Audi Audi RS5 2010-2016 Brake System Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Audi Audi RS5 2010-2016

Audi Audi RS5 2010-2016 Brake System Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed torque specifications for all brake-related bolts on the 2010-2016 Audi RS5 (B8) platform, including caliper bolts, rotor bolts, and associated hardware.

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

Front Calipers

Torque specifications for the front brake caliper and related components. This includes mounting bolts, guide pins, and related fasteners.

1

Front Caliper Mounting Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Important Notes
Critical for securing the caliper to the hub/upright. Use a cross pattern tightening sequence.
2

Front Caliper Guide Pin Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the guide pins, ensuring smooth caliper movement. Apply a small amount of silicone grease to the guide pins.
3

Front Brake Disc Retaining Bolt

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
This bolt secures the rotor to the hub during assembly. It is not load bearing during braking.
4

Front Brake Hose Banjo Bolt

M10 x 1
Torque Value
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
Important Notes
Connects the brake line to the caliper. Always use new crush washers.
5

Front Brake Pad Wear Sensor Screw

M6 x 1
Torque Value
6 ft-lbs (8 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the pad wear sensor to the caliper. Estimated value.

Rear Calipers

Torque specifications for the rear brake caliper and related components. Includes mounting bolts, guide pins, and parking brake actuator.

1

Rear Caliper Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Important Notes
Critical for securing the caliper to the hub/upright. Use a cross pattern tightening sequence.
2

Rear Caliper Guide Pin Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the guide pins, ensuring smooth caliper movement. Apply a small amount of silicone grease to the guide pins.
3

Rear Brake Disc Retaining Bolt

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
This bolt secures the rotor to the hub during assembly. It is not load bearing during braking.
4

Rear Brake Hose Banjo Bolt

M10 x 1
Torque Value
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
Important Notes
Connects the brake line to the caliper. Always use new crush washers.
5

Parking Brake Caliper Actuator Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
15 ft-lbs (20 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the electric parking brake actuator to the rear caliper. Estimated value.
6

Parking Brake Caliper Bracket Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
45 ft-lbs (61 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the parking brake bracket to the hub/upright. Estimated value.

Brake Lines And Sensors

Torque specifications for brake line mounting brackets and wheel speed sensors.

1

Brake Line Mounting Bracket Bolts (Chassis)

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the brake lines to the chassis. Estimated value.
2

Wheel Speed Sensor Bolt (Front/Rear)

M6 x 1
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the wheel speed sensor to the hub or knuckle. 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 is using the correct torque specification for brake bolts so important?

Using the correct torque specification is crucial for brake system safety and performance. Over-tightening can stretch or break bolts, potentially leading to brake component failure. Under-tightening can cause bolts to loosen during operation, resulting in brake malfunction or even complete loss of braking. Correct torque ensures consistent clamping force, preventing vibration, movement, and premature wear of brake parts. For example, if a caliper mounting bolt is under-torqued, the caliper may shift under heavy braking, leading to uneven pad wear and a potential loss of braking efficiency. Using a calibrated torque wrench is essential for accuracy.

Q2

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

While using a torque wrench is highly recommended, if you absolutely must proceed without one, you can try to tighten bolts to a 'snug' fit, but **DO NOT** over-tighten. A snug fit means tightening until the bolt is secure and doesn't easily move, but no further. This method is inaccurate and not recommended for critical components like brakes. Always prioritize getting access to a calibrated torque wrench before working on brakes. After initial installation using a non-torque method, drive slowly and carefully to a shop and have the bolts re-torqued to the correct specification immediately. Remember, incorrect torque can have disastrous consequences for your braking system.

Q3

Do I need to replace brake bolts every time I remove them?

While it is not strictly mandatory to replace every brake bolt each time they are removed *if they are in good condition*, it is **highly recommended** by Audi and most brake system manufacturers, particularly for bolts that are torque-to-yield (TTY). TTY bolts are designed to stretch slightly when tightened to their specified torque. This stretch makes the bolts more secure and prevents them from loosening, however, TTY bolts should only be used once. Reusing these bolts can lead to unpredictable clamping force and potential failure. Even non-TTY bolts, especially those in a high-heat or vibration environment, may become fatigued or corroded over time. Replacing brake bolts with new ones ensures optimal clamping force and long-term reliability of the system. Check your specific service manual to determine if bolts are intended for single use.

Q4

How often should I check the torque of my brake bolts?

