Audi Audi S5 2007-2016 Brake System Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Audi Audi S5 2007-2016

Audi Audi S5 2007-2016 Brake System Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed torque specifications for brake components on the 2007-2016 Audi S5 (B8 platform), including caliper bolts, rotor bolts, and bracket bolts.

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 Brakes

Torque specifications for the front brake components, including calipers, carriers, hoses, rotors, and related hardware.

1

Caliper Mounting Bolts (Front)

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
92 ft-lbs (125 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the brake caliper to the caliper carrier. Critical for proper clamping force. Ensure proper thread engagement.
2

Caliper Carrier Bolts (Front)

M14 x 1.5
Important Notes
Attaches the caliper carrier to the wheel hub assembly. Use new bolts. These are stretch bolts and must be replaced upon removal.
3

Brake Hose Banjo Bolt (Front)

M10 x 1.0
Torque Value
26 ft-lbs (35 N·m)
Important Notes
Connects the brake hose to the caliper. Always use new copper washers. Ensure proper alignment before tightening.
4

Brake Disc Retaining Bolt (Front)

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the brake rotor to the hub. Primarily for ease of assembly, not structural. Estimated value.
5

Brake Pad Retaining Pins/Bolts (Front)

M5 x 0.8
Torque Value
3 ft-lbs (4 N·m)
Important Notes
Small pins/bolts holding the brake pads in the caliper. Estimated value, do not over-tighten.
6

Brake Pad Sensor Screw(s)

M4 x 0.7
Torque Value
1.5 ft-lbs (2 N·m)
Important Notes
Retains the brake pad wear sensor. Estimated value, do not over-tighten.

Rear Brakes

Torque specifications for the rear brake components, including calipers, carriers, hoses, rotors, and related hardware.

1

Caliper Mounting Bolts (Rear)

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
48 ft-lbs (65 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the rear brake caliper to the caliper carrier. Critical for proper clamping force.
2

Caliper Carrier Bolts (Rear)

M12 x 1.5
Important Notes
Attaches the rear caliper carrier to the wheel hub assembly. Use new bolts. These are stretch bolts and must be replaced upon removal.
3

Brake Hose Banjo Bolt (Rear)

M10 x 1.0
Torque Value
26 ft-lbs (35 N·m)
Important Notes
Connects the brake hose to the caliper. Always use new copper washers.
4

Brake Disc Retaining Bolt (Rear)

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the brake rotor to the hub, primarily for ease of assembly. Estimated value.
5

Parking Brake Cable Bracket Bolt (Rear)

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (25 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the parking brake cable bracket to the caliper or trailing arm. Estimated value.
6

Brake Pad Retaining Pins/Bolts (Rear)

M5 x 0.8
Torque Value
3 ft-lbs (4 N·m)
Important Notes
Small pins/bolts holding the brake pads in the caliper. Estimated value, do not over-tighten.
7

Brake Pad Sensor Screw(s)

M4 x 0.7
Torque Value
1.5 ft-lbs (2 N·m)
Important Notes
Retains the brake pad wear sensor. Estimated value, do not over-tighten.

Additional Components

Torque specifications for other brake system components, such as ABS sensors, brake line fittings and bleeder screws.

1

ABS Sensor Mounting Bolt

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (10 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the ABS sensor to the wheel hub assembly. Estimated value.
2

Brake Line Fitting (to Flexible Hose)

M10 x 1.0
Torque Value
12 ft-lbs (17 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensures leak-free connection of rigid brake lines to flexible brake hoses. Estimated value. Always use a flare wrench.
3

Brake Caliper Bleeder Screw

M7 x 1.0
Torque Value
5 ft-lbs (7 N·m)
Important Notes
Used to bleed the brake system. Estimated value, avoid over-tightening.

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 important for brake components?

Using the correct torque is critical for ensuring proper brake function and safety. Over-tightening can damage threads, warp components like rotors, or cause fasteners to fail. Under-tightening can lead to components loosening over time, resulting in brake failure. For example, a loose caliper bolt could allow the caliper to shift and damage the rotor or cause uneven braking.

Q2

What happens if I over-tighten a brake caliper bolt?

Over-tightening a brake caliper bolt can stretch or break the bolt, damage the threads in the caliper carrier, and potentially lead to premature component failure. It can also distort the caliper, which will impede the proper function of the brake pads. You might not notice immediate issues, but the weakened bolt could fail suddenly, leading to a dangerous situation.

