The Most Dangerous Mistakes People Make When Changing a Spare

 

Changing a tyre isn't technically difficult. But the combination of stress, traffic, unfamiliar equipment and an awkward position makes it surprisingly easy to do in ways that range from ineffective to genuinely dangerous.

 

KEY TAKEAWAY: Most tyre change mistakes are avoidable with a bit of preparation and a willingness to stop and think before acting.

Mistake 1: Wrong Jack Position

Most modern cars have designated reinforced jacking points marked in the owner's manual. Placing the jack anywhere else can buckle the sill, damage the floor structure, or result in the car slipping off the jack.

 

Mistake 2: Loosening Wheel Nuts After Lifting

Loosen the wheel nuts before you jack the car up, while the tyre is still on the ground providing resistance. Try to loosen them once the tyre is in the air and it just spins.

 

Mistake 3: Incorrect Nut Tightening Sequence

Tighten wheel nuts in a star pattern, not in a circle. Circular tightening can warp the brake disc or leave the wheel slightly off-centre. Star pattern ensures even seating.

Mistake 4: Not Checking Spare Pressure

Spares lose pressure slowly over time even when unused. A spare that's been in your boot for five years may be significantly underinflated. Check it before you need it.

Mistake 5: Over-Reliance on the Jack Alone

Never go under a car supported only by a scissor jack. If you need to work under the vehicle for any reason, always use proper axle stands.

 

Come visit us today or call us on  (03) 9560 0442 , we'll check your spare tyre and its pressure as part of any service. Proudly serving our Glen Waverley, Cheltenham, Hallam, and Wantirna community of Melbourne's eastern suburbs.