It is advisable to check the torque of brake bolts after any brake work, such as pad replacement or rotor service. A good practice is to double-check after a few test drives, typically within 50-100 miles, after which the torque should hold constant. For regular maintenance checks, it is generally recommended to inspect all critical brake components and ensure bolt security during regular vehicle servicing, such as oil changes, or tire rotations. However, if you do not work on your own vehicle's brakes, have these checks be part of the services performed by a qualified technician.

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 accurately tightening bolts to the specified torque values, preventing over or under-tightening.

  • 1/2" drive for larger fasteners
  • Adjustable torque range to cover all brake components
  • Click-type mechanism for accurate torque application
Learn more

Torque Wrench (3/8" Drive)

A smaller torque wrench is useful for smaller brake components like caliper bolts and brake line fittings

  • 3/8" drive for smaller fasteners
  • Adjustable torque range to cover smaller brake components
  • Click-type mechanism for accurate torque application
Learn more

Socket Set (Metric)

A complete set of metric sockets is required to fit all the different sized bolts and nuts on the brake system.

  • Comprehensive range of metric socket sizes
  • Durable construction
  • Both shallow and deep sockets
Learn more

Wrench Set (Metric)

A complete set of metric wrenches is useful for accessing hard to reach nuts and bolts on the brake system.

  • Comprehensive range of metric wrench sizes
  • Durable construction
  • Open end and box end options
Learn more

Brake Caliper Wind Back Tool

Specialized tool used to retract brake caliper pistons when replacing brake pads.

  • Properly retracts brake pistons
  • Prevents damage to calipers
  • Applicable for rear calipers with parking brake mechanism
Learn more
Service Procedures

Front Brake Caliper Bolt Torque Procedure

Detailed steps for torquing the front brake caliper bolts on an Audi RS5.

  • Clean all bolts and threads of debris.
  • Position the caliper correctly over the brake pads.
  • Hand tighten the caliper bolts.
  • Using a torque wrench, tighten the upper caliper bolt to 190 Nm (140 lb-ft).
  • Tighten the lower caliper bolt to 190 Nm (140 lb-ft).
  • Double-check torque values on all bolts.
View full procedure

Rear Brake Caliper Bolt Torque Procedure

Detailed steps for torquing the rear brake caliper bolts on an Audi RS5.

  • Clean all bolts and threads of debris.
  • Position the caliper correctly over the brake pads.
  • Hand tighten the caliper bolts.
  • Using a torque wrench, tighten the upper caliper bolt to 170 Nm (125 lb-ft).
  • Tighten the lower caliper bolt to 170 Nm (125 lb-ft).
  • Double-check torque values on all bolts.
View full procedure

Brake Rotor Retaining Bolt Torque Procedure

Detailed steps for torquing the brake rotor retaining bolt on an Audi RS5.

  • Clean the rotor retaining bolt and threads of debris.
  • Position the brake rotor properly on the hub.
  • Hand tighten the retaining bolt.
  • Using a torque wrench, tighten the retaining bolt to 10 Nm (7 lb-ft).
  • Double-check torque values.
View full procedure

Brake Caliper Carrier Bolt Torque Procedure

Detailed steps for torquing the brake caliper carrier bolts on an Audi RS5.

  • Clean all bolts and threads of debris.
  • Position the caliper carrier correctly on the hub.
  • Hand tighten the carrier bolts.
  • Using a torque wrench, tighten the bolts to 190 Nm (140 lb-ft).
  • Double-check torque values.
View full procedure

Brake Hose Bracket Bolt Torque Procedure

Detailed steps for torquing the brake hose bracket bolts on an Audi RS5.

  • Clean all bolts and threads of debris.
  • Position the bracket correctly on the caliper.
  • Hand tighten the bracket bolts.
  • Using a torque wrench, tighten the bolts to 25 Nm (18 lb-ft).
  • Double-check torque values.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Brake Squeal Issue

2014-06-15

Some 2010-2016 RS5 models experience brake squeal due to improper bedding of new brake pads or glazing on rotor surfaces.

2010-2016 Audi RS5

Resolution: Verify proper brake pad bedding procedure, ensure rotors are within spec and perform rotor resurfacing if necessary. Ensure calipers are properly torqued and slide pins are greased

Caliper Bolt Loosening

2017-02-28

Some instances of caliper bolt loosening have been reported. Ensure all bolts are tightened to the correct torque specification.

2010-2016 Audi RS5

Resolution: Replace any damaged or corroded bolts. Apply thread-locking compound to the caliper bolts upon reassembly and confirm proper torque.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

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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