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.
