1. Safety First:
* Parking Brake: Engage the parking brake firmly.
* Level Ground: Ensure the car is parked on a level, stable surface.
* Wheel Chocks: Place wheel chocks behind the front wheels to prevent the car from rolling.
* Jack Stands: Never work under a car supported only by a jack. Use jack stands placed securely under the vehicle's frame near the rear wheels. Consult your owner's manual for the proper jack points.
* Gloves: Wear gloves to protect your hands.
2. Gather Your Tools:
* Jack: A floor jack is recommended.
* Jack Stands: Crucial for safety.
* Lug Wrench: Make sure it fits your wheel nuts.
* Wheel Chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
* Owner's Manual (Optional but Recommended): To confirm jack points and torque specifications.
3. Procedure:
* Loosen Lug Nuts: Before jacking up the car, use the lug wrench to slightly loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheel you intend to remove. Don't remove them completely yet; just break them free. Turning them counter-clockwise will loosen them.
* Jacking the Car: Carefully raise the rear of the car using the jack, placing it at the designated jack point (check your owner's manual). Raise it high enough to comfortably clear the ground and allow space to remove the wheel.
* Secure with Jack Stands: Once the wheel is off the ground, immediately place jack stands under the vehicle's frame near the rear wheels for safety. Lower the jack slightly so the weight is on the jack stands, not the jack.
* Remove Lug Nuts: Now completely remove the lug nuts and keep them in a safe place.
* Remove the Wheel: Carefully pull the wheel straight off the hub. It might require a slight tug.
* Store the Wheel: Safely store the wheel.
4. Reassembly (When putting the wheel back on):
* Align Wheel: Align the wheel with the wheel studs.
* Install Lug Nuts: Install the lug nuts by hand, tightening them evenly in a star pattern (opposite nuts first, then the ones in between).
* Tighten Lug Nuts: Lower the vehicle slowly using the jack. Once the wheel is on the ground, fully tighten the lug nuts using the lug wrench. Do not overtighten; refer to your owner's manual for the correct torque specification.
* Lower Completely: Once the lug nuts are tight, lower the car completely.
* Final Check: Use the lug wrench to give the lug nuts one final tightening check.
Important Notes:
* Torque Specifications: Always consult your owner's manual for the correct torque specifications for your lug nuts. Over-tightening can damage the studs or wheels, while under-tightening can lead to wheel detachment.
* Wheel Studs: Inspect the wheel studs for any damage while the wheel is off.
* Brake Caliper: Depending on how much room you have, you may need to carefully maneuver the brake caliper to get the wheel clear. Don't force it; ensure the brake line isn't under stress.
If you are unsure about any part of this process, it's best to consult a qualified mechanic. Working on your car can be dangerous if not done correctly.
