Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Impact Wrenches, Using
Impact wrenches are generally allowed for removing bolts and nuts. However, it is not permitted when working inside an open high-voltage battery. Generally, no impact wrenches are permitted for these procedures.
If the following conditions are met, impact wrenches can be used to install bolts and nuts during repair procedures. This is generally intended for electric or pneumatic-powered impact wrenches.
Requirements:
- Bolts with locking fluid or self-locking nuts may only be installed at low speeds.
- Use a suitable impact wrench with an adjustable speed and torque range.
- Use suitable screwdriver bits near delicate surfaces, for example, use plastic-coated bits on aluminum rims.
- Note the Natural Gas Fuel Systems - General Information Repair Instructions when working in a natural gas fuel system area.
Application:
- Position the bolts or nuts by hand.
- Only screw in the bolts or nuts with an impact wrench until the head of the bolt or nut contacts the surface and then continue to turn using a torque wrench.
- Clean the threaded pins before removing the bolt or nut.
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.