Getting new tires installed on your car is a crucial part of vehicle maintenance. However, the process doesn’t stop at simply mounting the tires. After installing the new tires, your mechanic takes several necessary steps to ensure your vehicle is safe, stable, and ready for the road.
What does your mechanic do to complete a tire installation? Here’s a look at the steps that come after putting new tires on your car.
Tire Balancing
Once they mount the new tires onto the wheels, the mechanic will balance each tire. This process involves attaching small weights to the wheel. The weights counterbalance any areas of the tire and rim that are heavier than others. Proper balancing prevents vibrations, improves ride quality, and helps extend tire life.
Wheel Alignment
Depending on the condition of your suspension and the previous wear on your tires, the mechanic may decide it’s necessary to perform a wheel alignment. This process adjusts the angles of the tires (camber, caster, and toe) to ensure they meet the road at the proper angle. Misaligned wheels can lead to uneven tire wear and poor handling.
Torqueing the Lug Nuts
After the tires are installed and the wheels are mounted back onto your car, the mechanic will tighten the lug nuts using a torque wrench. This ensures that the nuts are secured to the manufacturer’s specifications, neither too loose nor too tight. Proper torque prevents damage to the wheels and brake components.
Tire Pressure Check
Correct tire pressure is essential for safety and fuel efficiency. The mechanic will inflate each tire to the recommended PSI (pounds per square inch). This information is usually in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s door.
Visual Inspection and Test Drive
Finally, the mechanic conducts a visual inspection to ensure everything is in place. They check that there are no leaks, damage, or issues with the wheel fitment. In some cases, the mechanic might take the car for a brief test drive to check for vibrations or pulling, which could indicate an alignment or balancing issue.
Come to Erick’s for New Tire Installation
Getting new tires for your car is a more complex process than you might think. Not only do you need quality tires that are the right size and style for your car, but you also need to ensure they’re correctly installed. When you need a tire installation, you can rely on our team at Erick’s Custom Exhaust & Auto Repair to be thorough and get it right. Contact us today to get your new tires!