Wheel Removal

Sometimes, wheels can be difficult to remove due to corrosion or a tight fit between the wheel center pilot hole and the hub or rotor. Wheels can be removed without damage as follows:
1. Tighten all wheel nuts on the wheel; then loosen each nut only two turns.
2. Lower vehicle onto floor.
3. Rock vehicle from side to side as hard as possible to loosen the wheel, or rock it from "Drive" (D) to "REVERSE" (R), allowing the vehicle to move several feet in each direction. Apply quick, hard jabs on the brake pedal to loosen the wheel.
4. Stop engine and raise vehicle.
5. Remove wheel nuts and wheel. Do not let aluminum wheels stand vertical at any time. Lay the back (unfinished surface) of the wheel on a soft clean surface. Penetrating oil is not effective in removing tight wheels.

CAUTION: If penetrating oil gets on the vertical surfaces between the wheel and the rotor or drum, it could cause the wheel to work loose as the vehicle is driven, resulting in a loss of control and an injury accident. Never use heat to loosen a tight wheel. It can shorten the life of the wheel, studs, or hub and bearing assemblies. Wheel nuts must be tightened in sequence and to the proper torque to avoid bending the wheel or brake rotor or drum.

Excessive force such as hammering the wheel or tire can also cause damage and is not recommended. Slight tapping of the tire side wall, such as with your hand or rubber mallet, is normally acceptable.