How to Change a Tire On the VW Jetta
DIY: How to Change Your VW Jetta's Tire
Unsure where to start when it comes to changing a tire? Our team compiled this easy-to-follow checklist to get you back up and rolling in a jiffy. Follow these steps below to get started
Steps to Change Your Tire:
- Find a Safe Location: In the event your tire goes flat while driving, pull over to the side of the road safely and turn your hazard lights on. Shift into Park and set the parking brake.
- Locate your VW Spare Tire, Jack, and Lug Wrench: You'll find these three items in the trunk of your VW Jetta.
- Loosen the Lug Nuts: Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts clockwise-do not remove them yet.
- Pro Tip:Don't be afraid to throw some elbow grease in when loosening them, as they're usually very tight.
- Jack Up the Car:Crank the jack until the flat tire is off the ground.
- Pro Tip:Before you jack your car up, check your owner's manual to find where to place the jack.
- Remove Lug Nuts, Pull Tire Off, and Put On the Spare: When putting the spare tire on, line up the holes in the tire rim with protruding lug nut posts. Next, push the spare on the wheelbase.
- Place Lug Nuts On the Spare: Tighten the lug nuts with your hand first, and then use the wrench to make them snug.
- Lower Your VW Jetta: Use the jack to lower your sedan to the ground.
- Tighten Lug Nuts: Finally, use the wrench to tighten the lug nuts fully. Place your tire, jack, and lug wrench back in your trunk-and get back to cruisin'.
Not comfortable doing it yourself? You can stop by our service center to have your tires replaced if you notice any wear and tear.
How Long Do Tires Last?
Typically, your VW Jetta's tires will last around four to six years, depending on climate, road conditions, quality of the tire, and your driving behavior. To make your tires last longer, practice safer driving behavior by avoiding turning abruptly, accelerating quickly, and braking suddenly.
What Are the Warning Signs of Aging Tires?
To keep you driving longer, look out for these warning signs to help you determine when you need to change your tires:
- Uneven Wear: If you notice spots on your tires that are more worn down than others, this can be a sign of improper tire pressure or misalignment. Regularly checking your tire pressure is a good way to prevent uneven wear from occurring.
- Excessive Vibration: Have you noticed your VW Jetta vibrating even while driving on a newly paved road? You may want to consider new tires because these vibrations can point to misalignment issues or problems with your tire's interior.
- Cracked and Gouged Sidewalls: Any swelling or cracking of your tires is unsafe. If you notice your tires are damaged, have them replaced immediately to avoid a tire blowout.
Make Sure to Keep an Eye On Your Tires
Keep your VW Jetta cruising longer by keeping a watchful eye on your tires, especially if you notice any of the aforementioned warning signs. Have any more questions? Call Oklahoma City VW near Oklahoma City, Edmond, and Norman, Oklahoma. We're happy to help!