---
title: "Best Torque Wrench for Precision Work"
canonical: "https://thetoolwave.com/best-torque-wrench/"
author: "Marcus Vance"
published: "2026-10-22T11:00:00+00:00"
modified: "2026-09-25T10:17:33+00:00"
language: "en-US"
site: "The Tool Wave"
description: "The best best torque wrench is the LEXIVON 1/2Inch Drive Click, the only one here that combines industrialgrade accuracy with a price that doesn't scare…"
categories: "Hand Tools"
attribution: "The Tool Wave (https://thetoolwave.com/)"
---

# Best Torque Wrench for Precision Work

The best **best torque wrench** is the LEXIVON 1/2-Inch Drive Click, the only one here that combines industrial-grade accuracy with a price that doesn't scare off home mechanics. It covers 10 to 150 ft-lb, clicks loud and clear, and has a 4.7-star average across thousands of verified reviews.

 

Want a digital option instead? The ACDelco ARM601-34 gives you buzzer and LED feedback, plus a calibration certificate, as long as you're okay with a slightly heavier tool.

 

*As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.*

 

This guide tells you exactly which torque wrench to buy for your job before you waste money on an off-spec tool. If you're only tightening lug nuts to "uh-huh that's tight enough," you don't need any of these, jump to Who Should NOT Buy below.

 

Everything below comes from current Amazon product data, specs and each product's owner track record, not hands-on lab testing.

 

## Quick Answer: The Best Torque Wrench

 

The LEXIVON 1/2-Inch Drive Click is the top overall pick for accuracy, build, and value.

 

- **[LEXIVON Torque Wrench 1/2-Inch Drive Click](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MP1Q3W8?tag=thetoolwave-20)** (Best Overall Bundle): Best accuracy, loud click, 10-150 ft-lb range.
- **[TEKTON 3/8 Inch Drive Micrometer Torque](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FYHB7XBQ?tag=thetoolwave-20)** (Best Fine-Precision Wrench): Perfect for small fasteners like valve covers or calipers.
- **[ACDelco ARM601-34 3/8” & ½” Heavy](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08V8KFC26?tag=thetoolwave-20)** (Best Digital Combo): Dual-head digital kit with calibration cert.
- **[CRAFTSMAN Digital Torque Wrench](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VVM9FD5?tag=thetoolwave-20)** (Best Budget Digital Pick): 50-250 ft-lb range, clear display, name you trust.
- **[SUZUME Torque Wrench 1/2 3/8 1/4](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D83LBS6Q?tag=thetoolwave-20)** (Best Beginner Set): Three drive sizes in one affordable package.

 

Thinking about "uh-huh that's tight enough" instead? Jump to Who Should NOT Buy below before you spend anything.

 

## Comparison Table

 

Here's the lineup at a glance: photo, product, who it's built for, and our /10 score.

 

| Photo | Product | Best for | Score | Buy |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
|  | LEXIVON Torque Wrench 1/2-Inch Drive Click | Best Overall for DIYers | 9.3/10 | Check price → |
|  | TEKTON 3/8 Inch Drive Micrometer Torque | Fine-Precision Work | 9.0/10 | Check price → |
|  | ACDelco ARM601-34 3/8” & ½” Heavy | Digital Combo Kit | 8.7/10 | Check price → |
|  | CRAFTSMAN Digital Torque Wrench | Big-Torque Digital | 8.4/10 | Check price → |
|  | SUZUME Torque Wrench 1/2 3/8 1/4 | Beginner 3-Size Set | 8.6/10 | Check price → |

*Scroll sideways on small screens to see every column.*

 

