Removing The Wheel
Step 1: Using the lug nut wrench provided in your vehicle’s trunk, ONLY break each lug nut free going in a criss-cross direc
tion but don’t start removing it. It would be helpful to have a pipe to use for leverage here.
Step 2: Using your own jack or the one in the trunk, jack up the vehicle at the jack points which are usually near each wheel (look into your owner’s manual for more information).
Step 3: If it’s not just for installing a spare tire, make sure to support the vehicle with jack stands and have the jack as backup.
Step 4: Once your wheel is off the ground and securely supported, begin removing all the lug nuts.
Step 5: Usually, you should be able to pull off the wheel with ease, but if not proceed to step 6.
Step 6: Start by lightly tapping on each side of the wheel with hands and feet and the wheel should break free from the corrosion that has built up….. If not follow the steps in this article
Reinstalling the Wheel
Step 1: Place the wheel on the wheel hub
*It is a good idea to add a very thin layer of anti-seize on the area where the wheel surface meets the rotor hub surface to make it easier to take off next time.
Step 2: Start threading in each lug nut by hand making sure the threads going in smoothly and not with a fight
Step 3: Take the lug nut wrench and start lightly tightening each lug nut making sure to go in a criss-cross direction. Only lightly tighten while in the air. Do NOT put too much force.
Step 4: Now, remove the jack stand and lower the jack enough so that the wheel touches the ground and cannot move.
Step 5: Then, start tightening each lug nut using a torque wrench (again in a criss-cross direction).
*The average torque spec is around 80-90 ft/lbs. To find the torque needed for your vehicle just do a simple google search.
When you are installing a spare tire and don’t have a torque wrench, just tighten each lug nut with the lug nut wrench as tight as you can while holding it near the middle of the handle so you won’t over tighten
*DON’T use a pipe for leverage here.
*Make sure to go in a criss-cross direction.
*DON’T start using your whole body weight trying to tighten the bolts, because when over tightened, the rotors can end up warping after a while.
Step 6: Now lower the vehicle all the way down and you’re all done!
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