When a customer rolls in with a luxury vehicle, the job doesn’t just get more expensive—it gets more demanding. Whether it’s a Corvette C8, a BMW M Series, or a Mercedes-AMG, these cars come loaded with high-end materials, complex wheel setups, and sensitive systems that leave no room for shortcuts. 

If you’re running a busy shop or managing multiple locations, getting these wheel changes right is non-negotiable. Let’s break down why working on luxury wheels requires a different approach—and how the right equipment and process can protect both the vehicle and your reputation. 

Why Luxury Wheels Are a Different Kind of Challenge 

These aren’t standard sedans you’re working on. Luxury and performance vehicles bring a unique set of hurdles: 

• Tight tolerances — Carbon-ceramic brakes, advanced TPMS sensors, and big brake kits leave little room for error. 

• High-stakes materials — Polished aluminum, matte-black finishes, and forged wheels and even carbon fiber are easy to scuff and expensive to fix. 

• Staggered wheel setups — Differently sized front and rear wheels mean extra care in rotation and replacement. 

• Emotional value — Owners of high-end vehicles often treat their cars like part of the family. That means they notice everything—from a scratch to the way their car is handled on the lift. 

This isn’t just a tire change—it’s a test of your team’s precision and your shop’s professionalism. 

What You Need: Tools That Protect the Wheel and Speed Up the Job 

The right tools don’t just make the job easier—they make it safer, cleaner, and more consistent. That’s why shops that work on luxury vehicles lean into Coats equipment like the MAXX 90 Tire Changer and the MAXX Wheel Lift. 

Here’s how they help when tackling stiff-sidewall tires like the Corvette C8’s 245/45 ZR19: 

• Leverless Duckhead: No prying, no risk of scratching. Just controlled movement that protects expensive finishes. 

• Robo Arm + Robo Roller: Keeps beads in place and under control—especially useful with tight, low-profile tires. 

• MAXX Wheel Lift: No more back strain. Lift the wheel precisely into position every time. 

These aren’t luxury features—they’re necessities when one small mistake could cost thousands. If you’re an independent shop, having these tools lets you deliver the kind of experience luxury customers expect without sending them to the dealership. 

Steps for a Smooth, Safe Wheel Change 

The process matters just as much as the tools. Here’s a proven approach to luxury wheel changes that avoids common pitfalls: 

1. Prep the Vehicle

Start with a full inspection: 

• Remove all wheel weights and release air pressure. 

• Photograph each wheel before starting—this protects both your shop and the customer if there’s a question later. 

• Use a lift like the MAXX Wheel Lift to avoid mishandling during setup. 

2. Loosen the Bead (Carefully)

Luxury tires are known for stiff sidewalls and sensitive components. Use the MAXX 90’s bead loosening shovel to apply consistent, gentle pressure. It’s designed to avoid damaging TPMS sensors or digging into expensive rims. Using the optional protective cover for the bead loosener is also a good idea. 

Rubber clamp inserts (like Grip Max 2.0) prevent marring on powder-coated, painted, or chrome finishes—so you can clamp down without leaving a mark. 

3. Mount and Dismount with Control

This is where many shops get into trouble. Traditional tire bars can slip or scratch a wheel—especially with run-flats or low-profile performance tires. 

Instead: 

• Use the leverless duckhead to peel tires off without prying. 

• Use the Robo Arm and Robo Roller to handle the lower bead and hold everything in place. 

• Apply proper lube—no shortcuts here—to reduce friction and bead damage or tearing. 

4. Final Check Before Remounting

Before the new tire goes on: 

• Clean the inner barrel of the wheel—debris or corrosion can mess with bead seating. 

• Check for directional tread and staggered setup. Getting this wrong can affect vehicle performance and wear. 

Then, remount with the correct torque (not a guess) using a calibrated torque wrench. Remember, many luxury vehicles use locking lug nuts, which may require a dedicated tool 

Mistakes That Cost Shops Time—and Customers 

Even experienced techs slip up when working on performance vehicles. Avoid these common issues: 

• Skipping lube: Dry mounting can damage beads or damage the finish on expensive wheels finish. 

• Over-torquing lug nuts: This will stretch the threads if the studs don’t snap and compromise their clamping ability. 

• TPMS damage:  improper sensor position  when mounting or dismounting can mean a pricey and time-consuming replacement  

• Using outdated tools: Standard changers or basic steel clamps aren’t built for this level of work. 

Every missed step opens the door for comebacks, complaints, or damage claims—none of which your team needs. 

Deliver a Premium Experience That Builds Trust 

Servicing luxury vehicles is an opportunity, not a burden. It’s a chance to show that your shop takes pride in its work, invests in the right tools, and trains its team to handle the job right the first time. 

With equipment like the Coats MAXX 90 and MAXX Wheel Lift, you’re not just speeding up workflow—you’re reducing technician fatigue, protecting high-dollar wheels, and proving your shop is serious about quality. 

That’s how independent shops build word-of-mouth. That’s how multi-outlet operators keep service consistent across locations. And that’s how you make high-end customers feel like they’re in the right hands. 

The Bottom Line 

Luxury car owners expect more—because their vehicles demand more. But with the right process and the right tools, your shop can deliver. 

Whether you’re running a neighborhood garage or a multi-location service business, Coats makes it easier to take on the tough jobs and come out ahead. Fewer risks, faster turnarounds, and a better customer experience. That’s the kind of service that keeps customers coming back—and sending their friends your way. 

Want to see the Coats MAXX 90 in action? Check out our Tough 2 Change video series. Or call 1-800-688-6359 to talk with a Coats rep who’s been there and knows what your shop really needs.