## LEXIVON Torque Wrench 1/2-Inch Drive Click: Best Overall for DIYers

 #1[![LEXIVON Torque Wrench 1/2-Inch Drive Click](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81CfTqHkt6L._AC_UL320_.jpg)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MP1Q3W8?tag=thetoolwave-20)[LEXIVON Torque Wrench 1/2-Inch Drive Click](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MP1Q3W8?tag=thetoolwave-20)LEXIVONClick-style, loud and clear**9.3**OUT OF 10Build Quality9.5Accuracy9.0Ease of Use9.2Owner Verdict9.4**The LEXIVON is the wrench that DIYers and weekend mechanics keep coming back to.** It clicks audibly when you hit your target torque, so you don’t need to watch the scale. The handle is knurled metal, not cheap plastic, and it feels solid in hand. Verified buyer feedback across thousands of reviews puts its accuracy at ±4%, which is right on the ASME B107.300 standard for click-type wrenches.Setting the torque is easy: pull down the locking collar, rotate the knurled handle to your desired ft-lb or Nm, and lock it. The scale is laser-etched and easy to read, even in dim garage light. Many owners report using it for lug nuts, suspension bolts, and engine work without issue over years of use.**Flaws but not dealbreakers.** The only real complaint is that the plastic storage case feels a bit flimsy compared to the tool itself. Also, some users wish the range started at 5 ft-lb instead of 10 for very small fasteners. If you need a lower range for delicate work, the [TEKTON 3/8 drive](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FYHB7XBQ?tag=thetoolwave-20) further down covers 5 to 80 ft-lb.⚠**Storage:** The plastic carrying case is adequate but not rugged. Many owners replace it with a padded tool roll.Pros

- ✓Loud click you can hear over engine noise – no guessing needed
- ✓Knurled metal handle provides great grip even with greasy hands
- ✓Dual-range scale (ft-lb and Nm) covers US and metric fasteners
- ✓Lifetime warranty from LEXIVON backs the tool

Cons

- ✕Plastic case feels cheap – upgrade storage yourself
- ✕No calibration certificate included (buyer reports suggest ±4% is typical)
- ✕Lower end of range starts at 10 ft-lb, not for tiny bolts

Drive Size1/2-inchRange10–150 ft-lb / 13.6–203.5 NmAccuracy±4% (manufacturer spec)Weight~1.8 lb**Best for:** Home mechanics who want one wrench that covers lug nuts, suspension bolts, and most engine work without breaking the bank.[Check current price on Amazon →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MP1Q3W8?tag=thetoolwave-20)

## TEKTON 3/8 Inch Drive Micrometer Torque: Best Fine-Precision Wrench

 #2[![TEKTON 3/8 Inch Drive Micrometer Torque](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51RdFMfD8VL._AC_UL320_.jpg)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FYHB7XBQ?tag=thetoolwave-20)[TEKTON 3/8 Inch Drive Micrometer Torque](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FYHB7XBQ?tag=thetoolwave-20)TEKTONMicrometer mechanism, smooth adjustment**9.0**OUT OF 10Build Quality9.0Accuracy9.3Ease of Use8.8Owner Verdict8.9**The TEKTON 3/8 drive is the go-to wrench for anyone who works on small engines, bicycles, or under-hood components with torque specs under 80 ft-lb.** Its micrometer-style adjustment ring lets you dial in precise values with a satisfying detent. The scale is marked in both ft-lb and Nm, and it can be set from 5 to 80 ft-lb. That low end makes it perfect for valve covers, intake manifolds, and other sensitive fasteners.The build is all-steel with a chrome finish that resists rust. Owners rave about the “dual-scale” window that shows both units at once, reducing errors. The reversible ratchet head has a 36-tooth mechanism, giving a 10-degree swing arc for tight spaces. It also comes with a plastic storage case, but many buyers say the case is better than the LEXIVON’s.**Flaws but not dealbreakers.** Some users report the micrometer ring can be slightly stiff when new, and the 3/8-inch square drive limits socket compatibility compared to a 1/2-inch set. If you need a single wrench that tackles everything from wheel nuts to small fasteners, the [LEXIVON 1/2-inch](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MP1Q3W8?tag=thetoolwave-20) above is a better all-rounder, but for precision work this TEKTON wins.⚠**Sizing:** This is a 3/8-inch drive only. If you already have 1/2-inch sockets, you’ll need an adapter or a separate wrench.Pros

- ✓Low range down to 5 ft-lb ideal for delicate fasteners
- ✓Micrometer adjustment is precise and easy to read
- ✓Dual-scale window shows ft-lb and Nm simultaneously
- ✓TEKTON’s customer service is known for quick replacements

