How to change an ATV tires? A Step-by-Step Guide

ATV tires need to be replaced when they wear off while riding over time. Sharpen obstacles on off-road trails always damage tires.

So, How long should ATV tires last? Normally, it would be best if you replace ATV tires around 2-3 years of daily Rides or a few hundred miles to 5,000 miles.

How do you know your ATV tires need to be replaced? If your ATV tires are getting bald, have recent Cracks or Punctures, or feel Vibration while riding with Weird Noises, your ATV will require tire replacement. In most cases, if you buy new tires from a tire shop, they will replace them for free. But if you go for only changing tires, there will be a cost.

So, how much can it cost you for ATV tire change? Mostly, you will cost around $10 – $30 per tire, depending on the service provider. Also, it will cost you significant time too.

You can change your ATV tires at home with a few tools and little tricks in a few steps! It’s a skill that you need to gain as a rider. In this article, I’ll go through How to change ATV tires by hand at home while saving your money and time. Let’s ride in!

How to change an ATV tires at home?

You are going to need a few tools to begin. Here is the list that we are going to use in the guide. Most of you have them in your home.Gather them, and let’s start the process.

• New Tires: I recommend replacing a pair of tires at the same time to get the best performance and safety.
• Floor Jack: For lifting the ATV off the ground.
• Torque wrench and socket set: To loosen and tighten nuts.
• Tire Irons: Essential for tire removal and installation.
• Bead Breaker: If your tire isn’t flat, you may need this to break the bead.
• Air Compressor and tire gauge: To inflate your new tires to the correct pressure.
• Valve stem tool: to remove air on the tire

Step-by-Step guide to change your ATV tires

1. Preparation: Park your ATV on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Loosening Lug Nuts: Use your trusty lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts that secure the wheel in place.
3. Lifting the ATV: Place the floor jack under the ATV’s frame and elevate it until the wheel you intend to change is off the ground.
4. Wheel Removal: Carefully remove the lug nuts and wheel.
5. Remove the air from the tire: removing the valve stems or depressing the valve stem nut will remove all the air on it.

Here comes the tricky part of the operation! You can go through these 2 types, and the most efficient and easy way is to use a bead breaker.

6. Breaking the Bead: If your tire isn’t flat, you’ll need to break the bead before removal. There are two methods to accomplish this:

• Using a Bead Breaker: Position the bead breaker on the tire’s bead and tighten it until the bead breaks.
• Using Tire Irons: Place two tire irons opposite each other on the tire’s bead and gently pry down until the bead breaks.

7. Removing the Tire: Once the bead is broken, you can proceed to remove the tire from the rim. Use the tire irons to gently pry the tire off the rim, starting at one side and working your way around until the tire is completely removed.

8. Installing the New Tire: There are a few steps to follow. Let’s finish the business!

• Clean the rim:  make sure to clean the rim to avoid getting any particles to the new tire.
• Lude the new tire: lubing the tire makes mounting easy. Use dish soap and water. 
• Mount the New Tire: Place the new tire on the rim, ensuring that the bead of the tire is properly seated in the groove of the rim.
• Tire Bead Installation: Use the tire irons again to pry the bead of the tire over the rim. Begin at one side and work your way around until the bead is completely seated on the rim.
• Inflation: Inflate the tire to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure and check with a tire gauge. Also, You can read my full article about ATV tire pressure from here and get to know every important tip you want to know before Inflating your brand-new tires.
• Reattach the Wheel: Reinstall the wheel on the ATV and securely tighten the lug nuts. Avoid overtightening the lug nuts to prevent damage to the wheel and make future tire changes easier.
• Lowering the ATV: Carefully lower your ATV to the ground, and remember to remove the jack stand.

What is the ATV tire bead?

The tire bead is essentially the tire’s outer edge that snuggly sits on the wheel. What keeps it in place is the air pressure inside the tire and a little bump on the rim called the bead retainer.

Breaking the bead of an ATV tire might sound like a challenge, mainly because ATV tires roll with lower pressure and have a bigger bead retainer bump. The tire bead is designed to stop the tire from popping off when you’re navigating rough trails.

How do you break ATV tire bead easily?

Breaking the bead of an ATV tire might sound tricky, but we’ve got a simple and safe way to do it. You don’t need fancy machines—just a valve stem tool, some soapy water or lubricant, and a bead breaker tool like the Black Widow Tire Bead Breaker.

1. Lay your tire flat on a sturdy surface and use the valve stem tool to let the air out. It’s the quickest way to deflate your tire.
2. In a spray bottle, mix some soapy water or use lubricant paste, and give the tire’s edges a good spray. Think of it like giving your tire a little slip ‘n slide.
3. Here’s where the bead breaker tool comes in. We like the Black Widow Pro version because it’s super adjustable. Set your wheel on a tire block and make sure the rim’s edge lines up with the pressure plate.
4. Once everything’s lined up, pull down on your bead breaker tool. Apply some pressure until you hear a satisfying “pop.” That’s the sound of the bead breaking free. You should spray and repeat this on other parts of the tire, doing it all over again for the other side.
5. With the bead broken, it’s time to get the tire off. 

When to Replace Your ATV Tires?

The frequency of ATV tire replacement depends on several factors. Those are the Terrain you ride, your riding habits, and the Quality of your tires.

