Back-To-Basics: Torque-To-Yield Bolts

Sometimes going back-to-basics can make the difference between a quality repair and a failed repair. Let’s take a look at torque-to-yield bolts.

What is a torque-to-yield bolt? It is a one-time-use fastener that is designed to stretch during the torquing process (installation). Because of this stretching, the integrity of the bolt is compromised. These bolts cannot and should not be reused due to the stress caused to the bolt during its first installation.

It is important to be aware that these bolts will not have the same clamping strength if attempted to be used a second time. Torque-to-yield bolts may break if reused or become loose over time. Some common areas where these bolts are found include cab, pickup box, and suspension mounting locations. It is important to note that most repair manuals refer to these bolts simply as one-time-use fasteners instead of torque-to-yield.

The repair manual should always be referenced to ensure the correct fasteners are being used for a complete, safe, and quality repair.


Related I-CAR Courses

  • One-Time-Use Parts And Fasteners: Genesis Friday, 25 October 2024

    What is a one-time-use part, and how do you determine if a fastener, clip, or part can be reused? These are questions that we are confronted with in the collision industry quite a lot. The other big...

  • OEM Linking Pin: Toyota/Lexus Sectioning Clarification Thursday, 24 October 2024

    As part of the I-CAR Repairability Technical Support (RTS) OEM linking pin activity, we are helping to connect the collision repair industry to the vehicle makers. A common question when it comes to...

  • Refinishing Park Assist Sensors: Jaguar Land Rover Tuesday, 22 October 2024

    Parking sensors are part of the park assist system, just one of many advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) found on vehicles today. Damaged sensors are typically replaced and may require...

  • I-CAR At SEMA 2024 Friday, 18 October 2024

    Attending the SEMA Show in Las Vegas this year? Well, I-CAR will be providing many different opportunities to connect with you at this year’s show.

  • Non-SRS Wiring Repair: BMW/Mini Thursday, 17 October 2024

    What is a non-SRS wiring repair? It is the repairing of an electrical component that is not part of the supplemental restraints system circuit (usually identified by yellow wire looms). As...

  • Paint Maker ADAS Radar Optimized Color Resources: BASF Wednesday, 16 October 2024

    Changes in advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) radar technology are introducing new refinishing considerations. We know that paint film thickness can affect the performance of ADAS radars, but...

  • I-CAR Repairers Realm: Steering Column Inspection After a Collision - Coming Soon Friday, 11 October 2024

    I-CAR is having a discussion on steering column inspection after a collision.

  • Repairer Driven News: BMW Adds Structural Steel Parts To Restricted List Thursday, 10 October 2024

    Repairer Driven News (RDN) has released an article highlighting BMW adding structural steel parts to their restricted list.

  • Ford On Target 2024: Volume 3 Wednesday, 9 October 2024

    Ford has released the third installment of their On Target publication for 2024.

  • Bumper Cover Repair With ADAS: Rivian Friday, 4 October 2024

    A simple bumper repair on a modern vehicle may not be as simple as it seems. New technologies like blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and other advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)...