Audi Audi S5 2017-present Brake System Bolt Torque Specifications
Detailed torque specifications for all brake-related bolts on the 2017-Present Audi S5 (B9) platform. Includes caliper bolts, rotor screws, and other relevant hardware.
Important Information
Safety guidelines and reference information for proper torque application
Safety First
- Always verify torque specifications with your vehicle's factory service manual
- Use properly calibrated torque wrenches
- Replace all torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts - they are single-use only
- When in doubt, consult a professional mechanic
Quick Reference Guide
Quick Reference Guide
Common Torque Patterns
Star Pattern
Used for wheels and other circular bolt patterns
Cross Pattern
Used for gaskets and cover plates
Sequential Pattern
Used for head bolts and other critical components
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Over-tightening
Exceeding the specified torque value can stretch or break fasteners, damage threads, or crack components.
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.
Follow the manufacturer's specified torque sequence pattern.
Dirty Threads
Dirt, rust, or old thread locker can affect torque readings and proper fastener tension.
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.
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.
Check if specs are for dry or lubricated threads. Use specified lubricant when required.
Recommended Tools
Recommended Tools
Torque Wrench (1/4" Drive)
Torque Wrench (3/8" Drive)
Torque Wrench (1/2" Drive)
Angle Gauge
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 system components, including calipers, rotors, and related sensors.
1 Caliper Mounting Bolts (Front)
M14 x 1.5
Caliper Mounting Bolts (Front)
M14 x 1.5Torque Value
Important Notes
2 Caliper Guide Pin Bolts (Front)
M8
Caliper Guide Pin Bolts (Front)
M8Torque Value
Important Notes
3 Brake Disc Retaining Bolt (Front)
M6
Brake Disc Retaining Bolt (Front)
M6Torque Value
Important Notes
4 Brake Hose Banjo Bolt (Front Caliper)
M10
Brake Hose Banjo Bolt (Front Caliper)
M10Torque Value
Important Notes
5 ABS Sensor Bolt (Front)
M6
ABS Sensor Bolt (Front)
M6Torque Value
Important Notes
Rear Brakes
Torque specifications for the rear brake system components, including calipers, rotors, electronic parking brake, and related sensors.
1 Caliper Mounting Bolts (Rear)
M12
Caliper Mounting Bolts (Rear)
M12Important Notes
2 Caliper Guide Pin Bolts (Rear)
M8
Caliper Guide Pin Bolts (Rear)
M8Torque Value
Important Notes
3 Brake Disc Retaining Bolt (Rear)
M6
Brake Disc Retaining Bolt (Rear)
M6Torque Value
Important Notes
4 Brake Hose Banjo Bolt (Rear Caliper)
M10
Brake Hose Banjo Bolt (Rear Caliper)
M10Torque Value
Important Notes
5 Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) Motor Bolts
M6
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) Motor Bolts
M6Torque Value
Important Notes
6 ABS Sensor Bolt (Rear)
M6
ABS Sensor Bolt (Rear)
M6Torque Value
Important Notes
Wheel Fasteners
Torque specification for wheel lug bolts/nuts.
1 Wheel Lug Bolts/Nuts
M14 x 1.5
Wheel Lug Bolts/Nuts
M14 x 1.5Torque Value
Important Notes
Troubleshooting Guide
Common issues, diagnostic steps, and prevention guidelines
Common Issues
Bolt stretching, stripped threads, uneven torque patterns
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
Diagnostic Steps
Visual inspection, torque verification, thread assessment
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
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
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
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 are correct torque specifications important for brake bolts?
Why are correct torque specifications important for brake bolts?
Correct torque ensures that brake components are securely fastened. Under-torquing can lead to loosening, causing vibrations, noises, and potential component failure, resulting in a loss of braking power. Over-torquing can stretch or damage the bolts, leading to stripping of threads, or even breakage which also compromises safety. Improperly torqued brake components present a serious safety hazard.
Q2 What happens if I over-torque a brake caliper bolt?
What happens if I over-torque a brake caliper bolt?
Over-torquing a brake caliper bolt can cause several issues. Most commonly, it can stretch the bolt beyond its yield point, weakening it and making it prone to failure. It can also damage the threads in the caliper or the mounting bracket, requiring replacement of these components. In a real-world scenario, you might find it difficult to remove the bolt in the future and more seriously, it can fail while driving, leading to a catastrophic brake failure.
Q3 Do I need to use new bolts every time I work on my brakes?
Do I need to use new bolts every time I work on my brakes?
It is generally recommended to replace one-time-use bolts, such as those found in the caliper brackets, whenever they are removed. This is due to the stretching and potential weakening of the bolt during its first use. Reusing these bolts increases the risk of failure and is a safety hazard. For other bolts, they can be inspected for thread damage and/or stretching. Follow Audi's specific recommendations for your S5.
Q4 What type of lubricant should I use on brake bolts?
What type of lubricant should I use on brake bolts?
