How to Change a Tire on a Car: A Step-by-Step Guide

At some point, most drivers will face the dreaded flat tire. While calling for roadside assistance is always an option, knowing how to change a tire yourself can save you time, money, and help you get back on the road faster. It’s a straightforward process, and with a little bit of preparation, anyone can do it! Here’s a step-by-step guide to changing a tire safely and effectively.

What You’ll Need

Before you begin, make sure you have these essential items in your car:

  • Spare tire (check it periodically to ensure it’s properly inflated)

  • Jack (typically found in your car’s trunk)

  • Lug wrench

  • Wheel wedges (or heavy stones/blocks)

  • Gloves (optional but recommended)

  • Flashlight (if changing the tire at night)

Step 1: Find a Safe Location

When you realize you have a flat, don’t slam on the brakes or swerve. Instead:

  • Gradually slow down and find a flat, stable, and safe place to pull over, such as the shoulder of a road, a parking lot, or a quiet side street.

  • Avoid stopping on a slope or near a curve where visibility may be limited for other drivers.

  • Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers that you’re stopped.

Step 2: Apply the Parking Brake and Use Wheel Wedges

Once you’re in a safe spot:

  • Engage the parking brake to prevent your car from rolling while you change the tire.

  • Place wheel wedges (or heavy objects) in front of or behind the tires to add extra stability. If you’re changing a rear tire, put the wedges in front of the front tires, and vice versa.

Step 3: Loosen the Lug Nuts

Now that your car is secure, it’s time to work on the flat tire:

  • Remove the hubcap, if necessary, to access the lug nuts.

  • Use the lug wrench to turn the lug nuts counterclockwise. Loosen them slightly (but don’t remove them entirely just yet), as it’s easier to do this while the car is still on the ground.

Pro Tip: If the lug nuts are tight, you may need to put some extra force on the wrench by pressing down with your foot.

Step 4: Lift the Car with the Jack

Next, locate the correct spot for the jack under your car:

  • Most vehicles have designated jack points just behind the front wheels and in front of the rear wheels. Consult your car’s manual if you’re unsure where these are.

  • Place the jack beneath the jack point closest to the flat tire. Then, raise the car until the tire is about 6 inches off the ground. Make sure the jack is secure and stable before proceeding.

Step 5: Remove the Lug Nuts and the Flat Tire

With the car lifted:

  • Finish unscrewing the lug nuts and set them aside in a safe place.

  • Carefully pull the flat tire straight toward you until it’s free from the hub. Place it flat on the ground to prevent it from rolling away.

Step 6: Mount the Spare Tire

It’s time to put on the spare:

  • Align the spare tire with the wheel bolts and push it into place.

  • Put the lug nuts back on by hand, turning them clockwise until they’re snug. Don’t tighten them fully just yet, as you’ll do that once the car is back on the ground.

Step 7: Lower the Car and Tighten the Lug Nuts

Once the spare tire is in place:

  • Use the jack to carefully lower the car until the spare tire is resting on the ground, but not fully supporting the car’s weight.

  • Use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a star or crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure. This helps the wheel stay balanced.

  • Fully lower the car to the ground and remove the jack.

Step 8: Tighten the Lug Nuts Again

After lowering the car:

  • Tighten each lug nut one last time, following the same star pattern. Give each nut a good pull to ensure they’re tight.

Step 9: Stow Away Your Tools and Flat Tire

Now that the job is done:

  • Place the flat tire, jack, wrench, and any other tools back into your trunk.

  • If your car has a hubcap that fits on the spare, replace it now. If not, store it in the trunk.

Step 10: Check the Spare Tire’s Pressure and Drive Cautiously

  • If you have a tire pressure gauge, check the pressure of the spare to make sure it’s safe to drive on. If not, drive to a nearby service station to inflate it as soon as possible.

  • Remember, most spare tires are temporary solutions meant for short distances, so drive cautiously and avoid high speeds until you get a full-sized replacement.

Final Thoughts

Changing a tire might feel intimidating if it’s your first time, but with a bit of practice, it can become second nature. By knowing these steps, you’re better prepared to handle a flat tire situation with confidence and ease. Safe travels!