Parts for your 2017 Subaru Exiga-Wheel studs nuts

2017 Subaru Exiga wheel studs and nuts — what they do and how to look after them

Based on technical sources — namely the Subaru Electronic Parts Catalogue for the Exiga/Crossover 7 (2015–2018) and the Subaru Workshop Manual (Wheels and Tyres section) — the 2017 Subaru Exiga is fitted with pressed-in wheel studs and separate wheel nuts (M12 × 1.25), not wheel bolts. That makes wheel studs and nuts directly relevant to this model.

On the 2017 Subaru Exiga, the wheel studs and nuts form the clamping system that secures each wheel to the hub. The studs are press-fitted into the hub flange, the wheel slides over them, and the nuts draw the wheel hard against the hub face. Done up to the correct torque (around 120 N·m as specified in Subaru service literature for this platform), the clamping force keeps the wheel centred and stable over Aussie and Kiwi roads, from school runs to long open-road kilometres.

Good practice for servicing includes keeping stud threads clean and dry (no oil or anti-seize, as this alters torque), and tightening the nuts in a star pattern using a calibrated torque wrench. Many owners will see value in a quick re-torque after 50–100 km anytime a wheel’s been off, especially after new tyres or a rotation.

When inspecting, technicians look for stretched or corroded studs, damaged threads, and nuts with worn conical seats. Subaru uses a 60-degree taper-seat nut, mismatched seats (e.g., mag/flat-seat) can compromise clamping and should be avoided. If a stud is cross-threaded or snapped, it’s typically pressed out from the back and a new one drawn in, this usually needs the brake rotor off and sometimes a little extra clearance at the hub, depending on side and model variant.

• Signs attention is needed:
  • Clicking, knocking, or a wheel that won’t stay torqued
  • Visible rust pitting or stretched/necked studs
  • Nuts that run rough or won’t seat smoothly
• Service tips for longevity:
  • Clean hub faces so wheels sit flat
  • Hand-start every nut to avoid cross-threading
  • Use impact tools only to snug, final torque by wrench
  • Replace nuts in sets if seat wear is evident

Owners of the Exiga (known in some markets as the Crossover 7) can expect straightforward maintenance: keep everything clean, use the right seat type and thread pitch, and stick to the factory torque. That’s the recipe for wheels that stay put and studs that last.

Popular questions about 2017 Subaru Exiga wheel studs and nuts

What torque should the wheel nuts be tightened to?
Subaru’s service information for this platform specifies about 120 N·m. Technicians tighten in a criss-cross pattern and recheck after a short drive. Using clean, dry threads helps the torque wrench give an accurate clamp load.

Can a single broken wheel stud be replaced, or does the whole hub need changing?
One damaged stud can usually be replaced on its own. The brake caliper and rotor are removed, the old stud is pressed out, and a new stud is drawn in from behind the hub. Hub replacement is only needed if the stud bore or hub flange is damaged.

What thread and seat type do the Exiga’s wheel nuts use?
The 2017 Exiga uses M12 × 1.25 thread with a 60-degree conical (tapered) seat. Using the correct seat type is essential for proper clamping and to avoid damaging the wheel.