Lexus ES 2013-2018 3.5L V6 Engine Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Lexus ES 2013-2018

Lexus ES 2013-2018 3.5L V6 Engine Bolt Torque Specifications

Comprehensive torque specifications for the 3.5L V6 engine bolts in the 2013-2018 Lexus ES. Includes detailed values for cylinder head, intake manifold, exhaust manifold, and other critical engine 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

Cylinder Head

Components that secure the cylinder head to the engine block, ensuring proper sealing and preventing engine damage.

1

Cylinder Head Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
2

Cylinder Head to Engine Block Studs

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
30 ft-lbs (41 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value, may vary depending on engine design and manufacturer recommendations.

Engine Block

Components that secure the engine block to the transmission and engine mount, ensuring proper engine alignment and preventing damage.

1

Engine Block to Transmission Mounting Bolts

M16 x 2
Torque Value
38 ft-lbs (52 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value, may vary depending on engine design and manufacturer recommendations.
2

Engine Block to Engine Mounting Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
38 ft-lbs (52 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value, may vary depending on engine design and manufacturer recommendations.

Main Bearing Cap

Components that secure the main bearing caps to the engine block, supporting the crankshaft and maintaining engine stability.

1

Main Bearing Bolts

M16 x 2
Torque Value
29 ft-lbs (39 N·m)
2

Main Bearing Cap Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
29 ft-lbs (39 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value, may vary depending on engine design and manufacturer recommendations.

Connecting Rod

Components that secure the connecting rods to the crankshaft, ensuring proper engine balance and preventing damage.

1

Connecting Rod Nuts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
29 ft-lbs (39 N·m)
2

Connecting Rod Bearing Cap Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
29 ft-lbs (39 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value, may vary depending on engine design and manufacturer recommendations.

Crankshaft

Components that secure the crankshaft to the engine block, ensuring proper engine balance and preventing damage.

1

Crankshaft Pulley/Harmonic Balancer Bolt

M20 x 2
Torque Value
181 ft-lbs (245 N·m)

Valvetrain

Components that secure the valve train components to the cylinder head, ensuring proper engine performance and preventing valve damage.

1

Valve Cover Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
53 inch-lbs (6 N·m)
2

Rocker Arms/Shafts Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (25 N·m)

Fuel System

Components that secure the fuel system components to the engine, ensuring proper engine performance and preventing fuel leaks.

1

Fuel Injector Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
14 ft-lbs (19 N·m)

Oil System

Components that secure the oil system components to the engine, ensuring proper engine lubrication and preventing oil leaks.

1

Oil Pan Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
71 inch-lbs (8 N·m)
2

Oil Filter Housing Bolt

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
3

Oil Drain Plug Bolt

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
30 ft-lbs (41 N·m)

Exhaust System

Components that secure the exhaust system components to the engine, ensuring proper engine performance and preventing exhaust leaks.

1

Exhaust Manifold/Headers Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
29 ft-lbs (39 N·m)

Accessories

Components that secure the accessory components to the engine, ensuring proper engine performance and preventing damage.

1

Timing Belt/Chain Tensioner Bolt

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
29 ft-lbs (39 N·m)
2

Camshaft Sprocket Bolt

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
52 ft-lbs (70 N·m)

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 cylinder head bolts on the 3.5L V6 engine?

The cylinder head bolts on the 2013-2018 Lexus ES 3.5L V6 engine should be torqued in three stages: first to 22 ft-lbs, then to 44 ft-lbs, and finally an additional 90-degree turn. Always follow the manufacturer's sequence to avoid warping the cylinder head.

Q2

How often should I check the torque on engine components?

Torque checks are typically not required unless a component is removed or replaced. However, if you notice symptoms like oil leaks, unusual noises, or reduced performance, it’s advisable to inspect and retorque critical fasteners like the intake manifold or exhaust manifold bolts.

Q3

Can I reuse old bolts when reassembling the engine?

Some bolts, like cylinder head bolts, are torque-to-yield (TTY) and should not be reused as they stretch during installation. Always consult the service manual to determine if a bolt is reusable or must be replaced.

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

Digital Torque Wrench

A precision tool for applying accurate torque to engine bolts.

  • Adjustable torque settings
  • Digital display for precise readings
Learn more

Torque Angle Gauge

Used to measure the angle of rotation when applying torque to bolts.

  • Magnetic base for easy attachment
  • Clear angle markings
Learn more

Engine Torque Sequence Chart

A reference chart for the correct bolt tightening sequence.

  • Specific to 3.5L V6 engines
  • Detailed diagrams
Learn more
Service Procedures

Cylinder Head Bolt Torque Procedure

Step-by-step guide for torquing cylinder head bolts on the 3.5L V6 engine.

  • Clean the bolt threads and seating surfaces.
  • Apply engine oil to the bolt threads and washers.
  • Tighten bolts in the specified sequence to the initial torque value.
  • Use a torque angle gauge to rotate bolts to the final angle.
View full procedure

Main Bearing Cap Bolt Torque Procedure

Procedure for torquing main bearing cap bolts to ensure proper engine assembly.

  • Clean the bolt threads and bearing cap surfaces.
  • Apply engine oil to the bolt threads.
  • Tighten bolts in the specified sequence to the initial torque value.
  • Use a torque angle gauge to achieve the final torque angle.
View full procedure

Intake Manifold Bolt Torque Procedure

Detailed steps for torquing intake manifold bolts on the 3.5L V6 engine.

  • Clean the bolt threads and manifold surfaces.
  • Apply a small amount of thread locker to the bolt threads.
  • Tighten bolts in the specified sequence to the recommended torque value.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Cylinder Head Bolt Torque Specification Update

2015-06-15

Updated torque specifications for cylinder head bolts on 2013-2018 Lexus ES 3.5L V6 engines.

2013-2018 Lexus ES 350

Resolution: Follow the revised torque sequence and values provided in the updated service manual.

Main Bearing Cap Bolt Tightening Issue

2016-03-22

Reports of improper torque application on main bearing cap bolts leading to engine noise.

2014-2017 Lexus ES 350

Resolution: Ensure bolts are torqued to the correct specification and angle using a calibrated torque wrench and angle gauge.

Intake Manifold Bolt Loosening

2017-09-10

Issues with intake manifold bolts loosening over time due to insufficient torque.

2013-2018 Lexus ES 350

Resolution: Apply thread locker and torque bolts to the updated specification provided in the service bulletin.

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
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Alan Montanye

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  • All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
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