How to Change an EV Tire

To change an EV tire, disconnect charging, secure the vehicle, and lift only at the exact points shown in the model's owner manual. Use the required pad or adapter and a jack rated for the EV's weight. Never place a jack under the high-voltage battery enclosure, side rail, or unapproved underbody panel.

Why EV Tire Changes Need Extra Care

An electric vehicle can be heavier than a similar gasoline car because of its battery pack. The battery often spans much of the floor, leaving specific reinforced areas as the only approved lift points. Large wheels, acoustic foam, low-profile tires, air suspension, and model-specific TPMS settings can add more requirements.

EV Tire Change Safety Checklist

How to Change an EV Tire

1. 1
   Reach a protected location

   Stop on firm level ground, select Park, apply the parking brake, and use hazards and chocks.

2. 2
   Disconnect charging

   Unplug the cable and close the charge port. Follow any model-specific power-down or service procedure.

3. 3
   Identify the lift point

   Use the owner-manual diagram and inspect the exact point beside the flat tire. Install the required adapter.

4. 4
   Prepare the wheel

   Confirm the spare or replacement, pressure, socket, lock key, and jack capacity. Loosen fasteners before lifting.

5. 5
   Lift carefully

   Keep the saddle centered on the approved point and monitor it continuously. Never place any body part under the EV.

6. 6
   Install the wheel

   Remove the flat, fit the compatible wheel, and start all fasteners by hand.

7. 7
   Lower and finish

   Apply the specified sequence and torque, then complete TPMS or wheel-configuration steps.

Do Not Lift Under the Battery

Battery enclosures are not universal jack pads. Crushing, puncturing, or distorting a high-voltage battery can create electrical, thermal, and fire hazards. If the underside shows impact damage, leaking fluid, smoke, unusual odor, hissing, heat, or sparking, move away and contact emergency services.

What If the EV Has No Spare?

Many EVs use a tire inflator and sealant kit, run-flat tires, mobile tire service, or towing instead of a spare. Sealant is temporary and works only for eligible tread punctures. It cannot repair a sidewall cut, shredded tire, large hole, damaged wheel, or tire that has left the rim.

Tire Load, Range, and Replacement

Use a tire that meets the vehicle maker's size, load, speed, construction, and axle requirements. A low-load replacement can be unsafe even when the dimensions look correct. After installation, set cold pressure from the vehicle label and complete the required TPMS or wheel setup.

When to Call Roadside Assistance

• No approved spare or lift equipment is supplied.
• The lift point is damaged, hidden, or cannot be reached safely.
• The EV has air suspension and the correct service mode is unavailable.
• The battery or underbody may have been struck.
• The wheel is too heavy or the roadside location is unsafe.

For brand-specific lifting rules, read the Tesla tire guide. Also confirm whether the EV includes a spare before relying on a roadside wheel change.

Related Guides

• How to Change a Tesla Tire
• TPMS Light After Changing a Tire
• When to Call Roadside Assistance
• How to Change a Tire in 12 Steps