Wheel Lug Stud Replacement
What is a wheel stud?
Wheel lug studs are large bolts that project from the wheel hub, and allow the lug nuts to hold the wheels onto the wheel hub.
How does the wheel stud work?
Most non-European cars use wheel lug studs, which are pressed into the back of the wheel hub, and project outward from the wheel hub. European models use lug bolts that screw into the wheel and wheel hub from the outside, and pinch the wheel to the hub.
What are the symptoms related to a bad wheel stud?
When failure occurs, the wheel studs break off. Before then, you might notice that the studs are rusted or otherwise damaged.
Can I drive with a wheel stud problem?
Driving a vehicle missing a wheel lug stud is a bad idea, and can be dangerous. If the car is missing just one stud, you should be able to safely drive it to a repair facility. But don't wait long, as there's an increased chance the other lug studs will fail due to overloading.
How often do wheel studs need to be replaced?
Wheel lug studs break fairly commonly, but it's usually caused by overtightening, rust or vandalism. The chances of a wheel stud randomly becoming an issue are slim on most cars. In location where the roads are salted, the studs may rust and break more frequently.
How are wheel stud issues diagnosed?
Any time the wheel is inspected or removed, the studs should be checked. Check the back of the hub to ensure the heads of the studs are in good condition.
How is a wheel stud replaced?
On brake rotors with hub assemblies attached, the wheel, brake caliper, its mounting bracket, and rotor assembly would have to be removed before replacing the studs.
For sealed wheel bearing and hub assemblies, the wheel, axle nut, brake caliper, brake caliper mounting bracket, brake rotor and CV axle are removed. This provides clearance to remove the hub assembly and replace the wheel studs.
RepairPal recommendations for wheel stud issues
We recommend using OEM or better wheel studs. Wheel studs should be tightened exactly to manufacturer specification every time they are tightened.
Can I replace the wheel stud myself?
This is a doable project for an experienced DIYer, but it does involve lifting the car and removing a good number of braking parts. But no specialty tools are required.
If you can't get the car lifted safely, a repair shop can handle this job.