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Audi: How to Change a Tire

You won't need a certificate in automotive mechanics to change the tires on your Audi, just a few simple materials. Here's how.

By Charlie Gaston - March 18, 2016

This article applies to the Audi Q5/Q7, A3, A4 B7, A4 B8, A6 C5, A6 C6.

Changing a tire on an Audi is a remarkably easy job that every Audi driver should know how to do. Best of all, you won't need a toolbox full of expensive, specialized tools to get the job done right. If you're wondering under what circumstances you would need to change or dismount the tire(s) on your car, the most common reasons include: fixing a leaky tire, painting your brake calipers, or performing some type of wheel modification. Whatever your reason is for needing to change the tire(s) on your Audi, we have the complete instructions you'll need to get the job done right.

Materials Needed

  • Wrench
  • Replacement tire (optional) or spare
  • Locking wheel bolt adapter
  • Cap removal tool
  • Jack

Step 1 – Prepare the bolts

  • Head to the cargo area of your Audi.
  • Lift the cover that holds your spare tire.
  • Free the spare wheel, and then grab your jack.
  • You'll also need your wrench, locking wheel bolt adapter, and cap removal tool (it's shaped like a hook).
  • Use the small hook to pull off the bolt covers, and then set all the items aside.
    • Figure 1. This is the cap removal tool.
  • Use the wrench and locking wheel bolt adapter to unlock the locking wheel bolt.
  • Loosen (but do not remove) all remaining bolts.
  • Remember to turn the wrench in a counterclockwise direction.
Figure 2. This is a wheel locking bolt adapter. Attach it to the end of your wrench.

Pro Tip

It's highly recommended that you avoid changing a tire on or near a busy road or intersection. If you must stop in a high traffic area, use your hazard warning lights to notify other drivers of your circumstance. As well, pull the parking brake and ask all passengers to exit the vehicle. They will need to move to a safe location out of the way.

Step 2 – Jack up the car

  • Go ahead and grab your jack and slide it under your car.
  • Make sure it's aligned with the jacking point (near the wheel) before you begin winding the handle.
  • You will need to wind the handle until there is at least one to two inches of space between the bottom of the tire and the ground.
  • With your car completely off the ground, go ahead and remove the bolts completely.
  • Once you are done, set them to the side.
Figure 3. Only use a jack on level ground.

Pro Tip

Do not lie underneath your vehicle at any point during this process.

Step 3 – Pull off the wheel

  • Grab the wheel with both hands and pull it off.
  • This shouldn't require any force.
  • If you are unable to remove the wheel, then go ahead and seek outside help, such as a emergency roadside service technician or a local mechanic or an Audi dealer.

Step 4 – Mount the spare or new tire

  • If you are changing a flat tire, go ahead and mount the spare or replacement tire of your choice.
  • Fit all the bolts, and then screw them into place.
  • Do NOT tighten them, however.
  • Lower the jack until your tire once again touches the ground.
  • Tighten the bolts until they are 100% secure.
Figure 4. Secure the bolts.

Featured Video: How to Change a Tire on an Audi

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