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How to Change Tesla Tires: A Pro’s Guide to Keeping You Rolling

So, you’ve got a flat or your tires are just plain worn down on your beloved Tesla, and you’re wondering how to tackle the tire change yourself? You’ve come to the right place. While seemingly straightforward, changing tires on a Tesla requires a bit more nuance than your average ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) vehicle due to its weight, unique lifting points, and the importance of preserving your battery and electronics. Let’s dive into the comprehensive process.

Here’s the direct answer: Changing tires on a Tesla involves gathering the necessary tools (jack, lug wrench, jack pads, torque wrench), safely lifting the vehicle at designated jack points using jack pads, removing the lug nuts, taking off the old tire, mounting the new tire, tightening the lug nuts to the correct torque specification (usually around 129 lb-ft or 175 Nm), and lowering the vehicle. Following the correct procedure is crucial to prevent damage to your Tesla’s battery pack and body.

The Essential Toolkit: What You’ll Need

Before you even think about loosening a lug nut, gather your supplies. Having everything ready beforehand saves time and frustration. Here’s your checklist:

Tesla-compatible Jack: Not all jacks are created equal. Due to the low ground clearance of many Tesla models, you may need a low-profile jack. More importantly, ensure it has sufficient lift capacity to safely handle the weight of your car.
Jack Pads: Absolutely crucial! Teslas have specific jack points that need to be protected to avoid damaging the battery pack underneath the car. Use Tesla-specific jack pads made of rubber or polyurethane. These distribute the load evenly and prevent damage.
Lug Wrench: A sturdy lug wrench is a must. While the Tesla toolkit might contain one, a breaker bar with a socket can provide extra leverage, especially if the lug nuts are tight.
Torque Wrench: Non-negotiable! Overtightening or undertightening lug nuts is dangerous. A torque wrench ensures each nut is tightened to the manufacturer’s specified torque (refer to your owner’s manual or a reliable source).
Wheel Chocks: Safety first! Use wheel chocks behind the wheels opposite the one you’re changing to prevent the car from rolling.
Gloves: Protect your hands from dirt and grime.
Optional but Recommended:
- Work Light: Especially helpful in dimly lit garages or roadside situations.
- Rags or Shop Towels: For cleaning your hands and tools.
- Lug Nut Socket Extension: If your lug wrench socket is too short to clear the wheel hub.
- Pen and Paper: To mark the position of each tire before removal, especially if you’re rotating them.

Step-by-Step Guide: The Tire Changing Process

Now that you have your tools, let’s walk through the tire changing process.

1. Preparation is Key

Park on a Level Surface: Find a flat, stable area away from traffic.
Engage Parking Brake: Make sure the parking brake is firmly engaged.
Chock the Wheels: Place wheel chocks behind the wheels that are diagonally opposite the tire you are changing.
Gather Your Tools: Keep everything within easy reach.

2. Loosening the Lug Nuts

Before Lifting: Loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire before jacking up the car. This is much easier when the wheel is on the ground.
Use the Lug Wrench: Place the lug wrench on a lug nut and apply firm, steady pressure. You may need to use your body weight. Remember, lefty loosey, righty tighty.
Don’t Remove Completely: Loosen each nut about a quarter to a half turn. Don’t remove them entirely at this stage.

3. Lifting the Vehicle

Locate the Jack Points: This is critical! Consult your Tesla owner’s manual to identify the correct jack points. They are usually reinforced areas near the wheels.
Insert Jack Pads: Place the Tesla-specific jack pads into the jack points. This will protect the battery pack and prevent damage to the car’s frame.
Position the Jack: Carefully position the jack under the jack pad.
Lift the Vehicle: Slowly and steadily raise the vehicle until the flat tire is off the ground. Make sure the car is stable and secure before proceeding.

4. Removing the Flat Tire

Completely Remove Lug Nuts: Now, fully unscrew the lug nuts and keep them together in a safe place.
Pull Off the Wheel: Carefully pull the flat tire straight off the hub. It may require some wiggling if it’s stuck.

