Should I replace these wheel nuts or keep using them

2013 KIA RIO
59,000 MILES • 1.5L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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WALLY AB
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After inspecting and replacing my rear brakes, the last shop I went to stripped the studs. Two broke off. I ended up calling every parts store in town and the best price I could find for these replacement lug nuts for the car listed above with steel wheels were more than $6.00 a piece. I called the dealer and they charge $10.00 per wheel nut which is ridiculous.

Anyways I inspected my other nuts on the car and it seems they all have developed a taper on the bottom meeting the wheel. I showed my neighbour who worked as a mechanic and he said they are still fine to use, but I would rather get a second opinion.

Me personally, I always torque the wheels to 80ft/lbs on this car.
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Jul 21, 2018 at 2:41 PM
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STEVE W.
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That wear is normal as the steel and lug nut tapers are at slightly different angles, that allows for more friction to hold the lug nut in place better. I might check all the studs though, if they stripped and broke any they could have damaged other ones.
Spec for torque - 65 - 80 ft/lbs.
Jul 21, 2018 at 5:53 PM
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WALLY AB
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I am just a little concerned because it seems like the taper wear on the nuts does not seem 100% even, like one put of the nut has a larger taper than the other. Does it really make a difference?

The studs were fine, just one on the other side had a small nick at the top.
Jul 21, 2018 at 7:05 PM
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STEVE W.
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That is the same pattern you will see after you tighten down a new one. It is because the tapers are different and the uneven wear is because the holes and studs are close, but not 100% perfectly aligned. So you are going to get odd patterns unless you mark every wheel hole and lug nut and put them back on the exact same spot and at the exact same torque every time.
Overall it is nothing to worry about.
Jul 21, 2018 at 10:30 PM
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WALLY AB
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Thank you! I appreciate the time you took to reply.
Jul 21, 2018 at 11:18 PM
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STEVE W.
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No problem. Thank you for using 2CarPros. Please return anytime with your automotive questions, we are here to help.
Jul 22, 2018 at 12:19 AM