Lexus IS 2006-2013 3.5L V6 Engine Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Lexus IS 2006-2013

Lexus IS 2006-2013 3.5L V6 Engine Bolt Torque Specifications

Comprehensive bolt torque specifications for the 3.5L V6 engine in the 2006-2013 Lexus IS. Includes detailed torque values for cylinder head bolts, main bearing caps, connecting rod bolts, and more.

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 and valvetrain

Components that secure the cylinder head and valvetrain to the engine block, ensuring proper sealing and engine operation.

1

Cylinder Head Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
28 ft-lbs (38 N·m)
2

Valve Cover Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (9.5 N·m)
3

Rocker Arms/Shafts Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24.4 N·m)

Engine block and crankshaft

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

1

Main Bearing Bolts

M14 x 2.0
Torque Value
30 ft-lbs (40.7 N·m)
2

Connecting Rod Nuts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
29 ft-lbs (39.3 N·m)
3

Crankshaft Pulley/Harmonic Balancer Bolt

M16 x 2.0
Torque Value
174 ft-lbs (235.9 N·m)

Timing system

Components that secure the timing system, ensuring proper engine operation and preventing damage.

1

Timing Belt/Chain Tensioner Bolt

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
21 ft-lbs (28.5 N·m)
2

Camshaft Sprocket Bolt

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
57 ft-lbs (77.3 N·m)

Intake and exhaust system

Components that secure the intake and exhaust system, ensuring proper engine operation and preventing leaks.

1

Intake Manifold Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
16 ft-lbs (21.7 N·m)
2

Exhaust Manifold/Headers Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
30 ft-lbs (40.7 N·m)

Engine accessories

Components that secure engine accessories, ensuring proper engine operation and preventing damage.

1

Water Pump Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
80 in-lbs (9 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value, may vary depending on the specific engine and application.
2

Thermostat Housing Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
80 in-lbs (9 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value, may vary depending on the specific engine and application.

Engine mounts and sensors

Components that secure engine mounts and sensors, ensuring proper engine operation and preventing damage.

1

Engine Mounting Bolts

M14 x 2.0
Torque Value
40 ft-lbs (54.2 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value, may vary depending on the specific engine and application.
2

Crankshaft Position Sensor Bolt

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
10 ft-lbs (13.6 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated value, may vary depending on the specific engine and application.

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 cylinder head bolts on the 3.5L V6 engine?

The cylinder head bolts on the 2006-2013 Lexus IS 3.5L V6 engine should be torqued in three stages: first to 25 Nm, then to 50 Nm, and finally to 90 Nm. Always follow a criss-cross pattern to ensure even pressure distribution.

Q2

How often should I check the torque on engine bolts?

Engine bolts should be checked during routine maintenance or after significant engine work. For the 3.5L V6 engine, it's recommended to check torque specs every 20,000 miles or after any repairs involving the engine block or cylinder head.

Q3

Can improper torque affect engine performance?

Yes, improper torque can lead to leaks, uneven pressure, and even engine failure. For example, under-torqued cylinder head bolts may cause coolant leaks, while over-torqued bolts can damage the engine block.

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

High-precision torque wrench for accurate bolt tightening

  • Adjustable torque settings
  • Digital display for real-time readings
Learn more

Socket Set

Comprehensive socket set for various bolt sizes

  • Includes both metric and standard sizes
  • Durable construction for long-term use
Learn more

Torque Angle Gauge

Tool for measuring the angle of torque application

  • Precision angle measurement
  • Compatible with most torque wrenches
Learn more
Service Procedures

Engine Bolt Torque Application

Detailed procedure for applying correct torque to engine bolts

  • Ensure all bolts are clean and free from debris
  • Use the digital torque wrench to apply the specified torque in a criss-cross pattern
View full procedure

Verification of Bolt Tightness

Procedure to verify that all bolts are tightened correctly

  • Use the torque angle gauge to verify the angle of application
  • Re-check torque settings on each bolt using the digital torque wrench
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Engine Bolt Torque Specification Update

2012-05-15

Updated torque specifications for the 3.5L V6 engine bolts

2006-2013 Lexus IS

Resolution: Apply updated torque settings as specified in the new bulletin

Recall for Incorrect Bolt Torque Application

2011-08-20

Recall issued for models with incorrect bolt torque application

2006-2013 Lexus IS

Resolution: Re-torque all engine bolts to specifications outlined in the recall document

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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