Removing the wheel
x Review the checklist ⇒ Preparations for changing a wheel.
x Loosen the wheel bolts ⇒ Wheel bolts.
x Lift the vehicle ⇒ Lifting the vehicle with the vehicle jack.
x Completely unscrew and remove the previously loosened wheel bolts using the hexagonal socket
in the screwdriver handle ⇒ fig. 174. Place the wheel bolts on a clean surface.
x Remove the wheel.
Mounting a spare or compact spare wheel
If the tire is a unidirectional tire, be sure to install it in the proper rolling direction ⇒Tires and wheels.
x Place the spare wheel or compact spare wheel on the axle.
x Screw in the wheel bolts clockwise and tighten them slightly using the hexagonal socket in the screwdriver handle.
x Lower the vehicle with the jack.
x Use the lug wrench to firmly tighten all wheel bolts (turn clockwise) ⇒ . Do not tighten them in sequence! Tighten any wheel bolt to begin, then tighten the wheel bolt diagonally opposite the first bolt, and so forth.
x Install the wheel bolt caps, center wheel hubcap, or wheel cover, if any ⇒ Wheel trim.
WARNING
Wheel bolts that are tightened or installed improperly can come loose, causing loss of vehicle control, a crash, and serious personal injury.
x Always keep wheel bolts and threads in the wheel hub clean and free of oil and grease. The wheel bolts must turn easily and must be tightened with the right torque.
x Use the hexagonal socket in the screwdriver handle only to turn the wheel bolts when they are loose, never to loosen them or tighten them firmly.
WARNING
Improper use of a compact spare wheel can cause loss of vehicle control, a crash or other accident, and serious personal injury.
x Never use a compact spare wheel if it is damaged or worn down to the wear indicators.
x Never drive faster than 50 mph (80 km/h) with a compact spare wheel. Avoid full-throttle acceleration, heavy braking, and fast cornering!
x Never drive more than 125 miles (200 km) with a compact spare wheel that is installed on the front axle (drive axle).
x Replace the compact spare with a normal wheel and tire as soon as possible. Compact spare tires are designed for brief use only.
After changing a wheel
x Screw the towing eye counterclockwise into the threaded hole as far as it will go (arrow)
⇒ fig. 185 ⇒ . Use the lug wrench to turn and tighten the towing eye completely and securely.
x When towing is complete, unscrew the towing eye clockwise to remove it.
x Position the lower tab of the cover ⇒ fig. 184 into the opening in the bumper and carefully push on the upper area of the cover until it has locked in place.
NOTICE
Always make sure the towing eye is screwed all the way into threaded hole so that it is secure. If not, it could be pulled out while your vehicle is being towed.
Driving tips while towing
