Of course, experts like Center State Auto will be more than happy to help you change your car’s tires. But just like submitting the declaration, tire change can be postponed until the last minute, and you may want to prove that you can at least fix it yourself. But don’t worry, in this article, we tell you everything you need to know to change your tire quickly and safely! When you change the tires on your car, you must make sure you have the right equipment and tools for the job. Keep safety in mind when changing tires. Ensure your vehicle is level and secure with pallets. Also, do not forget to retighten your wheel bolts.

 

Step 1 – Apply the Parking Brake

When changing tires, make sure the car is on a level surface. Be sure to apply the parking brake. To change wheels, you need a jack that can handle the car’s weight. The jack in the car works in an emergency, but it is often smaller and not very stable. A real jack is an easier and safer alternative.

 

Step 2 – Loosen Wheel Bolts

Loosen the wheel bolts half a turn while the car is still on the ground. This is a typical step where the job becomes so much easier if you have the right tools. Loosening the wheel bolts with a rim cross is something you hopefully only need to do in the event of a puncture; here, you would instead use a sleeve with traction.

 

Step 3 – Raise the Car

The car has a point at each wheel that is intended for the jack. If you are unsure where the points are, you will find the information in the car’s manual.

 

Step 4 – Use Pallbock

When you have hoisted the car up, you need to push in a sturdy and approved pallet stand that can also handle the car’s weight. The pallet is a safety measure; if the jack breaks down, it prevents the vehicle from collapsing.

 

Step 5 – Loosen the Wheels

Unscrew the wheel bolts completely. Avoid laying them directly on the ground to avoid dirt in the threads of the wheel bolts. Then you can remove the wheel, but keep in mind that it is heavy.

 

Step 6 – Check the Brake Pads

It may not be the first thing you think of in connection with a wheel change, but now you have a golden opportunity to inspect the brake pads on the car. 

 

Step 7 – Lubricate Wheel Bolts

When reassembling the wheel, be sure to lubricate the wheel bolts with a bit of grease. It counteracts rust and wears. But do not take too much, then excess grease can be thrown into the brake system. 

 

Step 8 – Screw on the Wheel

Now tighten the wheel again. Tighten the bolts crosswise.

 

Step 9 – Lower the Car

Now you can remove the pallet and gently lower the car.

 

Step 10 – Pull with the Correct Torque

Check the wheel bolts with a torque wrench. How hard the wheel bolts should be tightened is stated in the car’s instruction manual. If you pull too hard, the threads can be destroyed. If you pull too loosely, the wheel can come loose. When you have driven about ten miles after changing wheels, it is time to retighten the bolts for safety.

 

Step 11 – Check Tire Pressure

Check that you have the correct air pressure in the tires. The right air pressure makes the car safer, and you also consume less fuel.

 

Step 12 – Store the Tires

Clean the wheels and put them in a tire bag, especially if you are transporting the wheels. 

 

We hope this guide truly helps you, and you’ll be able to change your tires like a real pro!