How to Remove a Wheel
For the majority of the time, there are probably two reasons for changing a wheel on a car:
This article describes removing a wheel when working on a car. This article should be read in conjunction with “How to Jack up a Vehicle Safely“.
Note: Not all vehicles are the same? Therefore proceed with caution (at your own risk). Please read the owner’s manual or handbook…
Topics:
How to Remove a Wheel on a Car:
Park the vehicle on flat firm ground, so the vehicle is:
- Less likely to roll (or, the jack, axle stand may fall).
- Make sure the jack is well supported (or, it may start to sink into the ground).
When working on a vehicle, axle stands, or a similar type of support must be used to ensure the vehicle is safe whilst it is worked on.
The positioning of the axle stands and jack will be dependant on the vehicle (see the vehicle handbook). For more information, see the article on “How to Jack up a Vehicle Safely“.
- Make sure the handbrake is on and place wheel chocks around a wheel that is to remain on the ground.
- Remove the keys from the ignition.
- Remove the wheel trim (if fitted).
Wheel Removal – Wheel Nut Access, Removing the Wheel Trim 
Wheel Removal – Wheel Nut Access, Removing the Trim
- If wheel lock nuts are fitted, find the wheel lock nut key (adapter tool).
Wheel Removal – Wheel Lock Nut Removal Tool (Located in the Tool Kit) 
Wheel Removal – Wheel Lock Nut Key in Position
- Loosen the wheel nuts, whilst the wheel is still on the ground, (Just Half a Turn).
- Position the jack according to the vehicle manufacturers handbook, or on a suitable part of the vehicles structure (see “How to Jack up a Vehicle Safely“).
Jacking Up a Vehicle – On the Body Strengthening Box Section 
Jacking Up a Vehicle – Using the Manufacturers Jack (Locating Point)
- Jack up the car. Never place any part of your body (or anyone else’s!) under the car whilst jacking up.
- Place the axle stands in a suitable position under the vehicle (see “How to Jack up a Vehicle Safely“). Try to place the axle stands without placing your body under the vehicle.
The Manufacturers Jacking Point (Additional ‘Fitted’ Support to clear the Underside) 
Jacking Up a Vehicle – Using the Vehicle’s Subframe for an Axle Stand
- Check the vehicle is stable and cannot move.
- Undo the wheel nuts.
- Remove the wheel and place under the car (additional safety measure).
Replacing the Wheel:
- Make sure the area where the wheel sits on the wheel hub is clean.
- Refit the wheel and wheel nuts.
- Tighten the wheel nuts in turn.
- Jack up the car just high enough to remove the axle stands. Try to remove the axle stands without placing your body under the vehicle.
- Lower the car to the point where the wheel is just touching the ground… (so the wheel can’t spin). Re-tighten the wheel nuts to the correct torque.
- You can then completely lower the car and remove the jack.
- Replace the wheel trim. If the air valve fits through the trim, make sure it is correctly seated.
For more information, see the article on “How to Jack up a Vehicle Safely“.
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