Removing the tyre from the wheel is necessary both when replacing the tyre with a new one and if the wheel is damaged. This service is available at every tyre fitting centre. However, many people attempt to remove the tyre from the wheel themselves using improvised methods. Unfortunately, this can result in damage, potentially leading to much greater expenses – such as purchasing a new wheel or tyre – than the cost of professional services. In this article, we explain how to remove a tyre from a wheel and explore whether it is worth the effort to do it yourself.
How can I remove a tyre from a wheel safely and quickly?Is it difficult to remove a tyre from a wheel?
Contrary to what one might expect, removing a tyre from a wheel is not an easy task. This is because the components are designed to fit tightly together under considerable pressure. The process requires the use of specialised tyre changers, which not only minimise the risk of damaging the structure but also significantly simplify and expedite the procedure.
In an effort to save money, some people may attempt to remove the tyre from the wheel themselves. While it is not impossible, doing so demands considerably more time and the utmost care.
Removing a tyre yourself – the risks
Unfortunately, inexperience and a lack of the proper tools can easily lead to damaging the bead, which may result in leaks and air loss. Furthermore, inadequate pressure can negatively affect driving characteristics and cause uneven tread wear, necessitating more frequent replacement of the tyre set. So how can you remove a tyre from the wheel without deforming either the tyre or the wheel?
How can I remove a tyre from a car wheel?
Removing tyres is an essential task in several situations. Owners of seasonal models must do this twice a year, during the spring and autumn.
It is also necessary if a tyre blows out, is cut or bulges after hitting an obstacle. When faced with this task, it is advisable to leave it to the professionals at a tyre fitting centre. They have the required tools and experience to remove the tyre from the wheel without damaging its structure. How is this procedure carried out in a professional workshop?
Removing a tyre from an alloy wheel
To remove a tyre from an aluminium wheel, tyre fitting centre employees typically use an automatic tyre changer. This involves placing the wheel on the feeder, positioning the bead breaker and pressing a pedal to swiftly remove the tyre from the wheel. It is important to use claw guards to prevent scratching the aluminium flanges. Additionally, extra care is necessary for tyres equipped with TPMS pressure sensors, as they can easily be damaged during the process.
How can I remove a tyre from a steel wheel?
Removing a tyre from a steel wheel is relatively straightforward. Let us consider the use of a semi-automatic tyre changer as an example. How can I remove a tyre from a steel wheel? Start by bleeding some air from the tyre and inserting a bead breaker lever under the wheel flange. Next, place the wheel on the tyre changer's table with the claws facing outwards and position the arm over the section of tyre you have leveraged with the lever. When the machine is activated, the wheel will rotate, freeing one side of the tyre from the wheel. Once the rotation is complete, you will need to use the lever to separate the second bead.
How can I remove a tyre from a wheel at home?
Some people wonder how to remove tyres from a wheel without using specialised equipment. To perform this operation, you will need a tyre valve spanner, tyre levers (or a couple of large flat screwdrivers), a rubber mallet, a sharp crowbar and assembly paste (which can be substituted with WD-40 or water mixed with washing-up liquid). How can I remove a tyre from a wheel at home step by step?
- Unscrew the valve core with a spanner and deflate the tyre,
- lay the wheel flat with the outside facing up,
- use a rubber mallet to tap the tyre along the edge – this will help it detach from the wheel more easily,
- lubricate the rubber-metal contact area with your chosen lubricant to reduce friction,
- step on the tyre, bending it away from the wheel and place a crowbar in the gap,
- pry the tyre off by lifting it above the edge and inserting the lever or screwdriver into the gap,
- slide the tool along the metal edge, gradually extending the gap,
- if you encounter resistance, leave the lever in place, bend the tyre at another point and insert another tool into the gap,
- once a full circle is made, the tyre will be freed from the wheel on one side,
- repeat the entire process from the inside of the tyre. This time, push the tyre beneath the edge of the wheel. Once completed, remove it from the wheel entirely.
You now understand how to remove a tyre from a wheel using DIY methods. However, for your safety – and the safety of your tyres – we do not recommend doing this yourself. It is much better to book an appointment at a tyre fitting centre, where professionals can perform the entire process more quickly, and also assist with fitting a new tyre to the wheel if needed.
How can I fit a tyre on a wheel without a specialised machine?
Some people try to fit a tyre onto a wheel themselves, but this requires a significant amount of force and tools, posing a considerable risk of damaging both the tyre and the wheel.
Additionally, balancing the wheel at home is not possible, and this is crucial for optimal handling characteristics. It is, therefore, more sensible to have tyres fitted to wheels at a tyre fitting centre. Would you like brand new tyres on your car? Consider opting for delivery with fitting, which allows you to pick up your selected set directly at the workshop, where it will be fitted to your wheels.
How much does it cost to remove a tyre from a wheel?
After considering the tips provided, have you concluded that removing tyres from a wheel using DIY methods is not the best approach? If so, you can easily find a professional tyre fitting centre to handle the removal for you. The cost of this service starts at around PLN 15 per tyre, varying based on the workshop's location or the tyre's size.
For aluminium wheels, the price may be slightly higher. This cost is typically affordable for most drivers, encouraging them to seek professional assistance rather than attempting the task in their own garage.