Every component in your car has a function. And there is an element that is unique and singular. These are the tires, the only part of the car in direct contact with the ground. In this article, we will talk about How To Change A Tire On A Car.

Why is it essential to have good tires?

Before going step by step to change a tire, My Mobile Mechanic, We want to explain the importance and the repercussions of having a high-quality tire in excellent condition.

Security

In addition to the braking system, tires are indispensable for your car to stop. While most work well in everyday situations, anything can change in situations like rain or dirt.

Take, for example, the case of wet ground at a speed of 40 kilometers per hour. The car may need three to nine meters to stop completely. In addition to the driver’s caution, this will largely depend on the rim’s quality and the tire’s condition.

Economy

A tire of good quality and optimal conditions will help in ideal rolling. This situation will help you save fuel, which your pocket will appreciate in the long run.

So if you decide it’s time to change a tire (or all tires), do it with a long-term investment. Avoid impulsive purchases before comparing and reviewing the cost-benefit ratio to make a decision.

Perfect fit

They say tires are like shoes. They must be suitable and comfortable. Therefore, make sure that they meet your needs, tastes, and comfort when buying them.

Data to read when buying a tire

You already know the importance of having good tires. Before changing a tire, it will be helpful to know some of the nomenclature used by manufacturers. Next, we show you the data you need to know about your tires:

Rim width

This is the end-to-end measurement of the tread. In some cases, such as racing cars, the wider the tire, the greater the grip the car has on the ground. However, for city cars, there is consistency in this measurement.

Profile

This is the measurement that establishes the height of the sidewall and the tire’s width. However, some users choose to play around with this measurement for aesthetics. You must take into account that the car’s stability also depends on the height, mainly in curves. Therefore, the recommendation is to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Diameter

It is the number, in inches, which signifies the rim diameter and is always accompanied by an R. Like the previous point, changing this measurement could affect specific mechanisms of the car mainly because the manufacturer relied on specific measures and designs for their safety tests.

Load Index

In addition to the above measurements, another figure is regularly accompanied: the load index. This code indicates the maximum weight capacity of each tire. Regularly the cheapest ranges of tires sacrifice in this area, so be careful.

Speed Index

Indicates the maximum speed it can maintain for a specific time without damaging its structure. The classification begins with the letter M in low resistance tires. At the same time, the later alphabetical order could mean a more solid and efficient structure.

Maximum pressure

This metric is essential to know as it regularly depends on factors such as security and economy. This is the maximum pressure you can apply to the tires; it will be represented in figures accompanied by the PSI measurement. On the one hand, correct pressure will help you achieve more excellent stability. However, it will also help you save fuel.

5 signs that tell you it’s time to change a tire

Worn Designs

It is the primary functions of tire treads are to deflect water as it rotates. In good conditions, braking is effective and avoids skidding on wet roads. However, when you notice the pattern starting to lose, the tires become dangerous. The minimum depth measurement recommended by manufacturers is 16 millimeters.
Uneven Wear

If, when monitoring your tires, you notice irregular wear. In addition to requesting the mechanical overhaul of the assembly, it is good to think about changing a tire. Misalignment or worn suspension can significantly reduce the life of a tire.

Bumps

Abnormal bulges or “bumps” that form on the tire’s sidewall are a sure sign. This situation indicates that the tire’s structure has suffered significant damage after hitting a pothole or curb. According to experts, this situation is precarious for any driver and the urgency to change a tire is imminent.

Cracking

Finding cracks in the tires is not a good sign. This is most likely an indication that the rubber is breaking down or could result at the end of its useful life.

Expiration

Believe it or not, there is a good life range in tires. If the use is daily, the change recommendation is at least every six years and ten years.

How To Change A Tire On A Car: Steps to Change a Tire

Now that you are a tire expert, do you know how to change a tire? Otherwise, we have good news. We have designed a simple manual to help you change a tire.

Step 1

The first thing to do is put the car in a safe and visible place. Try to do it on a flat surface, where it allows you to perform maneuvers without putting your integrity at risk.

For example, if the tire to be changed is on the side of the flow of vehicles, you must place the car as far as possible from the path of the cars to avoid an accident.

Step 2

Are you already in a safe place? It’s time to look in the trunk to prepare all the tools necessary for this task.

The first thing you need to identify is to have the spare tire, a cross wrench, and a hydraulic jack. If you have safety nuts, make sure you have the adapter handy.

Step 3

Now is the time to loosen the nuts. This step will be fundamental for the maneuver. With the car still on the ground, you will need to release the pressure on the lug nuts but never remove them altogether. Just a few turns counterclockwise.

Step 4

Once the lug nuts are loose, it’s time to jack up the car. Identify a rigid, firm part that the car supports without damaging the unit’s weight. Once the above is confirmed, raise the car until the tire has a distance of 10 centimeters from the ground.

Step 5

Already with the car above. Turn the nuts counterclockwise now, yes, removing them completely.

Step 6

Carefully remove the damaged tire and store it in the trunk for an expert inspection. In its place, install the spare tire, matching the holes where the lug nuts will go.

Step 7

With the rim in the center, fit the nuts, tightening them slightly enough so that the tire is fixed to the structure.

Step 8

Slowly and being careful not to leave any tools under the car, lower the car ultimately. Now yes, with your Phillips wrench, firmly tighten the nuts. So the job is done, put away your tools, and continue the journey.