How to Change a Tire

Before you start changing a tire, ensure that you're in a safe location. Park your vehicle on a flat, stable surface away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. If you have a spare tire, make sure it's in good condition and that you have the necessary tools: a lug wrench, a jack, and the spare tire.

Collect all the tools you will need. Typically, these include a spare tire, a lug wrench (to remove the lug nuts), and a jack (to lift the vehicle). Some cars may also require a locking lug nut key if they have lug nuts that cannot be removed with a standard lug wrench.

Using the lug wrench, turn the lug nuts counterclockwise to loosen them while the tire is still on the ground. It's best to do this before lifting the car, as it prevents the tire from spinning. Only turn each lug nut about a quarter turn; do not remove them yet.

Refer to your vehicle’s owner manual to locate the designated jacking points on your car. These are usually found near the rear or front wheels. Position the jack under this point and ensure it's stable before lifting the vehicle.

Once the jack is in position, pump the jack handle to lift the vehicle. Raise it high enough so that the flat tire is off the ground and clear for removal.

Now that the car is raised, use the lug wrench to completely remove the loosened lug nuts. Place them in a safe area so you don’t lose them. Once all the nuts are removed, carefully pull the flat tire off the wheel hub.

Align the spare tire with the wheel hub and push it onto the hub until it is snug. Replace the lug nuts by hand, turning them clockwise to hold the tire in place.

Using the lug wrench, carefully tighten each lug nut in a star pattern. This ensures that the tire is secured evenly. Make sure to do this while the car is still lifted.

Once the lug nuts are secure, lower the vehicle to the ground slowly using the jack. It’s important to do this slowly to avoid damage to the vehicle or the jack.

With the vehicle now on the ground, use the lug wrench to give each lug nut another turn in the same star pattern. This ensures the nuts are as tight as possible.

Put the flat tire, jack, lug wrench, and other tools back in your vehicle. Be sure to check the spare tire's pressure and ensure it is safe for driving.

After successfully changing your tire, it's advisable to visit a mechanic as soon as possible to repair or replace the flat tire. Make sure the spare tire is suitable for the roads you will be driving.