Wheel Removal

GENERAL PROCEDURE
1. Loosen wheel nuts by approximately 180° (one-half turn).
2. Raise and suitably support vehicle.
3. Remove wheel nuts and wheel from vehicle.

DIFFICULT TO REMOVE WHEELS
Sometimes wheels can be difficult to remove from the vehicle due to foreign material or a tight fit between the wheel center hole and the hub or rotor. These wheels can be removed without damage as follows:
1. Tighten all wheel nuts on the affected wheel, then loosen each wheel nut two turns.
2. Lower vehicle.
3. Rock the vehicle from side to side as hard as possible using one or more person's body weight to loosen the wheel. Rock the vehicle from "D" (automatic transmission) or "1" (manual transmission) to "R" allowing the vehicle to move several feet in each direction. Apply quick, hard pumps on the brake pedal to loosen the wheel.
4. Raise and suitably support vehicle.
5. Remove the wheel nuts and the wheel. Penetrating oil has not been found to be effective in removing tight wheels; however, if it is used, it should be applied sparingly to the wheel's center hole area only.

WARNING: Do not allow the penetrating oil to get on the vertical surfaces between the wheel and the drum or rotor because penetrating oil in this area could cause the wheel to work loose as the vehicle is driven, resulting in loss of control.

CAUTION: NEVER use heat to loosen a tight wheel. It can shorten the life of the wheel, wheel nuts and wheel bearings. 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 one's hand or a rubber mallet, is normally acceptable.