What is the least important reason for ensuring wheel fasteners are properly torqued?

Ensuring wheel fasteners are properly torqued is crucial for several reasons that directly impact vehicle safety and performance. Among these, adhering to the manufacturer's recommendations is often considered the least critical in comparison to the other options.

When wheel fasteners are properly torqued, it prevents warping of the disc brake rotor, which can occur if the fasteners are either too loose or unevenly torqued. This warping can lead to brake performance issues, such as pulsation and uneven wear, which are significantly detrimental to vehicle operation and safety.

Achieving proper stretch on the fasteners is also vital. This stretch ensures a secure fit, which helps maintain proper alignment and torque among the components. Under-torqued fasteners can lead to excessive movement, potentially causing components to loosen over time.

Avoiding overtightening is just as important since it can lead to damage to the fasteners or the host components, such as stripped threads or even breakage. Proper torque helps to prevent these issues, ensuring that the fasteners hold the wheel securely without damaging the surrounding components.

While adhering to the manufacturer's recommendations is certainly important, it serves as a guideline rather than directly influencing immediate safety and mechanical integrity like preventing rotor warping, achieving proper