Which direction to turn when loosening car tire bolts?
2 Answers
Car tire bolts should be turned counterclockwise to loosen. Place your left hand facing the center of the tire, grip the wrench with your right hand and lift upwards to loosen the bolt - this method applies to passenger cars. For large trucks, the tire bolt directions differ between left and right sides: left-side bolts have reverse threads (turn opposite to normal), while right-side bolts have standard threads (turn in the rolling direction of the vehicle to tighten, opposite direction to loosen). After loosening, it's essential to visit the nearest auto repair shop for professional inspection of the tires to avoid potential safety hazards caused by oversight. It's recommended that owners check the tread condition and air pressure of spare tires during every vehicle maintenance session.
I often change tires by myself, and the lug nuts are definitely loosened by turning counterclockwise, which means turning to the left. Remember the rhyme 'lefty loosey, righty tighty,' just like most bottle caps. Don't kick the wrench to avoid slipping and injuring your hands. The small wrench in the car's tool kit will do. If the nuts are rusty and tight, spray some WD40 to lubricate them before turning. The sequence is crucial: when loosening the nuts, only loosen them half a turn at a time, alternating between diagonal nuts to prevent the wheel from deforming. When tightening after changing the tire, also follow the diagonal pattern, slowly tightening each nut until you feel resistance—don't over-tighten them all at once. Regularly maintain and check the nuts to prevent rust from affecting emergency tire changes. Safety first: don't fully loosen all the nuts before the jack is securely in place.
