Regular tire changes are one of the most important maintenance tasks on your vehicle. In addition to safety, correct changes also ensure a longer service life for your tires. But how often should tires be changed and what should you pay attention to? In this blog post, you will learn everything you need to know about changing tires and how to avoid mistakes.
Why is changing tires important?
Changing between summer and winter tires is not only required by law, but also a question of safety. The right tires offer optimal grip in each season, save fuel and prevent premature wear. Worn or incorrect tires can be dangerous, especially in wet, snowy or slippery conditions.
When should the tires be changed?
- Summer tires: From Easter to October – at temperatures above 7°C.
- Winter tires: From October to Easter – when temperatures are below 7°C or there is snow.
How does changing a tire work? Step-by-step instructions
If you want to change the tires yourself, here are the most important steps:
- Preparation: Make sure your car is on a level surface. Apply the handbrake and put the car in first gear.
- Prepare tools: A jack, a wheel wrench, a torque wrench and a pair of gloves are essential.
- Loosen the wheel: Loosen the wheel nuts without removing them completely.
- Lift the car: Raise the vehicle with the jack until the wheel hangs freely in the air.
- Changing the wheel: Remove the wheel nuts, take off the wheel and put on the new one.
- Tightening nuts: First tighten the wheel nuts by hand, then use the torque wrench.
- Lower the car: Lower the vehicle slowly and tighten the wheel nuts again.
Pro tip:
Check the tire pressure and tread depth after changing. The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm, but for optimal grip it should be at least 3 mm.
Avoid common mistakes when changing tires
- Incorrect torque: Do not over-tighten or over-loosen the lug nuts. A torque wrench will ensure the correct tension.
- No tire marking: Make note of which tires were mounted front and rear to avoid uneven wear.
- Overlooking damage: Check tires for visible damage such as cracks or dents before installing them.
Tire change by a professional: When does it make sense?
Not everyone has the right tools or the time to change tires themselves. In such cases, it is advisable to visit a specialist company. Experts can not only fit the tires correctly, but also identify and repair damage to rims or tires.
An example of professional rim repairs is provided by carwheel.de : Here, damaged rims can be conveniently sent online for repair. Perfect for those who value safety and aesthetics.
Conclusion: Regular tire changes pay off
A well-planned tire change not only ensures your safety, but also protects your tires from unnecessary wear. Regardless of whether you do the change yourself or leave it to a professional - with the right tips and tools you are on the safe side.
Do you have any questions? Share your experiences or challenges when changing tires in the comments.