Cons

- ✕Adjustment ring can be stiff out of the box
- ✕Ratchet head has 36 teeth – not as fine as some 48-tooth heads
- ✕Plastic case is decent but not rugged enough for job sites

Drive Size3/8-inchRange5–80 ft-lb / 6.8–108.5 NmAccuracy±4% (manufacturer spec)Weight~1.5 lb**Best for:** Home tinkerers, bike mechanics, and DIYers who need to torque small fasteners like valve covers and intake bolts.[Check current price on Amazon →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FYHB7XBQ?tag=thetoolwave-20)

## ACDelco ARM601-34 3/8” & ½” Heavy: Best Digital Combo Kit

 #3[![ACDelco ARM601-34 3/8” & ½” Heavy](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71zUruPUfDL._AC_UL320_.jpg)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08V8KFC26?tag=thetoolwave-20)[ACDelco ARM601-34 3/8” & ½” Heavy](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08V8KFC26?tag=thetoolwave-20)ACDelcoDigital readout, dual heads, audible alert**8.7**OUT OF 10Build Quality8.5Accuracy9.1Ease of Use8.6Owner Verdict8.6**The ACDelco ARM601-34 is the digital torque wrench that includes both 3/8-inch and 1/2-inch heads in one kit, plus a calibration certificate.** You get two interchangeable heads, a digital display with buzzer and LED flash when you hit your target torque, and a storage case. It meets ISO 6789 standards for accuracy, which is a solid claim backed by the included certificate. Verified buyers say it’s especially handy for jobs where you can’t see the scale, like tight engine bays.The display shows torque in ft-lb, Nm, in-lb, and kg-cm. You can set a target value and the tool alerts you with a beep and a red light when you reach it. The heads switch quickly via a push-button release. Many owner reviews mention using it for wheel lugs and suspension work, and the digital readout makes it easy to track peak torque even in odd angles.**Flaws but not dealbreakers.** A few users report that the battery compartment is a bit finicky, and the tool is heavier than click-type wrenches. If you prefer a lighter wrench and don’t need digital readout, the [LEXIVON](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MP1Q3W8?tag=thetoolwave-20) above is simpler and still very accurate. But if you want certified precision and dual-headed versatility, this ACDelco is worth the trade-off.⚠**Battery:** Requires two AAA batteries. Some owners report the battery cover loosens over time – secure it with a small piece of tape if needed.Pros

- ✓Comes with both 3/8″ and 1/2″ heads, saving separate purchases
- ✓Audible and visual alerts let you work without staring at the display
- ✓Calibration certificate included, meets ISO 6789 standards
- ✓Multiple units of measure: ft-lb, Nm, in-lb, kg-cm

Cons

- ✕Heavier than click-type wrenches – ~2.2 lb
- ✕Battery compartment can loosen over time
- ✕Higher price than analog options

Drive Sizes3/8″ and 1/2″ headsRange3/8″: 5–100 ft-lb / ½”: 10–150 ft-lbAccuracy±2% (certified to ISO 6789)Power2x AAA batteries**Best for:** DIYers who want digital accuracy, calibration peace of mind, and the flexibility of two drive sizes in one box.[Check current price on Amazon →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08V8KFC26?tag=thetoolwave-20)

## CRAFTSMAN Digital Torque Wrench: Best Budget Digital Pick

 #4[![CRAFTSMAN Digital Torque Wrench](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51GZCvIC-uL._AC_UL320_.jpg)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VVM9FD5?tag=thetoolwave-20)[CRAFTSMAN Digital Torque Wrench](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VVM9FD5?tag=thetoolwave-20)CRAFTSMANDigital readout, high torque range**8.4**OUT OF 10Build Quality8.0Accuracy8.5Ease of Use8.6Owner Verdict8.3**The CRAFTSMAN digital is for the mechanic who needs a big torque range (50–250 ft-lb) in a digital format without spending premium money.** It has a clear LCD that shows current and peak torque, a target setting mode with beep alert, and the ability to switch between ft-lb, Nm, and in-lb. The 1/2-inch drive head handles everything from wheel lugs to axle nuts.Buyer feedback highlights the easy-to-read display, even in low light, and the reliable beep that signals when you hit your number. The tool stores up to 50 readings in memory, which is handy if you’re torquing multiple fasteners to the same spec without having to reset each time.**Flaws but not dealbreakers.** Some owners mention the plastic housing feels less premium than all-metal wrenches, and the 50 ft-lb minimum excludes smaller jobs like valve covers or intake bolts. If your work often involves low-torque fasteners below 50 ft-lb, consider the [TEKTON 3/8-inch](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FYHB7XBQ?tag=thetoolwave-20) above. But for heavy-duty work on trucks, SUVs, and suspension components, this CRAFTSMAN is a solid digital option at a fair price.⚠**Range:** The 50 ft-lb minimum means this won’t work for small engine work. It’s strictly for big fasteners.Pros

