1. Gather Your Tools:
* Lug wrench: This is crucial. A lug wrench with a good grip is best. Consider a torque wrench if you plan on putting the wheels back on yourself.
* Jack: A floor jack is recommended for safety and ease of use. A jack stand is *highly* recommended for safety – never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Jack stands (essential for safety): These are critical to support the car while the wheel is off the ground. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks (recommended): Place these behind the wheels that remain on the ground to prevent the car from rolling.
* Gloves (optional but recommended): To protect your hands.
2. Prepare the Vehicle:
* Park on a level surface: This ensures stability.
* Engage the parking brake: This is essential to prevent the car from rolling.
* Place wheel chocks: Put wheel chocks behind the wheels that are *not* being removed to further prevent accidental movement.
* Locate the lug nuts: These are the nuts securing the wheel to the hub.
3. Lift the Vehicle:
* Consult your owner's manual: Find the designated jack points for your Charger. Jacking up the car in the wrong place can damage the vehicle's undercarriage. Typically, there are reinforced points near the frame rails.
* Position the jack: Securely place the jack under the designated jack point.
* Slowly raise the vehicle: Lift the vehicle until the wheel is several inches off the ground.
* Place jack stands: Once the vehicle is raised, immediately place jack stands under the frame near the jacking point. Lower the vehicle onto the jack stands. The jack can now be removed. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
4. Remove the Wheel:
* Loosen the lug nuts: Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts by turning them counter-clockwise. Do this *before* jacking up the car. It's much easier to loosen them while the wheel is still on the ground. Don't remove them completely yet.
* Remove the lug nuts: Once the lug nuts are loosened, completely remove them and keep them in a safe place (e.g., a container or the hubcap).
* Pull the wheel off: Carefully pull the wheel straight away from the hub. It may require a little force.
5. Reinstallation (in reverse order):
* Install the wheel: Carefully align the wheel with the studs on the hub.
* Install the lug nuts: Hand-tighten the lug nuts.
* Lower the vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle using the jack stands.
* Tighten the lug nuts: Use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern (opposite nuts first, then the others). Do not overtighten. Consult your owner's manual for the recommended torque specification. Over-tightening can damage the studs and wheels.
* Remove the jack stands: Once the vehicle is securely on the ground, remove the jack stands.
* Final tightening: Give the lug nuts one final check to ensure they are all securely tightened.
Important Safety Notes:
* Always use jack stands: Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. This is extremely dangerous.
* Consult your owner's manual: Your owner's manual will have specific instructions and jack points for your 2006 Dodge Charger.
* Use proper tools: Using damaged or inappropriate tools can lead to injury or damage to your vehicle.
* Be aware of your surroundings: Ensure the area is clear and safe before you begin.
If you are uncomfortable performing this task yourself, it is always best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic.
