Dodge Journey 2009-2020 Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Dodge Journey 2009-2020

Dodge Journey 2009-2020 Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed torque specifications for suspension bolts on the 2009-2020 Dodge Journey, including front and rear suspension components.

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 Suspension

The front suspension system includes components such as struts, control arms, ball joints, and tie rod ends. Proper torque application is critical for maintaining alignment, handling, and safety.

1

Strut/Shock Absorber Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the strut or shock absorber to the chassis. Ensure proper alignment during installation.
2

Lower Strut Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
70 ft-lbs (95 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar components. Secures the lower end of the strut to the steering knuckle or control arm.
3

Upper Strut Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the upper strut mount to the chassis. Ensure proper alignment during installation.
4

Control Arm Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Important Notes
Secures the control arm to the chassis. Follow the specified torque sequence to ensure even clamping force.
5

Ball Joint Nut

M12 x 1.25
Torque Value
50 ft-lbs (68 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the ball joint to the control arm and steering knuckle. Ensure proper alignment during installation.
6

Tie Rod End Nut

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the tie rod end to the steering knuckle. Ensure proper alignment during installation.
7

Sway Bar Link Nut

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the sway bar link to the sway bar and suspension. Ensure proper alignment during installation.
8

Steering Gear/Rack Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Important Notes
Secures the steering rack to the chassis. Follow the specified torque sequence to ensure even clamping force.

Rear Suspension

The rear suspension system includes components such as shock absorbers, control arms, trailing arms, and sway bars. Proper torque application is critical for maintaining alignment, handling, and safety.

1

Rear Shock Absorber Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the rear shock absorbers to the chassis and suspension components. Ensure proper alignment during installation.
2

Rear Sway Bar Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Secures the rear sway bar to the chassis. Ensure proper alignment during installation.
3

Rear Control Arm Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Important Notes
Secures the rear control arms to the chassis and suspension components. Follow the specified torque sequence to ensure even clamping force.
4

Rear Trailing Arm Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Important Notes
Secures the rear trailing arms to the chassis and suspension components. Follow the specified torque sequence to ensure even clamping force.

Wheels

The wheel assembly includes components such as wheel lug nuts. Proper torque application is critical for ensuring the wheels remain securely attached to the hubs.

1

Wheel Lug Nuts

M12 x 1.5
Important Notes
Secures the wheels to the hubs. Follow the specified torque sequence to ensure even clamping force.

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 2009-2020 Dodge Journey?

The torque specifications vary depending on the specific suspension component. For example, the front strut-to-knuckle bolts typically require 125-150 ft-lbs, while the rear shock absorber bolts may require 70-90 ft-lbs. Always refer to the official Dodge Journey service manual for precise values.

Q2

How often should suspension bolts be checked for proper torque?

Suspension bolts should be checked during routine maintenance, such as tire rotations or alignment services, or after any suspension-related repairs. Additionally, inspect them if you notice unusual noises, vibrations, or handling issues while driving.

Q3

Can I reuse suspension bolts after removal?

It is generally recommended to replace suspension bolts after removal, as they are often torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts designed for one-time use. Reusing them can compromise the integrity of the suspension system and lead to failure.

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 a nut or bolt.

  • Adjustable torque settings
  • Calibrated for accuracy
Learn more

Socket Set

A set of sockets and attachments for use with a torque wrench.

  • Various sizes for different bolts
  • Durable construction
Learn more

Thread Locker

A chemical compound used to secure threaded fasteners.

  • Prevents loosening due to vibration
  • Available in different strengths
Learn more
Service Procedures

Front Suspension Bolt Torque Specifications

Procedure to apply the correct torque to front suspension bolts on a 2009-2020 Dodge Journey.

  • Lift the vehicle and secure it on jack stands.
  • Remove the front wheels to access the suspension components.
  • Use a torque wrench to tighten the lower control arm bolts to 125 ft-lbs.
  • Tighten the strut-to-knuckle bolts to 95 ft-lbs.
  • 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 2009-2020 Dodge Journey.

  • Lift the vehicle and secure it on jack stands.
  • Remove the rear wheels to access the suspension components.
  • Use a torque wrench to tighten the rear shock absorber bolts to 75 ft-lbs.
  • Tighten the rear trailing arm bolts to 120 ft-lbs.
  • Reinstall the wheels and lower the vehicle.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Suspension Bolt Loosening Issue

2015-08-15

Some 2009-2015 Dodge Journey models may experience loosening of suspension bolts due to insufficient torque during assembly.

2009-2015 Dodge Journey

Resolution: Inspect and retorque all suspension bolts to the specified values. Apply thread locker if necessary.

Front Strut Noise and Vibration

2018-03-22

Owners of 2016-2018 Dodge Journey models may report noise and vibration from the front suspension due to improperly torqued strut bolts.

2016-2018 Dodge Journey

Resolution: Check and retorque the front strut-to-knuckle bolts to 95 ft-lbs. Replace any damaged components.

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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