Motorists who forget to slow down can be in for an unpleasant surprise in traffic.
Flat tires can cause up to 900 accidents each year, according to a survey conducted by the Swedish Tire Safety Council. “Even the professionals make mistakes, and here stress in the workshops and the short shift time in the spring can be an important reason,” writes the organization.
Re-tightening the wheels a few miles after the change is made is important. But contrary to what many may think, it’s not about screwing up as hard as possible.
– Many people call it re-tightening, but it’s not about tightening as hard as possible, but about checking that bolts or nuts are properly tightened, says Peter Norlin at the Association of Tire, Rim and Accessory Suppliers.
Short changeover time of only two weeks in the spring makes many people feel stressed to change during a limited period.
– On the one hand it can be difficult to get the wheels changed on time, and on the other hand the stress in the workshops increases the risk of mistakes, says Lasse Dahlqvist at the Tire Specialists’ National Association.
When changing the wheels, the bolts/nuts should be tightened in a transverse pattern (crosswise) with a moderate torque. Then an adjusted torque wrench is used to further tighten (also cross-wise) to the torque recommended by the car manufacturer. Retighten after 5-10 miles of driving according to the same principle.
You can find more advice for changing tires here.
