<P> Lug nuts must be installed in an alternating pattern, commonly referred to as a star pattern . This ensures a uniform distribution of load across the wheel mounting surface . When installing lug nuts, it is recommended to tighten them with a calibrated torque wrench . While a lug, socket or impact wrench may be used to tighten lug nuts the final tightening should be performed by a torque wrench, ensuring an accurate and adequate load is applied . Torque specifications vary by vehicle and wheel type . Both vehicle and wheel manufacturers provide recommended torque values which should be consulted when an installation is done . Failure to abide by the recommended torque value can result in damage to the wheel and brake rotor / drum . Additionally, under tightened lug nuts may come loose with time . </P> <P> In order to allow early detection of loose lug nuts, some large vehicles are fitted with loose wheel nut indicators . The indicator spins with the nut, so that it can be detected with a visual inspection . </P> <P> In countries where the theft of alloy wheels is a serious problem, locking nuts (or bolts, as applicable) are available - or already fitted by the vehicle manufacturer - which require a special adaptor ("key") between the nut and the wrench to fit and remove . The key is normally unique to each set of nuts . Only one locking nut per wheel is normally used, so they are sold in sets of four . Most designs can be defeated using a hardened removal tool which uses a left - hand self - cutting thread to grip the locking nut, although more advanced designs have a spinning outer ring to frustrate such techniques . </P> <P> In the United States, vehicles manufactured by the Chrysler Corporation used left - hand and right - hand screw thread for different sides of the vehicle to prevent loosening prior to the 1975 models . Most Buicks, Pontiacs, and Oldsmobiles used both left - handed and right - handed lug nuts prior to model year 1965 . It was later realized that the taper seat performed the same function . Modern vehicles use right - hand threads on all wheels . </P>

When are wheel lock lug nuts commonly used