Twelve-Point Nut Of Drive Axle Threaded Connection, Loosening And Tightening

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2014 Volkswagen Touareg, 2013 Volkswagen Touareg, 2012 Volkswagen Touareg, and 2011 Volkswagen Touareg. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special Tools And Workshop Equipment Required

Drive Axle Socket - 32mm: T10209
Torque Wrench 1601:VAG1601

CAUTION:

The wheel bearing must not be under a load while the drive axle threaded connection on the wheel side is loose.

If the wheel bearings are under the load of the vehicle weight, the wheel bearing will be damaged. This reduces the service life of the wheel bearings.

The 12-point nut may only be loosened a maximum of 90° when the vehicle is resting on its wheels.

Vehicles without a drive axle must not be moved, otherwise the wheel bearing will be damaged. If a vehicle must be moved, be sure to Note The Following:

Install an outer joint in place of the drive axle.
Tighten the outer joint to 150 Nm.

Loosen the 12-Point Nut

-- Loosen the 12-point nut while the vehicle is still resting on its wheels.

-- Use the Drive Axle Socket - 32mm:T10209 to loosen a maximum of 90°. Otherwise the wheel bearing will be damaged.

Vehicles with an Air Spring Shock Absorber

-- Activate the vehicle lift mode and place the vehicle on the lifting platform. Refer to LIFTING THE FRONT AXLE TO THE CURB WEIGHT POSITION .

Continuation for All Vehicles

-- Lift the vehicle just enough so that the wheels are hanging free.

-- Press the brake pedal. A second technician will be needed.

-- Unscrew the 12-point nut -arrow-.

Fig 1: Identifying Wheel Hex Bolt

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.

Screwing on the 12-Point Nut

-- Replace the 12-point nut.

-- Press the brake pedal. A second technician will be needed.

-- Pre-tighten the 12-point nut to 150 Nm.

-- Lower the vehicle onto its wheels.

-- Tighten to 500 Nm.