Changing tires in the fall: tools for self-assembly

In large parts of Germany the leaves are turning colorful and the temperatures are settling into autumnal climes. Because the temperatures were mild until recently, many drivers are still using summer tires. True to the motto “Easter to October”, there is currently a boom in car repair shops in the Republic. If you have stored your winter slippers in your trusted workshop, you should quickly make an appointment to change the tires. Anyone who has stored the tires in the basement or garage over the summer should slowly but surely do it themselves. Because the colder it gets, the more summer tires suffer. So get to changing your tires!

In this article you can read which tools you should have ready for a successful tire change, how to replace summer tires with winter tires step by step and what you need to consider when it comes to tire tread.

Experienced mechanics and everyone who changes the wheels on their cars themselves every October and around Easter will have the most important tools at hand for a long time. Everyone else essentially needs two tools to get their tires changed without any worries: In addition to this (or optionally one ) is that one or even better: a powerful one . It is also advisable to wear overalls or clothing that can get dirty .

Regardless of whether it is in the fall or after an egg hunt: the car should be on a flat and paved surface when changing the tire. For cars with a manual transmission, the following applies: engage first gear and apply the handbrake. For automatic cars, the “P” is the right choice.

Important: Many wheel sets are secured with a special wheel lock that can only be “cracked” with the appropriate nut. This should be kept in a safe place.

Tip: If you are unsure about the torque with which the wheel nuts should be tightened, it is best to take a look at the manual. If the wheel bolt is too tight, it could break off. If you are too careful, you risk the nuts coming loose on their own.

After changing a tire, the first trip should be to the gas station to check the tire pressure. The manufacturer’s recommended values ​​are usually written on the inside of the tank cap or on the inside of the driver’s door.

You can also make mistakes when storing winter or summer tires. A warm, humid climate is not good for the tires at all. You should if possible dry, cool and dark be stored. Tires that are stored mounted on the rim can be stacked or hung on the wall using appropriate devices. Unmounted tires require a little more maintenance. They prefer to stand upright against the wall and want to be turned every now and then.