Tires and Wheels
7 LessonsTire construction, wear patterns, TPMS diagnosis, and wheel service best practices.
Overview
Tires are the only thing connecting the vehicle to the road. This module covers tire construction, load ratings, speed ratings, wear patterns, rotation patterns, TPMS systems, wheel balancing, and the knowledge needed to sell tires and wheel services confidently.
Key Components
- Tire construction and ratings
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- Wheel types and specifications
- Lug nuts and torque specs
- Valve stems and sensors
How It Works
Tires are engineered composites of rubber, steel, and fabric designed to grip the road, absorb impacts, support vehicle weight, and last tens of thousands of miles. TPMS sensors mounted in each wheel monitor pressure and alert the driver when pressure drops below the threshold.
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Join the Nation — FreeCommon Problems
- Uneven tire wear from alignment issues
- TPMS sensor battery failure
- Wheel vibration from balance or bent wheel
- Tire pressure loss from bead seat corrosion
- Wrong torque on lug nuts causing warped rotors
Diagnostic Tips
- Read wear patterns: inside edge = too much negative camber, center = overinflation
- TPMS relearn procedure varies by manufacturer
- Always torque lug nuts in a star pattern to spec
- Check runout on the wheel if vibration persists after balance
Related Systems
Braking
8 LessonsMaster hydraulic brakes — from rotor runout to master cylinder diagnosis.
ABS and Electronic Chassis
7 LessonsUnderstand ABS, traction control, stability control, and electronic brake distribution.
Steering
9 LessonsFrom rack and pinion to electric power steering — diagnose steering complaints with confidence.
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