2016 Honda CR-V Wheel Lug Nut Torque: What You Need to Know

The correct wheel lug nut torque for a 2016 Honda CR-V is 80 lb-ft (108 N·m). This specification applies to factory wheels and is the standard torque Honda publishes for the model year; using a calibrated torque wrench and a star pattern is recommended to ensure even clamping and safe operation.

The Official Spec

For the 2016 Honda CR-V, Honda specifies tightening wheel nuts to 80 pound-feet (108 newton-meters). This value balances proper clamping force with protection of wheel studs, bearings, and brake components. Over-torquing can stretch studs or warp rotors; under-torquing risks wheel loosening.

Why Proper Torque Matters

Correct torque ensures the wheel seats evenly against the hub, maintains brake rotor alignment, and prevents vibration under braking or at speed. It also helps prevent damage to threads and avoids the possibility of wheels loosening after service.

How to Tighten the Lug Nuts Correctly

Follow a consistent process to achieve the specified torque and even clamping. The steps below outline best practice for a five-lug hub like the CR-V.

1. Hand-start all five nuts to avoid cross-threading.
2. Snug the nuts in a star pattern (1-3-5-2-4) using a wrench, not fully tight.
3. Lower the vehicle so the tire just contacts the ground and won’t spin.
4. Set a calibrated torque wrench to 80 lb-ft (108 N·m).
5. Tighten in the same star pattern to the specified torque.
6. After driving 25–50 miles (40–80 km), recheck torque in the same pattern.

This sequence helps the wheel seat evenly and confirms the torque remains correct after the wheel has heat-cycled and settled.

Tools and Tips

Using the right tools reduces the risk of damage and improves accuracy. The recommendations below cover common items and practices for routine wheel service.

• Use a quality 1/2-inch drive torque wrench calibrated within the last year.
• Avoid final tightening with impact tools; impacts can over-torque or vary results.
• Ensure the hub face and wheel mounting surface are clean and free of corrosion.
• Do not lubricate lug nut threads unless the service manual explicitly instructs; Honda specifies dry threads for this application.
• If using aftermarket wheels or spacers, confirm the torque spec with the manufacturer, but 80 lb-ft is typically still used with OEM studs and nuts.

These practices help achieve accurate, repeatable torque and protect critical components like studs and rotors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced DIYers and shops can fall into habits that compromise safety or component life. Keep an eye out for the pitfalls below.

• Over-torquing with an impact gun, which can deform rotors or stretch studs.
• Skipping the star pattern, leading to uneven wheel seating and vibrations.
• Ignoring a torque recheck after the first few miles, especially after wheel rotations or tire changes.
• Applying anti-seize on threads, which changes friction and effective torque unless specifically accounted for.

Avoiding these missteps helps ensure reliable wheel retention and smooth braking performance.

References

The following sources provide manufacturer specifications and standard service procedures for the 2016 Honda CR-V.

• Honda CR-V 2016 Owner’s Manual: Wheel installation and torque specification (80 lb-ft / 108 N·m).
• Honda Service Information (Tech Info): Standard wheel nut torque for CR-V platforms of this generation.
• Industry service databases (e.g., ALLDATA, Mitchell1) reflecting Honda’s factory torque spec.

Consult the owner’s manual or official Honda service information for the most authoritative details applicable to your specific trim and wheel type.

Summary

Torque the 2016 Honda CR-V’s wheel lug nuts to 80 lb-ft (108 N·m) using a star pattern, a calibrated torque wrench, and clean, dry threads. Recheck after 25–50 miles to confirm proper seating and consistent clamping.

What is the torque on Honda CRV lug nuts?

The lug nut torque for most Honda CR-V models is 80 ft-lbs (foot-pounds). Always use a torque wrench and tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure they are securely fastened and to prevent damage from overtightening or undertightening. It’s best to confirm the exact specification in your vehicle’s owner’s manual, as some CR-V models or specific years may have slightly different torque settings.
 
Steps to Properly Torque Lug Nuts

1. Hand-tighten: the lug nuts first after changing a tire. 
2. Use a torque wrench: to tighten the lug nuts to the specified 80 ft-lbs. 
3. Follow a star pattern: (or cross pattern) when tightening to ensure even pressure and proper seating of the wheel. 
4. Re-torque: the lug nuts after driving 50-100 miles. 

Why Proper Torque is Important 

• Overtightening: can damage the wheel studs, lug nuts, or even the wheel itself.
• Undertightening: can lead to wheel vibration, damage, or in extreme cases, the wheel could come off.

What is the torque spec for a 2016 Honda CRV?

2016 Honda CR-V Specifications & Features

ENGINEERING	LX	Touring
Displacement	2356 cc	2356 cc
Horsepower (SAE net)	185 @ 6400 rpm	185 @ 6400 rpm
Torque (SAE net)	181 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm	181 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm
Bore and Stroke	87 mm x 99.1 mm	87 mm x 99.1 mm

What is the torque on the wheel nut on a 2016 Honda CRV?

80 lbf·ft
The wheel nut torque is 108 N·m (11.0 kgf·m, 80 lbf·ft).
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What is the torque on the bolts on a Honda CRV?

80 lb-ft
Torque Specifications: When installing wheels on a CR-V, the recommended torque specification is 108 Nm (80 lb-ft), which should be applied in a star pattern for proper wheel seating.