Q3

Can I use a generic torque setting if I don't have the exact Audi S5 specification?

No, you should never use a generic torque setting for critical components like brakes. Brake systems are engineered with very specific tolerances, and using the wrong torque could result in damage or brake failure. Always refer to the manufacturer's specifications for the Audi S5 or a reliable service manual. For example, a lug nut torqued too low may come loose, leading to wheel damage or loss, while too tight can warp the rotor.

Q4

Do I need to replace brake bolts after removing them?

It's generally recommended to replace certain brake bolts, especially those subjected to high torque, like the caliper carrier bolts. These bolts can stretch when torqued, and reusing them may compromise clamping force. Always consult a service manual to know which bolts should be replaced. For example, some manufacturers recommend replacing the stretch bolts on the caliper carrier each time.

Q5

Should I use threadlocker on brake bolts?

Yes, it is often recommended to use threadlocker on certain brake bolts, especially those securing the caliper or rotor. Threadlocker helps prevent bolts from loosening due to vibration. Use a medium strength threadlocker, and make sure it is rated for the temperature operating range the brakes will experience. Always refer to a workshop manual for guidance.

Q6

How often should I inspect the torque of brake components?

It is a good practice to check the torque of critical brake components after any brake service or repair, usually after about 100 miles of driving, and then regularly with routine maintenance. If you're performing your own maintenance, consider checking them with every oil change. This is especially important after a brake job where the components might have settled and caused bolt tensions to change.

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 specification, preventing damage and ensuring safety.

  • Wide torque range to cover all brake components
  • Audible click or digital readout for accurate tightening
Learn more

Torque Wrench (3/8" Drive)

A smaller torque wrench for smaller fasteners commonly found on calipers and brackets.

  • Lower torque range for smaller bolts
  • Precise torque application for sensitive components
Learn more

Socket Set (Metric)

A comprehensive set of metric sockets is needed to fit various bolt sizes.

  • Includes common sizes for brake components
  • 6-point sockets for optimal grip
Learn more

Wrench Set (Metric)

A set of metric wrenches to aid in holding nuts in place while tightening

  • Common metric sizes for holding nuts while torquing bolts
  • Open-end and box-end wrench options
Learn more
Service Procedures

Front Brake Caliper Bracket Bolt Torque

Procedure for tightening the bolts securing the front brake caliper bracket to the wheel hub assembly.

  • Locate the caliper bracket bolts.
  • Apply a small amount of thread locking compound to the bolt threads
  • Using the correct socket and torque wrench, tighten the bolts to 190 Nm +90 deg.
  • Verify torque using a calibrated torque wrench.
View full procedure

Rear Brake Caliper Bracket Bolt Torque

Procedure for tightening the bolts securing the rear brake caliper bracket to the wheel hub assembly.

  • Locate the rear caliper bracket bolts.
  • Apply a small amount of thread locking compound to the bolt threads.
  • Using the correct socket and torque wrench, tighten the bolts to 120 Nm +90 deg.
  • Verify torque using a calibrated torque wrench.
View full procedure

Front Brake Caliper Guide Pin Bolt Torque

Procedure for tightening the bolts securing the front brake caliper guide pins.

  • Locate the front caliper guide pin bolts.
  • Using the correct socket and torque wrench, tighten the bolts to 35 Nm.
  • Verify torque using a calibrated torque wrench.
View full procedure

Rear Brake Caliper Guide Pin Bolt Torque

Procedure for tightening the bolts securing the rear brake caliper guide pins.

  • Locate the rear caliper guide pin bolts.
  • Using the correct socket and torque wrench, tighten the bolts to 30 Nm.
  • Verify torque using a calibrated torque wrench.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Brake Caliper Bolt Corrosion Issues

2011-05-15

Some Audi S5 models may exhibit premature corrosion of brake caliper bolts due to road salt exposure.

2007-2011

Resolution: Replace affected caliper bolts with updated part numbers and apply anti-corrosion compound. Use specified torque values.

Rear Brake Caliper Bracket Bolt Loosening

2013-11-20

Reports of rear brake caliper bracket bolts loosening on certain Audi S5 models after routine maintenance or extended use.

2012-2014

Resolution: Check and re-torque rear brake caliper bracket bolts to specification. Apply thread locking compound on reinstallation.

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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