Parts for your 2013 Subaru Tribeca-Wheel studs nuts

2013 Subaru Tribeca wheel studs and nuts

For the 2013 Subaru Tribeca, wheel studs and nuts are absolutely relevant. Subaru’s Factory Service Manual and the Subaru parts catalogue for this model year specify pressed-in M12 x 1.25 wheel studs on the hubs with separate 60° conical-seat wheel nuts. The owner’s manual also references correct wheel nut torque, confirming the Tribeca uses a stud-and-nut system rather than wheel bolts.

On this Tribeca, the studs are the fixed threaded pins on the hub, and the nuts clamp the wheel and brake rotor against the hub face. Their job is dead simple but critical: provide even clamping force so the wheel stays centred and secure through braking, cornering and rough Kiwi and Aussie roads. When properly torqued, they keep the wheel true, protect the wheel bearings and stop annoying vibrations.

As part of routine servicing, it’s worth giving the studs and nuts a quick once-over. Look for crossed threads, stretched or rusty studs, and nuts with chewed-up cones. Any damage or obvious corrosion is a cue to replace. Always refit wheels with a torque wrench to 120 Nm, tightening in a star pattern on each wheel. If a rattle gun is used to run the nuts down, finish with a torque wrench. After tyre rotation or wheel removal, recheck torque after 50–100 km.

• When to replace: visible thread damage, stud stretch (threads necked), seized or heavily corroded hardware, or nuts with deformed seating cones.
• Service tips: clean the hub face and wheel mating surface, avoid lubricating stud threads, a tiny smear of anti-seize on the hub pilot is fine, but keep it off threads and cone seats.

If a stud spins or snaps, it’s pressed out of the hub and a new stud is pressed in from the rear. It’s a straightforward job with the right tools, but if there’s any doubt, a workshop familiar with Subaru hubs will sort it quickly. Use quality M12 x 1.25 conical-seat nuts that match the wheel type (factory alloy or steel) to maintain correct seating and clamping. Treated well, the Tribeca’s studs and nuts will go the distance without fuss.

Popular questions about 2013 Subaru Tribeca wheel studs and nuts

What’s the correct wheel nut torque for a 2013 Tribeca?
Subaru specifies 120 Nm for the Tribeca’s wheel nuts. Tighten in a star pattern on each wheel, then recheck torque after 50–100 km of driving to make sure everything has settled properly.

Can damaged studs or nuts cause wheel vibration?
Yes. Bent or stretched studs, or nuts with damaged cone seats, can prevent even clamping and proper wheel centring, which leads to vibration under braking or at speed. Replacing worn hardware and cleaning the hub and wheel mating faces usually restores smooth running.

Are aftermarket wheels okay with the factory nuts?
Often, yes—provided the wheels use a 60° conical seat and clear the stud length. Some aftermarket alloys need different nuts (e.g., slim-line or different seat style). Always match the nut seat to the wheel seat and keep the M12 x 1.25 thread.