GMC Canyon 2015-present Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
GMC Canyon 2015-present

GMC Canyon 2015-present Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed torque specifications for suspension bolts on the 2015-Present GMC Canyon, including upper and lower control arms, sway bar links, and shock absorber 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

Strut Shock Absorber

This subsystem includes all bolts related to the mounting of struts and shock absorbers, which are critical for maintaining suspension alignment, stability, and ride comfort.

1

Strut/Shock Absorber Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
37 ft-lbs (50 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper alignment of the strut or shock absorber before torquing.
2

Lower Strut Mount Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
74 ft-lbs (100 N·m)
Important Notes
Critical for maintaining suspension alignment and preventing noise or failure.
3

Upper Strut Mount Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
37 ft-lbs (50 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensures the strut assembly remains stable and prevents noise or misalignment.

Control Arm Ball Joint

This subsystem includes bolts related to the control arms and ball joints, which are essential for connecting the suspension to the frame and ensuring smooth steering and suspension movement.

1

Control Arm Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
74 ft-lbs (100 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensures stability, alignment, and prevents premature wear or failure of suspension components.
2

Ball Joint Nut

M12 x 1.25
Torque Value
48 ft-lbs (65 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensures smooth steering and suspension movement while preventing joint separation or excessive play.

Steering System

This subsystem includes bolts related to the steering system, which are critical for ensuring precise steering control and alignment.

1

Tie Rod End Nut

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
37 ft-lbs (50 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensures precise steering control and prevents looseness that could lead to alignment issues or steering instability.
2

Steering Gear/Rack Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
74 ft-lbs (100 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensures steering precision and prevents misalignment or failure of the steering system.
3

Steering Knuckle Bolts

M16 x 1.5
Torque Value
129 ft-lbs (175 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensures the knuckle remains securely attached, maintaining alignment and steering precision.

Sway Bar

This subsystem includes bolts related to the sway bar, which is essential for reducing body roll during cornering and maintaining vehicle stability.

1

Sway Bar Link Nut

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
37 ft-lbs (50 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensures the sway bar effectively reduces body roll during cornering and prevents noise or failure.
2

Sway Bar Bracket Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
37 ft-lbs (50 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensures the sway bar remains securely mounted, preventing noise or failure.

Wheel Hub Driveline

This subsystem includes bolts related to the wheel hub and driveline, which are critical for ensuring the wheels remain securely attached and power is transmitted efficiently.

1

Wheel Lug Nuts

M12 x 1.25
Important Notes
Ensures the wheel remains securely attached, preventing accidents due to wheel detachment.
2

Drive Axle/Half Shaft Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
74 ft-lbs (100 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensures power is transmitted efficiently and prevents driveline vibration or failure.
3

CV Joint/Axle Nut

M24 x 1.5
Torque Value
177 ft-lbs (240 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensures the CV joint remains securely attached, preventing driveline failure or wheel detachment.

Trailing Arm

This subsystem includes bolts related to the trailing arms, which are critical for maintaining stability and alignment of the rear suspension.

1

Trailing Arm Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
74 ft-lbs (100 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensures stability and alignment of the rear suspension.

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

What are the torque specifications for the suspension bolts on a 2015-Present GMC Canyon?

The torque specifications vary depending on the specific suspension component. For example, the front lower control arm bolts typically require 129 lb-ft, while the rear shock absorber bolts require 70 lb-ft. Always refer to the vehicle's service manual for exact specifications, as improper torque can lead to component failure.

Q2

How often should I check the torque on suspension bolts?

It is recommended to check the torque on suspension bolts during routine maintenance, such as tire rotations or oil changes, or after driving on rough terrain. Loose bolts can cause uneven tire wear, noise, or even suspension failure.

Q3

Can I reuse suspension bolts after removal?

Some suspension bolts are designed for single use and should be replaced after removal, as they may lose their tensile strength. Always check the service manual for guidance. Reusing torque-to-yield bolts can compromise safety and performance.

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

A precision tool used to apply a specific torque to a fastener, such as suspension bolts.

  • Adjustable torque settings
  • Calibrated for accuracy
Learn more

Socket Set

A set of sockets in various sizes to fit suspension bolts and nuts.

  • Includes both metric and standard sizes
  • Durable construction
Learn more

Breaker Bar

A long-handled tool used to loosen tight bolts before applying torque.

  • High leverage for tough bolts
  • Durable steel construction
Learn more
Service Procedures

Front Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications

Procedure to apply the correct torque to front suspension bolts on a 2015-Present GMC Canyon.

  • Lift the vehicle and secure it on jack stands.
  • Remove the front wheels to access the suspension components.
  • Using a torque wrench, tighten the upper control arm bolts to 111 lb-ft.
  • Tighten the lower control arm bolts to 129 lb-ft.
  • Tighten the sway bar link nuts to 41 lb-ft.
  • Reinstall the wheels and lower the vehicle.
View full procedure

Rear Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications

Procedure to apply the correct torque to rear suspension bolts on a 2015-Present GMC Canyon.

  • Lift the vehicle and secure it on jack stands.
  • Remove the rear wheels to access the suspension components.
  • Using a torque wrench, tighten the leaf spring U-bolts to 85 lb-ft.
  • Tighten the shock absorber bolts to 52 lb-ft.
  • Tighten the sway bar link nuts to 41 lb-ft.
  • Reinstall the wheels and lower the vehicle.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Suspension Bolt Torque Specification Update

2017-05-15

Updated torque specifications for suspension bolts on 2015-2017 GMC Canyon models.

2015-2017 GMC Canyon

Resolution: Refer to the latest service manual for updated torque values and ensure all bolts are tightened to the correct specifications.

Suspension Noise Investigation

2018-08-22

Investigation into suspension noise complaints on 2015-2018 GMC Canyon models.

2015-2018 GMC Canyon

Resolution: Inspect suspension bolts for proper torque and retighten if necessary. Replace any damaged components.

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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