Final answer:
The proper order for tightening wheel lug nuts is in a star or crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure. Start at the top, move diagonally, and repeat until all lug nuts are tightened.
Step-by-step explanation:
The proper order for tightening wheel lug nuts is to tighten them in a star or crisscross pattern. This helps ensure even pressure is applied to each lug nut, preventing one side of the wheel from being tightened more than the other. Start by tightening the lug nut at the top of the wheel, then move diagonally to the bottom lug nut on the opposite side. Next, move to the lug nut on the right side of the wheel, then diagonally to the lug nut on the left side. Repeat this sequence until all lug nuts are tightened. Using this tightening pattern helps prevent the wheel from becoming unbalanced or warped due to uneven pressure during the tightening process.