How To Change A Tire: Step By Step

Changing a tire can be a tedious task, but it’s something that everyone should know how to do. So this article is here to walk you through the step-by-step process of changing a tire. It will provide you with all the information you need to know to complete this task safely and efficiently. So, whether you’re a first-time car owner or just need a refresher course, keep reading for everything you need to know about changing a tire!

The Value Of Knowing How To Change A Tire

Knowing how to change a tire is an invaluable asset for basic safety and independence. Changing a tire alone can help you avoid waiting on roadside assistance or spending money to have someone fix it for you. Not only can it save you time, but it can also keep you from being stranded in dangerous situations due to car malfunctions.

It’s also an excellent way to ensure that your tires are properly maintained, as frequently rotating and replacing them is key to prolonging their life and performance. Understanding how to change a tire isn’t just beneficial in case of emergency; you’ll also be less at the mercy of other people and can make sure that your car will be running safely most of the time.

The Supplies You Need

Before you get started with changing a tire, there are a few key supplies that you’ll need. Some of these items will be things you might already have at home or in your car, while others may need to be purchased specifically for this purpose. The first thing you’ll need is the jack and lug wrench that came with your car. These are essential tools for lifting your vehicle and loosening the bolts on the tire, so make sure you have them before attempting to change a tire.

Along with these basic tools, you may also consider investing in one or two spare tires to always be prepared. Other accessories that can be helpful include a flashlight in case you’re changing your tire at night and safety gear like gloves or protective eyewear to keep yourself safe from injury. With these items on hand, you’ll be ready to go whenever you need to change a tire!

Step 1: Find A Safe Place To Stop

One of the most important parts of changing a tire happens before you even get out of the vehicle is finding a safe place to pull over. Make sure you are far away from traffic and that there is enough space to safely get out of your car, preferably on flat ground.

You should also ensure that your car is in park and that the hand brake is engaged so it doesn’t move while you are working on changing the tire. Then before you get out, turn your hazard lights on to warn other cars on the road about your situation.

Step 2: Gather Your Supplies

Once your vehicle is safely stopped, take a moment to gather all of the tools and accessories you’ll need to change your tire. This usually includes your jack, lug wrench, spare tire or patch kit, flashlight (if needed), gloves (optional), and other necessary safety equipment.

Step 3: Loosen The Lug Bolts

Next, you’ll need to find the lug bolts on your tire located around the wheel’s perimeter. You may need to remove the hubcap or wheel cover on some vehicles, but most modern vehicles have exposed lug bolts. Using your lug wrench, loosen each bolt by turning them a few times in the opposite direction until they are loose enough to remove.

Ensure you avoid removing them completely during this step, as you’ll need to keep them in place for the next step. And if you find it challenging to loosen the bolts, you can wear gloves and spray a small amount of oil or WD-40 on them to make it easier.

Step 4: Lift Your Car Using The Jack

Once your lug bolts are all loosened, it’s time to use your jack to lift the vehicle. First, check your owner’s manual to ensure you use the jack correctly for your specific car model. Then, place the jack under a sturdy part of the vehicle and pump it until you feel it lifting. This will allow you to remove the tire and replace it with a spare or patch kit.

When you start pumping, ensure that no one is standing too close to or under your car, as this could be dangerous. Also, keep your jack in place once it has lifted the car and continue pumping until you’ve reached your desired height.

Step 5: Remove The Old Tire

Now that your vehicle is raised, it’s time to remove the old tire from the wheel hub, which usually involves removing the lug bolts completely and then pulling the tire away from the hub. Again, if you find it difficult to remove the bolts or pull off the tire, spray a small amount of oil or WD-40 on them to make it easier.

Step 6: Putting The New Tire On

Once your old tire is off, set it aside in a safe place and take a moment to clean any dirt or debris from your wheel hub. Then, you can place your spare tire or patch kit in place and secure it using the lug bolts. Just be sure to tighten each bolt securely, but not too tightly, as this could damage the wheel hub. And follow a star pattern when tightening the bolts, starting from the center and working your way outwards in a circle.

Step 7: Lower Your Car And Drive Off

With the new tire securely in place, it’s time to lower your car back to the ground. Simply use your jack to slowly and carefully lower the vehicle until the tire touches the ground. Once you’ve done this, use your lug wrench to tighten the lug bolts a final time, and then you can safely drive away.

Remember to keep an eye on your tire pressure and tread levels over the next few days, as they may need to be adjusted based on how much you’ve used your car since changing the tire. And if you ever find yourself in this situation again, be sure to keep your supplies in your vehicle at all times so that you’re prepared to change a tire quickly and easily.

You’re Ready To Change A Tire!

With this guide, learning how to change a tire is easy! Then with your newfound expertise, the only thing you will have to worry about is enjoying the open road! So if you ever find yourself in a situation where your tire is flat or damaged, follow these simple steps to get back on the road in no time. Always keep your tire-changing supplies in your car, so you’re always prepared for any situation.