5. Mounting the New Tire

Align the Wheel: Carefully align the new tire with the wheel studs.
Push Onto the Hub: Push the tire onto the hub until it sits flush against the rotor.
Hand-Tighten Lug Nuts: Hand-tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern (opposite nuts first) to ensure even pressure.

6. Lowering and Torquing

Lower the Vehicle: Slowly lower the vehicle until the tire touches the ground, but the full weight of the car is not yet on the tire.
Torque the Lug Nuts: Using your torque wrench, tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specified torque (usually around 129 lb-ft or 175 Nm). Again, use a star pattern to ensure even tightening.
Fully Lower the Vehicle: Once all lug nuts are properly torqued, fully lower the vehicle to the ground.

7. Final Check

Double-Check Torque: Give the lug nuts one last check with the torque wrench to ensure they are properly tightened.
Remove Wheel Chocks: Remove the wheel chocks.
Road Test: Take a short road test to ensure everything feels normal.

Important Considerations for Teslas

Battery Protection: Always use jack pads to protect the battery pack. Damage to the battery can be extremely expensive to repair.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC): The ESC system might need to be recalibrated after a tire change, particularly if you’ve changed tire sizes. Consult your owner’s manual or a Tesla service center for guidance.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): The TPMS sensors monitor tire pressure. After a tire change, ensure the sensors are correctly transmitting data. You may need to reset the TPMS system through the car’s touchscreen.
Tesla-Specific Tires: While not always required, some Tesla models benefit from using tires specifically designed for EVs. These tires often have lower rolling resistance for improved efficiency and are engineered to handle the instant torque of electric motors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use any jack to lift my Tesla?

No. You need a low-profile jack with sufficient lift capacity and, more importantly, Tesla-specific jack pads to protect the battery pack.

2. Where are the jack points located on a Tesla?

The jack points are located on the reinforced areas of the frame near each wheel. Refer to your Tesla owner’s manual for precise locations.

3. What happens if I damage the battery pack while jacking up my Tesla?

Damaging the battery pack can lead to expensive repairs and potentially dangerous situations. Always use jack pads and follow the correct lifting procedure.

4. What is the correct torque specification for Tesla lug nuts?

The torque specification is typically around 129 lb-ft or 175 Nm. However, always consult your owner’s manual or a reliable source for the correct specification for your specific model and wheel type.

5. Do I need to recalibrate the TPMS after changing tires?

Yes, you may need to reset the TPMS system through the car’s touchscreen after a tire change.

6. Are Tesla tires different from regular tires?

Some Tesla models benefit from using tires specifically designed for EVs, which often have lower rolling resistance for improved efficiency.

7. How often should I rotate my Tesla tires?

Tesla recommends rotating tires every 6,250 miles (10,000 km) or if the difference in tread depth between two tires is 2/32 inch (1.5 mm) or greater, whichever comes first.

8. What should I do with my old tires?

Dispose of your old tires responsibly at a tire recycling center or a local tire shop.

9. Can I change my Tesla tires myself, or should I take it to a professional?

While you can change your Tesla tires yourself, it requires the right tools, knowledge, and caution. If you’re uncomfortable with the process or lack the necessary equipment, it’s best to take it to a professional.

10. What are the risks of over-tightening lug nuts?

Over-tightening lug nuts can damage the wheel studs and wheel hub, making it difficult to remove the wheel in the future and potentially leading to wheel failure.

11. What are the risks of under-tightening lug nuts?

Under-tightening lug nuts can cause the wheel to come loose while driving, leading to a dangerous situation.

12. Where can I find Tesla-specific jack pads?

You can find Tesla-specific jack pads online at retailers like Amazon, Tesla’s online store, or specialty automotive parts stores.

Changing your Tesla tires yourself can save you money and provide a sense of accomplishment. However, always prioritize safety and follow the correct procedures to avoid damage to your vehicle. When in doubt, consult a professional.