1. Safety First:
* Park on a level surface: This prevents the car from rolling.
* Engage the parking brake: Absolutely crucial.
* Chock the rear wheels: Place wheel chocks behind the rear tires for added safety. This is vital even on a level surface.
* Gather your tools: You'll need a lug wrench (the one that came with your car is best), and possibly a jack and jack stands (If you don't have jack stands, do not proceed). Consider using gloves to protect your hands.
2. Prepare the Vehicle:
* Locate the jack points: Consult your owner's manual to find the designated jack points for the front of your Sebring. Improper jack placement can damage the vehicle's frame. Generally, it will be near the pinch weld (the reinforced area along the bottom of the car's body).
3. Jack Up the Vehicle:
* Position the jack: Carefully place the jack under the designated jack point.
* Raise the vehicle: Slowly and steadily raise the vehicle until the tire is a few inches off the ground.
4. Secure with Jack Stands (Essential):
* Position jack stands: Place jack stands under the vehicle's frame, near the jacking points, but *not* directly under the jack. Ensure the jack stands are firmly and securely in place before removing the jack.
* Lower the vehicle onto the jack stands: Slowly lower the vehicle onto the jack stands. The weight of the vehicle should now be supported by the jack stands, not the jack. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
5. Remove the Wheel:
* Loosen the lug nuts: Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts. Turn them counter-clockwise. Do this *before* jacking up the car, as it's much easier when the tire is on the ground.
* Remove the lug nuts: Once loosened, completely remove the lug nuts and keep them together in a safe place (a container or your pocket).
* Remove the wheel: Carefully pull the wheel straight off the hub.
6. Reinstallation (Reverse Order):
* Install the wheel: Align the wheel with the wheel studs on the hub.
* Install the lug nuts: Hand-tighten the lug nuts.
* Lower the vehicle: Slowly lower the vehicle using the jack stands.
* Tighten the lug nuts: Once the vehicle is on the ground, use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern (opposite nuts tightened first, then the ones in between). This ensures even tightening and prevents warping the brake rotor. Don't overtighten.
* Remove jack stands: Carefully remove the jack stands.
* Final tightening: Give the lug nuts one last check for tightness.
7. Important Notes:
* Consult your owner's manual: This guide provides general instructions. Always refer to your owner's manual for specific jack points and safety information relevant to your 2007 Chrysler Sebring.
* Torque specification: Your owner's manual will also specify the correct torque for the lug nuts. Using a torque wrench is recommended to prevent damage to the wheel studs.
* If unsure, seek professional help: If you're uncomfortable performing this task yourself, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Improper tire changing can lead to accidents and damage.
Remember, safety is the utmost priority. If you are not comfortable with this procedure, seek professional assistance. It's much better to be safe than sorry.
