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Replacing damaged studs is essential to maintaining the safety and performance of your vehicle. Wheel studs or bolts are used to secure the wheel to the axle. They are subjected to a lot of stress and wear and tear, so it is important to inspect them regularly and replace them when necessary. Fortunately, removing wheel studs is a relatively simple task that can be done with a few basic tools.
The first step is to remove the wheel and tire. Once the wheel is off, you will need to locate the wheel studs. They are typically located on the back of the wheel hub. Once you have located the wheel studs, you will need to use a socket wrench to remove them. Be sure to use the correct size socket wrench, as using the wrong size can damage the wheel studs.
Locating the Wheel Studs
Wheel studs are located on the wheel hub or brake rotor and protrude through the wheel mounting holes. To locate the wheel studs, refer to the following steps:
1. Position the Vehicle
Park the vehicle on a flat, level surface and engage the parking brake to ensure it remains stationary.
2. Secure the Loose Lug Nuts
If possible, hand-tighten any loose lug nuts onto the wheel studs. This prevents them from falling off and makes them easier to remove later.
3. Identify the Wheel Hub or Rotor
Look behind the wheel at the center of the axle. You will see a large, circular component, which is either the wheel hub or brake rotor.
4. Locate the Holes in the Wheel
Examine the wheel and locate the holes where the studs pass through. These holes should be aligned with the holes in the wheel hub or rotor.
5. Match the Studs to the Holes
Carefully align the holes in the wheel with the studs on the wheel hub or rotor. The studs will usually have a slight taper or shape that matches the holes in the wheel. Ensure that the studs fit snugly into the holes to prevent any movement or play.
| Vehicle Type | Stud Location |
|---|---|
| Most passenger cars and light trucks | On the wheel hub, behind the brake rotor |
| Some heavy-duty vehicles and older models | On the brake rotor itself |
How to Remove Wheel Studs
Wheel studs are commonly removed when replacing brake rotors or wheel bearings. They do not normally need to be replaced. Safety first: Be sure to chock the wheels opposite the one you will be working on. Depress the parking brake, put the vehicle in park (for automatics) or first gear (for manuals), and engage the emergency brake.
- Loosen the lug nuts: Use a tire iron or impact wrench to loosen the lug nuts but do not remove them completely. This will prevent the wheel from turning as you remove the studs.
- Remove the wheel: Lift the vehicle using a jack and place jack stands under the designated jack points. Remove the lug nuts and pull the wheel straight towards you.
- Expose the wheel studs: Behind the wheel you will see the studs sticking out of the wheel hub. Grip the stud with a pair of vice grips.
- Remove the studs: If the stud does not turn easily, spray it with penetrating oil and let it sit for a few minutes. Turn the vice grips counterclockwise to remove the stud. Be aware that studs may be difficult to remove and may require significant force.
- Replace the studs (optional): If you need to replace the studs, insert the new stud into the wheel hub. Tighten the stud using a lug nut. Be sure to torque the lug nut to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Reinstall the wheel: Lift the wheel onto the hub and tighten the lug nuts by hand as much as possible. Lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts fully using a torque wrench. Double-check the tightness of the lug nuts after driving a short distance.
People Also Ask About How to Remove Wheel Studs
How do you remove rusted wheel studs?
If the wheel studs are rusted, soak them in penetrating oil for several hours or overnight. This will help to loosen the rust and make them easier to remove. You can also try using a heat gun to heat up the studs, which will also help to loosen the rust.
Can you drive with a broken wheel stud?
No, you should not drive with a broken wheel stud. A broken wheel stud can cause the wheel to come loose, which can lead to an accident. If you have a broken wheel stud, it is important to have it replaced as soon as possible.
How much does it cost to replace a wheel stud?
The cost to replace a wheel stud will vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the labor rates in your area. However, you can expect to pay between $50 and $150 for the replacement.