- ✓High torque range up to 250 ft-lb handles truck and SUV lugs
- ✓Digital memory stores up to 50 readings for batch work
- ✓Clear LCD with beep alert makes it easy to use in tight spots
- ✓Brand name with wide parts and service availability

Cons

- ✕50 ft-lb minimum excludes light-duty fasteners
- ✕Plastic housing feels less durable than all-metal rivals
- ✕No calibration certificate included for the price point

Drive Size1/2-inchRange50–250 ft-lbAccuracy±2% (manufacturer spec)Weight~2.0 lb**Best for:** Truck and SUV owners who need high torque for wheel lugs, axle nuts, and suspension bolts in a digital format.[Check current price on Amazon →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VVM9FD5?tag=thetoolwave-20)

## SUZUME Torque Wrench 1/2 3/8 1/4: Best Beginner 3-Size Set

 #5[![SUZUME Torque Wrench 1/2 3/8 1/4](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71pWS1fmw-L._AC_UL320_.jpg)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D83LBS6Q?tag=thetoolwave-20)[SUZUME Torque Wrench 1/2 3/8 1/4](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D83LBS6Q?tag=thetoolwave-20)SUZUMEThree drive sizes, affordable set**8.6**OUT OF 10Build Quality8.2Accuracy8.5Ease of Use8.8Owner Verdict8.7**The SUZUME three-wrench set gives you a 1/4-inch, 3/8-inch, and 1/2-inch drive torque wrench in one package for less than the price of a single premium unit.** Each wrench is a click-type design with a claimed ±3% accuracy. The ranges cover everything from tiny electronics bolts (1/4-inch drive: 20–200 in-lb) up to automotive lugs (1/2-inch drive: 10–150 ft-lb). For a beginner who doesn’t yet know what drive size they’ll need most, this set removes the guesswork.The wrenches come in a blow-molded case with cutouts for each tool. Owner reviews consistently mention that the set is “great value” and that the wrenches feel better than expected for the price. The 3/8-inch and 1/2-inch units have reversible ratchet heads, while the 1/4-inch is a fixed beam style. Many buyers use this set as a start-up kit and later upgrade individual wrenches as their needs grow.**Flaws but not dealbreakers.** The long-term durability isn’t as proven as premium brands like LEXIVON or TEKTON. Some users report that the 1/4-inch wrench’s markings can fade over time. If you need a single wrench that will last a lifetime of heavy use, the [LEXIVON](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MP1Q3W8?tag=thetoolwave-20) above is a better investment. But for a starter set or occasional use, this SUZUME trio is hard to beat.⚠**Durability:** The 1/4-inch wrench’s markings may wear with heavy use. Consider storing it in the case when not in use.Pros

- ✓Three drive sizes cover nearly every fastener you’ll encounter
- ✓Affordable entry point for beginners building their tool set
- ✓Blow-molded case keeps all wrenches organized and protected
- ✓Claimed ±3% accuracy is competitive for the price tier

Cons

- ✕Long-term durability not as proven as premium brands
- ✕1/4-inch wrench uses a fixed beam, not a ratcheting head
- ✕Markings on the 1/4-inch scale may fade over time

Drive Sizes1/4″, 3/8″, 1/2″Ranges1/4″: 20–200 in-lb / 3/8″: 5–80 ft-lb / 1/2″: 10–150 ft-lbAccuracy±3% (manufacturer claim)Includes3 wrenches + blow-molded case**Best for:** Beginners or casual DIYers who want one set that covers small, medium, and large fasteners without spending a fortune.[Check current price on Amazon →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D83LBS6Q?tag=thetoolwave-20)

## Buying Guide: Drive Size, Range, Accuracy and Type

 

### Which drive size do you actually need?

 

The three common drive sizes are 1/4-inch, 3/8-inch, and 1/2-inch. Each serves a different purpose. A 1/4-inch drive is for small fasteners like those on electronics, engine covers, and bicycle components.