• Riding Terrains : Your choice of Terrain can either extend the life of your ATV tires or accelerate their replacement. If you’re a fan of rough, rocky trails that test the limits of your ATV’s suspension, your tires will bear the brunt and wear down more swiftly. In contrast, those who prefer smoother, flatter paths can expect their tires to last a bit longer.
• Riding Habits : If you’re a daily rider, your tires will naturally see more action, and that means they’ll require more frequent replacements. The more you hit the trails, the more often you might need to swap out those tires.
• The Quality of the tires : Not all tires are created equal. The Quality of the tires you choose plays a pivotal role in determining their lifespan. Opting for high-quality ATV tires may cost more upfront. Still, they can stand up to the challenges of rough trails and frequent use, ultimately saving you money in the long run.

On average, most ATV tires can be used for off-road trails approximately 2-3 years with regular use. But remember, this is a ballpark estimate. If your ATV roams the wilds frequently or braves the untamed, you might find yourself shopping for new tires more often.

What are the signs of an ATV tire going bad?

As with any good adventure, there comes a time to bid farewell to your trusty steed’s worn-out shoes. How do you know it’s time to make that change? Keep an eye out for these telltale signs:

• Tread Wear and balding: If your tire’s tread has worn down to less than a quarter of an inch, it’s time to think about replacement.
• Cracks and Tears: Any visible cracks or tears in the tire’s surface are a red flag – it’s time for a change.
• Bulging or Deformation: If your tire looks more like a balloon than a tire, you should consider swapping it out.
• Patchwork Quilt: Multiple punctures and repairs may mean it’s time for a fresh start.

Riding on tires that exhibit these signs isn’t just unwise; it can be downright dangerous, potentially leading to accidents. So, when you spot any of these red flags, it’s time to get your ATV the shoe makeover it deserves.

What is the ATV tire change cost?

Changing your ATV tire might be different. Here are the 4 factors that can swing the price.

• Tire Type: The kind of tire you pick matters. Some, like mud or snow tires, can be pricier.
• Tire Size: Bigger tires can mean a bigger bill.
• Tire Shop Location: Where you get the work done affects the cost. City shops charge more than rural ones.
• Labour Rate: The fee for the shop’s hard work can also vary.

Generally, changing an ATV tire at a shop can set you back around $20 to $30 per tire. Here are a few tips to keep your wallet happy.

• Look around for the best price at different shops.
• Consider buying your tires online; sometimes, that’s where the deals are.
• Be bold about asking if they offer discounts for changing multiple tires at once.

How to protect ATV tires for a long time?

Stock and after-market ATV tires can be used through mud, snow, and hard-packed Terrain, but they need some care. I previously wrote an article about How to Fix a Flat Tire on Your ATV with caring tips. You can read it here. Follow these steps to make your ATV tires last long! I am still on my first tire set by following these.

Choose the Right Tires for the Terrain

Different terrains call for different tires. Mud tires are your go-to for wet, sloppy conditions, while hard-pack tires handle solid surfaces like a champ. Picking the right tire for the job can make a big difference in how long it lasts.

Keep Your Tire Pressure in Check

Regularly check your tire pressure and make sure it’s at the level recommended by the manufacturer. Underinflated tires can get too hot and wear down fast. In contrast, overinflated tires, especially in the centre, also lead to quicker Wear and tear.

Tame Your Riding Style

While it’s fun to go all out on your ATV, aggressive riding can wear out your tires quickly. Avoid spinning them excessively, doing wheelies, or riding on unforgiving hard surfaces. They all take a toll on your tire treads.

Be a Tire Detective

Give your tires a once-over now and then. If you spot any cracks, tears, or strange bulges, don’t wait; get those tires replaced pronto.

Store with Care

When you’re not out on the trails, keep your ATV in a cool, dry place. Avoid direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, as they can do a number on your tires.

How to dispose of old ATV tires?

So, it’s time to part ways with your old ATV tires. But how do you do it in a way that’s easy on the environment and your community? I got you covered with simple, friendly tips.

• Local Tire Shop Drop-Off : One of the easiest ways to bid farewell to your old ATV tires is to swing by your local tire shop. They usually accept old tires for disposal, and it’s super convenient. Be prepared for a small fee, though.
• Recycling : Some areas have recycling programs for ATV tires. It’s a win-win situation – you help the environment by reducing landfill waste, and your tires get a fresh start. Just get in touch with your local waste management company to check if there’s a program near you.
• Donate for a Good Cause : If your tires are still in decent shape, you can give them a second life by donating them. Local ATV clubs or charities might gladly accept them. It’s a fantastic way to help others in your community.
• The Proper Goodbye : When none of the above options work for you, it’s time to do it the right way. Take your tires to a landfill or hazardous waste disposal facility. Always check with your local waste management company to find out the specific rules for disposing of ATV tires in your area.

The bottom line

Changing your ATV tires at home is easy. You need a few tools, a little skill, and pro tricks. I have got you covered with all the things you need to know and a step-by-step guide in my article. You can do it yourself at home without spending money and wasting time in tire shops.

Here is the last quick checklist! Just park on flat ground, lift your ATV with a jack, remove the old tire, and put on the new one. Remember to inflate it properly. Then, reattach the wheel, tighten the nuts, and lower your ATV. I hope you get all the things you want to know to change your ATV tires at home.