Parts for your 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero-Wheel studs nuts

2002 Mitsubishi Pajero wheel studs and nuts — purpose, care and when to replace

Technical references including the Mitsubishi Motors NM/NP Pajero workshop manual (2000–2006) and the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue confirm the 2002 Pajero runs a six-stud hub that uses pressed-in wheel studs with tapered-seat wheel nuts. So wheel studs and nuts are absolutely relevant to this model.

On this Pajero, the studs are splined and pressed into the hub or axle flange, and the nuts clamp the wheel and brake rotor firmly in place. That clamping force is what keeps the wheel true under braking, towing and off-road loads. A stud-and-nut setup also makes wheel changes easier on- and off-road, and is robust for the Pajero’s 4x4 duties. Typical specs for this generation are a 6x139.7 mm bolt pattern with M12 x 1.5 threads and 60° conical-seat nuts, as listed across Mitsubishi service literature and reputable parts catalogues.

Keeping the hardware healthy is simple but important. Threads should be clean and dry, avoid lubricants or anti-seize on the studs or nut seats unless the service manual expressly says otherwise, because lube changes the torque-to-clamp relationship. Always use a torque wrench and tighten in a star pattern to the figure shown in the owner’s/service manual (most NM/NP listings sit around 100–120 Nm). After any wheel-off work, recheck torque after 50–100 km of driving.

• Inspect at every tyre rotation or brake service for stretched threads, rounded hexes, rusty pitting, cracks, or a stud that spins in the hub.
• Replace any damaged stud or nut immediately, mixing seat types (conical vs mag/spherical) is a no-go and can lead to loose wheels.
• For replacement, pressing or drawing the new stud fully home is key — don’t try to seat it by over-tightening a nut. A press or suitable installation tool protects the splines and hub.
• Touring and off-roading? Carry a couple of spare studs and nuts. After water crossings or corrugations, a quick torque check is cheap insurance.

Quality matters. Genuine or high-grade aftermarket studs and nuts that match the Pajero’s thread and seat profile help avoid vibration, brake rotor runout and wheel loss. If unsure, match to Mitsubishi part specifications from the factory manuals or EPC.

What is the correct wheel nut torque for a 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero?

Mitsubishi specifies a dry torque in the owner’s/service manual, most NM/NP Pajero specs are around 100–120 Nm. Use a torque wrench, tighten in a star pattern, and re-check after 50–100 km. If you don’t have the exact figure to hand, consult the vehicle’s manual or workshop data before final tightening.

What thread size and seat type are the Pajero’s wheel nuts?

For the 2002 NM/NP Pajero, listings across Mitsubishi technical literature and parts catalogues show M12 x 1.5 threads with a 60° conical (tapered) seat. Always match the seat style to the wheel, the wrong seat type can loosen off and damage the wheel.

Can anti-seize be used on Pajero wheel studs?

Not on the threads or seats unless Mitsubishi explicitly calls for it. Lubricants change the torque-to-clamp relationship and can lead to over-tightening. If corrosion is a worry, lightly treat the hub centre spigot (not the stud threads) so the wheel doesn’t stick, and keep the threads clean and dry.