When reinstalling brake bolts, use a small amount of the specific type of anti-seize compound recommended by Audi. Using the incorrect lubricant or too much lubricant can affect the torque value and potentially compromise the fastening. Anti-seize is primarily used to prevent rust, and the correct amount will prevent under-torquing when applying torque to the nut/bolt.
Q5 How often should I inspect the torque of my brake components?
How often should I inspect the torque of my brake components?
It is advisable to check the torque of brake components periodically, especially after any maintenance or repair work, and as part of routine maintenance checks. Also, if you have reason to believe something is amiss, this should be performed immediately. Following Audi's specified maintenance schedule will indicate the appropriate service intervals and procedures for your model of S5.
Environmental Considerations
Temperature, humidity, and seasonal effects on torque specifications
Temperature Effects
Includes: High Heat, Cold Weather, Thermal Cycling
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
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
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
A calibrated torque wrench is essential for applying precise torque to brake components, preventing over-tightening or under-tightening.
- 1/2 inch drive
- Range of 10-150 ft-lbs (or equivalent Newton meters)
Socket Set
A comprehensive socket set is needed to match the various bolt and nut sizes used on the brake system.
- Metric sockets
- Includes deep sockets
Torx Bit Set
A set of Torx bits will be necessary for certain brake system components.
- T30, T40, T45, T50 included
- Secure fit
Service Procedures
Front Brake Caliper Removal and Installation
Procedure for removing and installing front brake calipers, including proper torque specifications.
- Loosen lug nuts, lift vehicle, and remove wheels.
- Disconnect the brake wear sensor connector (if applicable).
- Loosen and remove the two caliper guide bolts.
- Remove the caliper from the rotor. Be careful not to damage the brake line.
- Install new brake pads into the caliper.
- Clean caliper mounting surfaces and guide bolts.
- Reinstall the caliper. Tighten the caliper guide bolts to the specified torque.
- Reconnect the brake wear sensor connector.
- Reinstall the wheels, lower vehicle, and tighten lug nuts to the specified torque.
Front Brake Caliper Carrier Removal and Installation
Procedure for removing and installing the front brake caliper carrier including proper torque specifications.
- Loosen lug nuts, lift vehicle, and remove wheels.
- Remove brake caliper as described in the previous section.
- Remove the two caliper carrier bolts.
- Remove the carrier from the vehicle.
- Clean caliper carrier mounting surface and bolts.
- Install the carrier and torque bolts to the specified torque.
- Reinstall the brake caliper as described in the previous section.
- Reinstall the wheels, lower vehicle, and tighten lug nuts to the specified torque.
Rear Brake Caliper Removal and Installation
Procedure for removing and installing rear brake calipers, including proper torque specifications.
- Loosen lug nuts, lift vehicle, and remove wheels.
- Disconnect the brake wear sensor connector (if applicable).
- Loosen and remove the two caliper guide bolts.
- Remove the caliper from the rotor. Be careful not to damage the brake line.
- Install new brake pads into the caliper.
- Clean caliper mounting surfaces and guide bolts.
- Reinstall the caliper. Tighten the caliper guide bolts to the specified torque.
- Reconnect the brake wear sensor connector.
- Reinstall the wheels, lower vehicle, and tighten lug nuts to the specified torque.
Rear Brake Caliper Carrier Removal and Installation
Procedure for removing and installing the rear brake caliper carrier including proper torque specifications.
- Loosen lug nuts, lift vehicle, and remove wheels.
- Remove brake caliper as described in the previous section.
- Remove the two caliper carrier bolts.
- Remove the carrier from the vehicle.
- Clean caliper carrier mounting surface and bolts.
- Install the carrier and torque bolts to the specified torque.
- Reinstall the brake caliper as described in the previous section.
- Reinstall the wheels, lower vehicle, and tighten lug nuts to the specified torque.
Technical Service Bulletins
Brake Caliper Bolt Loosening Issue
2020-07-15Some 2017-2019 S5 models have experienced issues with brake caliper bolts loosening over time. This may result in increased brake noise and vibration.
Resolution: Inspect all brake caliper bolts and replace them with new bolts, applying the correct torque specifications and thread locking compound.
Brake Pad Wear Sensor Connector Corrosion
2021-03-22Brake pad wear sensor connectors on certain 2018-2020 S5 vehicles are susceptible to corrosion, leading to intermittent sensor failures.
Resolution: Inspect the brake pad wear sensor connector and replace if corroded. Apply dielectric grease to prevent future corrosion.
Rotor Runout and Vibration
2023-01-10Reports of excessive rotor runout causing vibration during braking on 2020-2023 S5 models, even when new components are installed.
Resolution: Inspect the wheel hubs and rotor mating surface, and correct any runout before installing new rotors. Always use proper torque specs during installation.
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Technical Information
- All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
- Vehicle specifications and procedures may vary by model year, trim level, and region.
- Always follow the manufacturer's recommended procedures and safety precautions.
- Working on vehicles can be dangerous. Always take proper safety precautions and use appropriate safety equipment.
- If you're unsure about any procedure, consult a qualified professional mechanic.