Changing car tyres and wheels can be a tiring and tedious exercise, especially if you have never changed one before. Though most people prefer calling their car service providers for a wheel change, it’s not bad knowing how to change one by yourself. However, it’s important to note that you should not change a wheel by yourself if you do not have the right tools or your safety is at risk.
Before You Start
Look for a safe place to park. It is better risking the rim of the car and drive further than parking in a dangerous spot such as a narrow path. Engage the hazard lights, wear a reflector if you have one and place the warning triangle at a location where other motorists can see it. Some of the tools you need apart from the spare wheel include the wrench, jack, wheel chock, and nut key.
Position The Wheel Chocks
Wheel chocks should be positioned on the opposite side of the wheel that has been punctured. That means if you want to change the right rear wheel, chocks should be placed on the left front wheel. Chocks prevent the car from rolling when it’s jacked up.
Work On The Wheel Nuts
It’s easier when wheel nuts are loosened while the car is still on the ground. Using a wheel wrench turn the nuts in an anti-clockwise direction until you are able to loosen the nuts by hand.
Jack The Car Up
Cars have different jacking points; hence it’s necessary to consult the car manual on where to place your jack. This should be at the point nearest to the damaged wheel. When the car is raised to about 10-15cm from the ground, you can now remove the punctured wheel.
You can now mount the spare wheel and lower the car. Fasten the bolts and do not forget to check the flat tyre to assess the damage.