What are the precautions for changing car tires?
3 Answers
Precautions for changing car tires include: 1. The new tire must be the same as the other tire on the same axle; 2. Replace the valve stem when changing the tire; 3. Tire pressure should not exceed 2.8 bar; 4. Avoid sudden braking after installing new tires. Steps for changing tires: 1. Use a jack to lift the vehicle to a certain height; 2. Remove the bolts and take off the tire; 3. Install the new tire and lower the jack. Car tire maintenance methods: 1. Regularly check tire pressure; 2. Remove debris from tire treads; 3. Inspect tire wear and replace them promptly based on wear condition; 4. Perform tire rotation to ensure even force distribution among all four tires and prevent excessive wear.
Every time I change tires, safety details are my top priority. Park on a flat and open area, and firmly engage the handbrake to prevent sliding. Place wheel chocks in fixed positions both in front of and behind the wheels, then use a jack at the designated support points on the vehicle frame, ensuring stability before slowly lifting the car body. When loosening the bolts, don’t rush—use a crisscross pattern to avoid wheel misalignment. Before installing the new tire, check the wheel hub for any damage or dirt that might affect the seal. When manually mounting the tire, gently push it into place without excessive force. Tighten the bolts with a torque wrench according to the standard specifications, and after completing the task, slowly lower the car and re-tighten the bolts once more before it fully touches the ground. Stay focused throughout the process—avoid distractions like checking your phone or chatting—to minimize risks of slipping or injury. I once had an accident due to being startled by a passerby while working on the roadside, so now I choose times with less traffic. Tools like jacks must be of reliable quality, as substandard ones can fail and pose dangers. After finishing, test-drive for a short distance to confirm there are no unusual noises or vibrations before considering the job done.
I have my own experience in choosing new tires. First, check the car manual to verify the tire specifications, such as size codes like 225/45R17, which must match the rims. Consider the driving environment: if you live in the south, all-season tires are cost-effective, while in the north with heavy snow, switching to winter tires is safer and more practical. Choose reputable mid-range brands—avoid cheap no-name or retreaded tires, as they wear out quickly and pose safety risks. Check that the tread depth is at least 8mm, and ensure new tires have no cracks or bulges. Don’t overlook speed ratings and load indexes—too low can affect handling and increase fuel consumption. For pricing, stock up during promotions to save money, or compare prices online and look for discounts at physical stores for installation. Once, I chose the wrong tires, which drastically increased fuel consumption, costing me extra money when I had to replace them. After installation, regularly checking tire pressure extends their lifespan and saves hassle. If on a tight budget, prioritize replacing the front tires first, as they bear more weight and require better quality.
