Tyre fitting involves several key techniques to ensure the tyre is securely and safely mounted on the wheel. Whether done in a garage or via mobile service, proper tyre fitting is essential for vehicle safety and performance. Here’s a breakdown of the most common tyre fitting techniques:

1. Manual Tyre Fitting

Used mainly for smaller tyres (bikes, wheelbarrows, etc.) or in remote/emergency settings without a machine.

Steps:

• Deflate and break the tyre bead using levers or bead breakers.

• Use tyre levers to pry the tyre off the rim.

• Manually mount the new tyre using tyre paste for lubrication.

• Inflate and ensure a proper bead seal.

Used When: No machinery is available, or for very small or specialty tyres.

2. Machine-Assisted Tyre Fitting

Standard in professional garages and mobile fitting vans.

Steps:

1. Remove the old tyre:

   • Use a bead breaker to loosen the tyre from the rim.

   • Clamp the wheel onto the tyre fitting machine.

   • Rotate the wheel as the machine removes the tyre.

2. Install the new tyre:

   • Apply bead lubricant to reduce friction and prevent damage.

   • Position the tyre on the rim and use the machine to mount it.

   • Inflate gradually, allowing the bead to “pop” into place.

3. Balance the wheel:

   • Use a wheel balancing machine to eliminate vibrations.

   • Add counterweights if needed.

Used When: Fitting car, van, or SUV tyres in most modern workshops and mobile units.

3. Run-Flat Tyre Fitting

Run-flat tyres have reinforced sidewalls and require extra care.

Techniques:

• Use a specially designed machine with powerful bead breakers.

• Take care not to damage the reinforced structure.

• Often requires a technician experienced with run-flat or low-profile tyres.

4. Low-Profile & Performance Tyres

These tyres have stiffer sidewalls and are trickier to fit.

Best Practices:

• Use protective rim clamps to avoid scratching alloy wheels.

• Apply ample bead lubricant.

• Precision is key—poor technique can cause rim or tyre damage.

5. TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System) Handling

Modern cars have sensors inside the tyre.

Careful Steps:

• Remove and reattach sensors carefully to avoid damage.

• Recalibrate or reset TPMS after fitting new tyres.

Best Practices Across All Techniques

• Always use bead lubricant for easier fitting.

• Check tyre rotation direction and pressure rating.

• Torque wheel nuts to manufacturer specifications.

• Perform a visual and pressure test after fitting.