How to install new tires and wheels yourself

## How to Install New Tires and Wheels Yourself

### Introduction

Replacing your tires and wheels is a relatively straightforward task that can be completed in a few hours with the right tools and a little patience. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can save yourself the cost of having a professional mechanic install your new tires and wheels.

### Tools and Materials You Will Need

New tires and wheels
Tire gauge
Wheel lug wrench
Hydraulic jack
Jack stands
Torque wrench
Thread locker

### Safety Precautions

Always park your vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
Place wheel chocks behind the wheels that will not be removed.
Wear safety glasses and gloves.
Do not attempt to remove or install tires and wheels if you are not comfortable with the task.

### Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Remove the Old Tires and Wheels

Use the tire gauge to check the tire pressure and release any remaining air.
Loosen the wheel lug nuts with the wheel lug wrench, but do not remove them completely.
Position the hydraulic jack under the designated jack point near the wheel you are removing and raise the vehicle until there is approximately 6 inches of clearance between the ground and the tire.
Secure the jack stand next to the jack and slowly lower the vehicle onto the jack stand.
Remove the wheel lug nuts and pull the tire and wheel straight towards you to remove it.

2. Mount the New Tires and Wheels

Place the new tire and wheel assembly onto the wheel studs and push it on until it is flush with the wheelbase.
Thread the wheel lug nuts onto the wheel studs by hand.
Tighten the lug nuts as much as possible by hand.
Use the torque wrench to further tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque for your vehicle.
Double-check the torque on all of the lug nuts.

3. Lower the Vehicle and Remove the Jack Stands

Use the hydraulic jack to raise the vehicle until the tires are about 1 inch off the ground.
Remove the jack stands and slowly lower the vehicle to the ground.
Remove the hydraulic jack.

4. Check Tire Pressure and Torque

Use the tire gauge to check the tire pressure and adjust it to the recommended level.
Tighten the lug nuts again using the torque wrench to ensure they are properly secured.

5. Apply Thread Locker

Apply a small amount of thread locker to the threads of the wheel lug nuts.
Re-tighten the lug nuts using the torque wrench.

### Tips

If you do not have a torque wrench, you can use a regular wrench and tighten the lug nuts as much as possible without overtightening.
Do not use a hammer or impact wrench to tighten the lug nuts.
Check the tire pressure and torque regularly, especially after driving long distances or over rough terrain.
Store your old tires and wheels in a dry and cool place for future use or disposal.

### Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully installed your new tires and wheels. By following these instructions carefully, you have saved yourself time and money, and gained the satisfaction of completing a simple automotive maintenance task yourself.