Volvo Volvo S40 2004-2012 Drivetrain Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Volvo Volvo S40 2004-2012

Volvo Volvo S40 2004-2012 Drivetrain Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed torque specifications for the drivetrain components of the 2004-2012 Volvo S40, including axle bolts, driveshaft bolts, and transmission mounting 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

Engine Transmission Interface

Components that connect the engine to the transmission, ensuring proper alignment and power transfer.

1

Flywheel Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
59 ft-lbs (80 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the flywheel is properly aligned before tightening.
2

Transmission Bellhousing Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
52 ft-lbs (70 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar components. Ensure proper alignment of the transmission to the engine.
3

Torque Converter Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the torque converter is fully seated before tightening.

Transmission Assembly

Components that secure the transmission and its associated parts, ensuring stability and proper fluid containment.

1

Transmission Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
37 ft-lbs (50 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the transmission is properly aligned with the chassis.
2

Transmission Oil Pan Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
5.9 ft-lbs (8 N·m)
Important Notes
Use a torque wrench calibrated for low torque values to avoid over-tightening.
3

Transmission Drain and Fill Plugs

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the sealing washer is in good condition before installation.

Driveshaft And Axles

Components that transfer power from the transmission to the wheels, ensuring secure attachment and alignment.

1

Drive Axle/Half Shaft Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
52 ft-lbs (70 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the axle is properly seated in the transmission or differential.
2

CV Joint/Axle Nut

M24 x 1.5
Torque Value
185 ft-lbs (250 N·m)
Important Notes
Use a torque wrench capable of handling high torque values.
3

Propeller/Drive Shaft Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
44 ft-lbs (60 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the drive shaft is properly aligned with the transmission and differential.

Differential And Transfer Case

Components that manage power distribution to the wheels and ensure proper fluid containment.

1

Differential Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
52 ft-lbs (70 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar components. Ensure the differential is properly aligned with the chassis.
2

Differential Drain/Fill Plug

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the sealing washer is in good condition before installation.
3

Transfer Case Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
37 ft-lbs (50 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value based on similar components. Ensure the transfer case is properly aligned with the chassis.
4

Transfer Case Drain/Fill Plug

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
25 ft-lbs (34 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the sealing washer is in good condition before installation.

Clutch Assembly

Components that manage the engagement and disengagement of the engine and transmission.

1

Clutch Pressure Plate Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure the pressure plate is properly aligned with the flywheel.

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 is the torque specification for the driveshaft bolts on a 2004-2012 Volvo S40?

The driveshaft bolts on a 2004-2012 Volvo S40 typically require a torque of 35 Nm (26 lb-ft) for the front driveshaft and 50 Nm (37 lb-ft) for the rear driveshaft. Always refer to the manufacturer's manual for the exact specifications for your specific model and year.

Q2

How often should I check the torque on drivetrain components?

It is recommended to check the torque on drivetrain components, such as driveshaft bolts and axle nuts, every 30,000 miles or during routine maintenance. Additionally, recheck torque after any drivetrain repair or component replacement to ensure proper tightness and safety.

Q3

Can I reuse drivetrain bolts, or should they be replaced?

Drivetrain bolts, especially those subjected to high stress (e.g., driveshaft or axle bolts), should ideally be replaced during reassembly. Reusing old bolts can lead to failure due to metal fatigue. If reusing, inspect the bolts for wear, stretching, or damage, and ensure they are torqued to the correct specification.

Q4

What happens if I over-torque drivetrain bolts?

Over-torquing drivetrain bolts can cause thread stripping, bolt stretching, or even component damage. This can lead to drivetrain failure, vibrations, or unsafe driving conditions. Always use a calibrated torque wrench and follow the manufacturer's specifications.

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 for applying specific torque values to bolts.

  • Adjustable torque settings
  • Calibrated for accuracy
Learn more

Socket Set

A set of sockets compatible with drivetrain bolts.

  • Metric sizes
  • Durable construction
Learn more

Thread Locker

A chemical compound to secure bolts and prevent loosening.

  • High-strength formula
  • Temperature resistant
Learn more
Service Procedures

Drivetrain Bolt Torque Application

Procedure to apply the correct torque to drivetrain bolts on a 2004-2012 Volvo S40.

  • Ensure the vehicle is securely lifted and supported.
  • Clean the bolt threads and apply thread locker if specified.
  • Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque values.
  • Double-check torque settings and ensure all bolts are properly secured.
View full procedure

Driveshaft Bolt Replacement

Procedure for replacing and torquing driveshaft bolts.

  • Remove the old driveshaft bolts using a socket set.
  • Inspect the bolt holes for damage or wear.
  • Install new bolts and apply the specified torque using a torque wrench.
  • Verify the driveshaft is properly aligned and secured.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Drivetrain Bolt Loosening Issue

2010-05-15

Reports of drivetrain bolts loosening over time on certain models.

2004-2012 Volvo S40

Resolution: Apply thread locker and re-torque bolts to the specified values.

Incorrect Torque Specifications

2008-11-20

Incorrect torque specifications listed in early service manuals.

2004-2008 Volvo S40

Resolution: Refer to updated service manuals for corrected torque values.

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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