Changing a tyre might seem straightforward to those who have a bit of automotive maintenance experience.

However, tyre replacement Edinburgh involves more than just unscrewing bolts and replacing the tyre. Professional mechanics follow a systematic approach to ensure safety, efficiency, and the longevity of your tyres. Here’s a detailed look into how a mechanic changes tyres, ensuring your vehicle continues to run smoothly on the road.

Inspection and Preparation

The process begins with a thorough inspection of the tyre to be replaced and the vehicle itself. Mechanics check for any signs of wear and tear, alignment issues, or damage that could affect the new tyre’s performance. They also ensure the correct tyre size and type are selected based on the vehicle’s make, model, and driving conditions.

Removing the Wheel

The vehicle is lifted using a hydraulic jack or a lift to access the tyre comfortably. The mechanic then loosens the lug nuts or bolts with a pneumatic air gun or a tyre iron, ensuring not to fully remove them until the vehicle is securely lifted off the ground. This precaution is crucial for safety and prevents the wheel from becoming stuck.

Tyre Disassembly

Once the wheel is removed, the mechanic deflates the tyre completely by removing the valve stem core. The tyre is then carefully separated from the rim using a tyre changer machine. This machine breaks the tyre bead from the rim with precision to avoid any damage to the wheel or the tyre itself if it’s being repaired or assessed.

Inspection of the Wheel and Tyre

With the tyre off, the mechanic inspects the wheel for any damage, rust, or wear that could impair the new tyre’s fitting or function. The new or repaired tyre is also inspected to ensure it’s free of defects. This stage is critical to ensure the safety and durability of the tyre installation.

Mounting and Inflating the New Tyre

The new tyre is then placed on the rim using the tyre changer machine. The mechanic ensures it sits evenly around the rim before inflating it to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. This step may also involve replacing the valve stem to ensure the tyre retains air properly.

Balancing the Wheel

Wheel balancing is essential to avoid vibrations while driving. The mechanic mounts the wheel on a balancing machine, which spins the wheel to detect any imbalances. Weights are then added to the opposite side of the wheel where the imbalance is detected, ensuring a smooth ride.

Reattaching the Wheel

Once the tyre is mounted, balanced, and inflated, the wheel is reattached to the vehicle. Lug nuts are tightened by hand initially, then with a pneumatic air gun, and finally torqued to the manufacturer’s specifications using a torque wrench.e

Final Checks and Test Drive

The mechanic conducts a final inspection to ensure everything is in place and properly tightened. A test drive may follow to confirm the vehicle’s handling and that there are no issues arising from the tyre change.