lug stud that has to be replaced because the threads are stripped beyond repair.

This is what a new replacement lug stud looks like.

The reason why I do all my own auto repair and service is not that I'm super cheap... it's that most shops assign simple services to their newest entry-level technicians, and they often mess it up. They torque on oil pan bolts with a powered impact tool and then you can't get the bolt off again, or the oil pan threads get damaged. Or doing a tire rotation, they use the wrong-size impact socket, which rounds off the lug nut points so that the next time, the correct-sized socket won't work. Or they put on the lug nut with a power impact tool without bothering to screw it on by hand first, and so they cross-thread the lug studs.

I may sound somewhat critical. People do make mistakes. But when I mess up, I take ownership of the mishap and fix it. Or if I can't for some reason, I inform the customer, and they're generally forgiving because they appreciate my honesty. The low-level technicians, on the other hand, will keep torquing down the nut or bolt until it's tight—and leave the problem for the next guy to fix.

This 2.5-minute video with step-by-step instructions shows the replacement of a broken lug stud and a lug stud with stripped threads on a 2004 Honda Accord. The steps are also described below.

I. Remove the Brake Caliper Assembly and Brake Rotor

I'm assuming your car has disc brakes on all four corners.

1. Remove the brake caliper assembly off the steering knuckle (front wheel) or knuckle (rear wheel) of the car. Support the assembly so as to not put stress on the brake hose.

2. Remove the brake rotor. If the rotor is stuck, a few sharp blows with a ball peen hammer between the lug studs should vibrate the rotor loose.

II. Punch out the Damaged Lug Stud(s)

The studs have connection splines that allows a tight fit inside the wheel hub hole. There are specialty tools that can press out the lug studs, but a few sharp blows with a hammer works for me. The hammer blows will not damage the wheel bearings.

III. Install the New Stud Lugs

If the steering knuckle or a wheel hub/bearing assembly does not allow the head of the new lug stud to angle into the wheel hub hole, you can grind off a portion of the head to allow clearance into the wheel hub hole. If the brake dust shield is also in the path of the new lug stud, and the dust shield cannot be removed (like on the Honda), see if there's a low point on the shield that can be bent to allow a path for the lug stud. A few light taps with a hammer is all you should need to get the lug stud through the wheel hub hole.

IV. Torque the Stud Lug Into the Wheel Hub

Place a spacer, like an oversized nut, between the stud lug protruding out of the wheel hub hole and screw on the lug nut.
Apply torque to the lug nut (preferably with a powered impact tool) to pull the splines on the lug stud into the wheel hub hole.
When the head of the stud is flush with the wheel hub, you're done.

This article is accurate and true to the best of the author's knowledge. Content is for informational or entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for personal counsel or professional advice in business, financial, legal, or technical matters.

The Pros and Cons of Homeless Full-Time RV and Van Life

Living full time in an RV sounds like fun. Let's see. When life spins out of control and you are overwhelmed with debt and bills, bailing out and reducing your living costs may be the only chance you have. I was forced to live full time in an RV to survive. I will break down the associated costs.

The Big List of Cool Car Names

If you're thinking about trying to come up with some cool car name ideas for your vehicle, then this is the article to give you a jump start on the process.

Winter RV Living: Selecting the Best Portable Space Heater

Looking for the best space heater for your RV this Winter? Follow along with me as I provide research and reviews of the most popular space heater types on the market. Don't spend another frigid night with your old, inefficient space heater.

Best Classic American Fastest Muscle Cars of the 60's.

Factual description and specifications of the top muscle cars from the 60's and 70's. What's fastest? Chev, Dodge Ford, AMX, Pontiac, Hemi, Cuda, Chevelle, GTO, Mustang, Firebird, Camaro, Roadrunner, Corvette, Challenger, Trans-Am, Fairlane, Galaxie, Oldsmobile, Dart, GTS, Wildcat, Z-28, Nova?

The EV Revolution

A look at the history of electric vehicles and two of the main options today, the Chevy Bolt and Tesla Model 3.

Why Traffic Scientists Want You to Cut People Off

We've all been in this situation: you're going home from the hospital after a serious injury caused by a fan throwing bricks at you as a joke, and you notice that the right lane is about to stop due to the construction of a new McBurger Wendy's, and you're stuck in traffic.

EGR Valve Location

Learn about the EGR valve location in your vehicle with this practical guide, whether yours is vacuum or electronically operated.