Screwdrivers or tire tools should not be used to pry a tire bead away from the rim.

• A. Screwdrivers or tire tools should not be used to pry a tire bead away from the rim.
• B. Pry tools are preferred to pry the bead.
• C. Only air tools should be used to pry the bead.
• D. It is safe to pry the bead with any tool.

Answer: (A)

Bead removal must be done with tools and methods that protect the rim and bead. Screwdrivers and typical tire tools have sharp edges and can easily slip, gouging the bead seat, scratching or bending the rim, or damaging the bead itself. Such damage can lead to improper bead seating, leaks, or a dangerous failure of the tire mounting. That’s why the correct approach is to avoid using those tools and instead employ proper gear like bead breakers and rim-protecting tire irons, with the tire fully deflated and, if needed, lubricant to ease the bead over the rim. The other options imply using inappropriate or unsafe methods, which isn’t acceptable for safe maintenance.