 

A 3/8-inch drive is the middle ground, perfect for most automotive work including valve covers, intake manifolds, and brake calipers. A 1/2-inch drive handles high-torque jobs like wheel lugs, suspension bolts, and axle nuts.

 

If you only plan to do one type of job, buy the single wrench that matches. The [LEXIVON 1/2-inch](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MP1Q3W8?tag=thetoolwave-20) covers lug nuts and suspension work. The [TEKTON 3/8-inch](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FYHB7XBQ?tag=thetoolwave-20) is better for lighter engine and brake work.

 

If you're starting from nothing and want one set that does it all, the SUZUME three-wrench set gives you all three sizes at once.

 

### Torque range matters more than you think

 

Every torque wrench has a minimum and maximum value. Operating near the extremes reduces accuracy. A tool rated for 10 to 150 ft-lb is most accurate between roughly 30 and 130 ft-lb.

 

If you routinely need to torque small fasteners down to 5 ft-lb, you cannot use a 1/2-inch wrench that starts at 10 ft-lb. You need a 3/8-inch wrench that goes lower.

 

The models here span from 5 ft-lb (TEKTON and SUZUME 3/8-inch) up to 250 ft-lb (CRAFTSMAN). Think about the highest and lowest torque values you'll actually tighten. For most passenger cars, lug nuts are around 80 to 100 ft-lb.

 

Suspension bolts can go up to 150 ft-lb. Small engine bolts are often 10 to 30 ft-lb. Buy the range that matches your work.

 

### Click-type vs digital: which is better for you?

 

Click-type wrenches use a mechanical mechanism that makes an audible click when you reach the set torque. They are simple, reliable, never need batteries, and are generally less expensive. The trade-off is that you need to be able to hear or feel the click, which can be hard in loud environments.

 

Digital wrenches use a strain gauge sensor and display the torque reading on an LCD screen. They often include target alerts, peak hold, and memory functions. They are more expensive and require batteries, but they are easier to read in poor lighting and can be more precise.

 

The [ACDelco ARM601-34](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08V8KFC26?tag=thetoolwave-20) and the [CRAFTSMAN digital](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VVM9FD5?tag=thetoolwave-20) are good examples. For most DIYers, a click-type wrench is all you need and costs less.

 

### Accuracy standards and calibration

 

Torque wrenches are typically rated at ±3% or ±4% accuracy for click types, and ±2% for higher-end digitals. The ASME B107.300 standard sets the benchmark for mechanical torque tools in the US. A wrench that meets this standard is adequate for nearly all automotive and home work.

 

Calibration certificates are important if you do critical work like engine assembly or racing. The ACDelco ARM601-34 comes with one. Most others do not, but you can have them professionally calibrated for a fee.

 

For typical home use, the manufacturer's claimed accuracy is sufficient as long as you store the wrench at its lowest setting when not in use and avoid dropping it.

 

## Who Should NOT Buy Best Torque Wrench

 

A torque wrench is the wrong purchase for several types of buyers. Here's who they are and what to look at instead.

 

### You Only Tighten Lug Nuts by Feel

 

If you have never stripped a bolt or over-tightened a fastener, and you tighten everything to "really snug with a grunt," you probably won't use a torque wrench. It will sit in its case for years. Instead, invest in a quality breaker bar and a good socket set for general work.

 

If you change your own tires a few times a year, consider a simple and affordable click-type wrench like the [SUZUME 1/2-inch](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D83LBS6Q?tag=thetoolwave-20) in the set above.

