Norbar gives winter tyre torque reminder

Norbar has warned British drivers to check their wheel nut torque if they are changing their vehicles over to winter tyres in the coming weeks.

The advantages of winter tyres have been understood in Europe for many years, with tens of millions of motorists changing their wheels to those fitted with winter tyres in October or November and back again in the spring. In fact, so great is the change in Europe that it creates a significant spike in torque wrench demand from tyre fitters and drivers, eager to ensure that wheel nuts are tightened correctly.

Philip Brodey, an expert in torque at Norbar Torque Tools Ltd, says that the correct wheel nut torque is very important to ensure vehicle and passenger safety. He commented: “Tyre fitters should ensure that their torque wrenches are calibrated and in good working order ready for the increased demand, particularly if we get a cold snap in the coming weeks. Equally as important, if using an impact gun the wheel bolt should not be tightened fully using the pneumatic gun. A properly calibrated torque wrench should be used for the final tightening.”

He continued: “Drivers changing their own wheels should always take note of the recommended wheel nut torque for the vehicle and use a good quality torque wrench. Even for wheels changed at a tyre fitting shop, it is a good idea to check the wheel nut torque if you have a suitable torque wrench and feel confident to do so.  Wheel nuts tightened at tyre fitting shops are often over tightened, which can lead to issues if you find yourself having to change a wheel at the roadside.”