If you ever find yourself with a flat tire, don’t panic! Changing a tire is not as hard as it may seem. You just need some basic tools, a safe spot to park, and some patience. If you want to learn how to change a tire, make sure to follow the simple and easy steps below!
Step 1: Make sure your spare tire is in the car
While it may seem strange, check for the spare tire, especially if the vehicle has been preowned before. A lot of people leave the spare at home because it takes up a lot of space and can be inconvenient.
Step 2: Find a safe place to stop
As soon as you notice that you have a flat tire, look for a safe place to pull over. Ideally, you want to park on level, solid ground, away from traffic - for example, in a parking lot. Turn on your hazard lights and apply the parking brake. If you have wheel wedges or blocks, by any chance, place them under the tires on the opposite side of the flat to prevent the car from rolling.
Step 3: Get your tools and loosen the lug nuts
Open your trunk and get your spare tire, jack, and lug wrench. These are usually located under a cover or in a compartment in the trunk. Use the lug wrench to slightly loosen the lug nuts. You may need to use some force to break them loose.
Step 4: Lift the car with the jack
Next, find the jacking point that is closest to the flat tire. If you don't jack up the car at the jacking points, you may damage the chassis. After the car is in the air, give it a shake to ensure that it is safe to work on.
Step 5: Remove the flat tire and install the spare
Now that the car is in the air, remove the lug nuts completely. Next, get the spare tire and install it by aligning the wheels and tightening the lug nuts, but not all the way because the wheel will start to spin.
Step 6: Lower the car and tighten the lug nuts
Lower the jack until the spare tire touches the ground, and remove the jack. Use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts completely in a star pattern, alternating between opposite nuts. Don’t over-tighten them, but make sure they are secure. Put your tools and flat tire back in your trunk, and you’re done!
Tire Repairs And Changes At Guthrie's Auto Service Inc!
If your tire has been punctured and needs repairs or you need a new set, make sure to stop by our shop! Our mechanics will be happy to help with any tire or car-related issue you might have!