 

### You Work Exclusively on Bicycles

 

Torque wrenches for bikes typically need to go down to very low values like 4 to 10 Nm. The wrenches in this list start at about 5 ft-lb (6.8 Nm), which is too high for carbon fiber stems and derailleur bolts. You need a dedicated bicycle torque wrench set that starts as low as 2 Nm.

 

Look for a smaller beam-style or a dedicated bike-specific click wrench that covers 2 to 20 Nm.

 

### You Need a Torque Wrench for Professional Engine Building

 

If you are a professional mechanic building race engines or high-performance motors, you need a high-end digital wrench with certified calibration and traceability to NIST standards. The tools in this list are good for DIY work but lack the precision and documentation required for professional engine shops. You should look at Snap-on, CDI Torque, or Precision Instruments wrenches that cost significantly more.

 

### You Have a Very Tight Budget

 

A torque wrench that costs very little often sacrifices accuracy and durability. If you can only spend a minimal amount, you might be better off buying a used name-brand wrench from a pawn shop or garage sale that you can have calibrated. A [LEXIVON](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MP1Q3W8?tag=thetoolwave-20) is at the lower end of the reliable price range.

 

Anything cheaper than that is a gamble.

 

## Final Verdict

 

The [LEXIVON 1/2-Inch Drive Click](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MP1Q3W8?tag=thetoolwave-20) is the overall best torque wrench for DIYers. It has a loud click, a wide 10 to 150 ft-lb range, great build quality, and a price that beats most competitors. It will handle lug nuts, suspension work, and most engine fasteners for years.

 

Want a wrench for precision work on small fasteners? Get the [TEKTON 3/8-inch](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FYHB7XBQ?tag=thetoolwave-20). Its 5 to 80 ft-lb range and micrometer adjustment are ideal for valve covers, brake calipers, and delicate engine work.

 

Need a digital option with calibration certification? The [ACDelco ARM601-34](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08V8KFC26?tag=thetoolwave-20) gives you two heads, a clear display, and a certificate that meets ISO 6789 standards.

 

If you are starting from scratch with almost no tools and a limited budget, the [SUZUME three-wrench set](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D83LBS6Q?tag=thetoolwave-20) is the smart way to get every drive size at once. For truck owners who need to torque big fasteners, the [CRAFTSMAN digital](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VVM9FD5?tag=thetoolwave-20) reaches up to 250 ft-lb.

 

Still unsure? If you are not doing work that requires precise torque, skip the purchase. Jump back up to Who Should NOT Buy to see if you are better off with a standard ratchet and socket set.

 

## FAQ

 

### What's the best Torque Wrench overall?

 

The LEXIVON 1/2-Inch Drive Click is our top pick. It has a loud mechanical click, covers 10 to 150 ft-lb, and has a 4.7 star average across thousands of verified buyer reviews.

 

### Is a digital torque wrench better than a click type?

 

Not always. Digital wrenches are easier to read in low light and can store readings, but they cost more and need batteries. Click-type wrenches are simpler, more reliable, and usually cheaper.

 

For most DIYers, a click-type wrench is sufficient.

 

### What accuracy do I need for car repairs?

 

±4% accuracy is enough for almost all automotive work including lug nuts and suspension bolts. The LEXIVON and TEKTON both meet this standard. For engine assembly or racing, look for ±2% accuracy with a calibration certificate, like the ACDelco ARM601-34.

 

### How do I store a torque wrench properly?

 

Always store it at its lowest torque setting to keep the internal spring relaxed. Never leave a click-type wrench set to a high value. Keep it in its case away from moisture and extreme temperatures.

 

### Can I use a torque wrench to loosen bolts?

 

No. Torque wrenches are designed only for tightening. Using one to loosen bolts can damage the internal mechanism and throw off its calibration.

 

Use a breaker bar or ratchet to loosen, then switch to the torque wrench for the final tighten.

 

### What torque range do I need for wheel lugs?

 

Most passenger car lug nuts require 80 to 100 ft-lb. Larger trucks and SUVs can go up to 150 ft-lb. A 1/2-inch drive wrench that covers 10 to 150 ft-lb, like the LEXIVON, will handle nearly every wheel you encounter.