Parts for your 2017 Subaru Outback-Wheel studs nuts

2017 Subaru Outback wheel studs and nuts

Wheel studs and nuts are absolutely used on the 2017 Subaru Outback. Technical references confirm it: the Subaru Owner’s Manual for the 2017 Outback specifies a wheel nut tightening torque of 120 N·m in the Wheels and Tyres section, the Subaru Service Manual for the 2015–2019 Outback/Legacy shows pressed-in wheel studs on each hub secured by conical-seat nuts, and Subaru’s genuine parts catalogue for the BS-series Outback lists individual wheel studs and wheel nuts as service parts. All of that makes wheel-studs-nuts directly relevant to this model.

On this Outback, five M12 × 1.25 studs are pressed into each hub. The wheel locates over the studs and is clamped by five 60° taper (cone-seat) nuts. This setup spreads clamping force evenly, keeps brake rotors seated true, and makes roadside tyre changes quick with minimal fuss.

As part of servicing—after tyre rotations, brake work, or puncture repairs—wheel nuts should be torqued to 120 N·m using a quality torque wrench. Subaru specifies clean, dry threads and seats, no oil, grease, or anti‑seize on studs or nuts, because lubrication can alter friction and lead to over‑clamping or rotor distortion. After any wheel has been off, it’s sensible to re-check torque after 50–100 kilometres.

• Inspect studs for stretched or mushroomed ends, damaged or corroded threads, or any sign a nut won’t hold torque.
• Check nuts for damaged 60° tapers or crushed washers, replace any that are the wrong seat style or have rounded hexes.
• If a stud spins in the hub or a nut cross‑threads, stop. Forcing it can damage the hub—replace the faulty parts instead.

Replacing a stud on a 2017 Outback is a straightforward workshop job. The brake rotor is removed, the damaged stud is pressed or drawn out, and a new genuine‑spec stud is pulled in square and fully seated using a press or a suitable installer tool and spacer. On the rear, the rotor’s drum‑in‑hat handbrake sits just behind the flange, so careful removal avoids nicking the shoes and springs. Always fit new nuts if their seats or threads are suspect, then torque all five nuts evenly in a star pattern to 120 N·m with a calibrated torque wrench.

If wheel locks are fitted, keep the key in the vehicle and torque the lock nut to the same spec as the others.

Popular questions about 2017 Subaru Outback wheel studs and nuts

What’s the correct wheel nut torque for a 2017 Subaru Outback?
Subaru specifies 120 N·m for the wheel nuts on this model. Apply torque to clean, dry threads and conical seats, and re-check after 50–100 kilometres whenever a wheel has been off.

Should anti‑seize be used on Subaru wheel studs?
No. Subaru guidance is to fit the nuts dry. Lubricants and anti‑seize change friction and can result in over‑tightening, uneven clamping, and potential brake rotor issues.

How can someone tell a wheel stud needs replacing?
Look for stripped or rusty threads, a stretched or mushroomed tip, a nut that won’t torque properly, or a stud that spins in the hub. Any of these signs means replacement is due before the next drive.