How to change a tire? Change a flat tire in 11 steps

How to change a tire? Change a flat tire in 11 steps

 

Is there anything more annoying than a flat tire? No matter where you're going, a flat tire can happen any time and might become a huge pain. It is something that we usually don't think about learning how to do.

If you don't have a roadside assistance to rescue you right away, you better learn how to change a tire. I prepared this post to show you step by step how to easily get out of this uncomfortable situation and be able to drive to the closest tire shop.

You can change a flat tire in 15 min if you know the steps and have with you all the necessary tools.

But before you start, here are some safety measures you want to make sure to apply to prevent that another accident happens in consequence of your flat tire:

1. Find a safe place to pull over. Try your best to find a safe spot to park and always look for a flat surface.

2. Turn on your hazard/emergency lights and parking brake.

3. If you are on the street or highway, use reflective warning signs if you have one available. Place few feet behind your vehicle.

What do I need to change a flat tire?

Here is what you need to make to carry with you to be prepared to fix a flat tire when it happens to you:

·       Your vehicle's owner manual

·       Wrench Lug

·       Spare tire

·       Car Jack

You might also want to carry with you a rain poncho, mat for kneeling, gloves, and flashlights. These extra items might help the process feel easier.

How do I change a tire? Step by step guide

Your spare tire and jack stand will most likely be in the trunk of your car, underneath the mat. Make sure to check time to time if it is fully inflated. If you don't find them, check your vehicle's manual to see if your vehicle has them and where they are located.

Step 1: Pull off the road and park in a safe place.

Step 2: Turn on emergency lights, set the parking brake and secure the area.

Step 3: Use a rock or wooden wedges to block the tire on the opposite side of the flat tire to prevent the vehicle of rolling.

Step 4: Take the spare tire, jack and wrench from the trunk of your vehicle (or wherever they are located). Place them next to you to make the process easier.

Step 5: Using the wrench (turn it counterclockwise), loosen the lug nuts on the wheel with the flat tire.

Step 6: Lift the vehicle up with the help of the jack stand until the wheel is off the ground and remove the lug nuts completely.

Step 7: Remove the flat tire.

Step 8: Mount the spare tire and start tightening the lug nuts.

Step 9: Lower the vehicle completely and remove the jack.

Step 10: Tighten the lug nuts once more. (To make sure they are completely tight and safe)

Step 11: Place the wheel, the flat tire and all the tools back in the car.

Don't forget to put back the wheel cover and if your vehicle has one. You're all set to drive to the closest body shop or service station to have your flat tire repaired or replaced.

If you are not comfortable doing this process yourself, pull off the road and call your roadside assistance. It is always better to safe than sorry, and safety is not something you want to mess up with.

 

7 ways of how to prevent flat tires

1 - Check the tire pressure regularly

It is a good practice to check the pressure of your vehicle's tires using a tire pressure gauge at least once a month according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Wait couple of hours before checking the pressure to avoid an inaccurate reading from the tires being warm.

If you are not sure what is the correct pressure for your tires, check your vehicle manufacturer's manual.

Also inspect your spare tire to make sure it has no defects and is in good condition. Replace it right away in case you find any defects on the side wall.

2 - Check the tire tread

You can easily find a tread-depth gauge in any auto parts store. Make sure it complies with your states regulations and are safe enough to drive.

3 - Stay away from hazardous

I know it is hard to prevent it, but you can try to avoid construction sites. Avoid routes with sharp rocks, nails, and potholes.

4 - Avoid overloading

Overload vehicle may ruin your tires or trigger a blowout. You can find the maximum weight your vehicle should carry on your owner's manual, or you can also check on the tire label that is usually located on the door jam or B pillar, next to the VIN tag.

5 - Rotate the tires

Rotate the tires regularly can help them wear evenly and last longer. Check your owner's manual to see how often your tires should be rotated. It will also be a good opportunity to inspect the tires for any damages on the sidewall.

6 - Watch for take recalls

You can check for any recalls on your vehicle, including take recalls on the NHTSA website. Check for recalls at least once on each six months.

You might also want to read about: 

 ⮞ What is a recall?

 ⮞ How to read a tire size?

 ⮞ What is a VIN number and where to find it?

 ⮞ How to drive safe in the snow?

7 - Buy quality tires for your vehicle

Don't save on safety. You may consider buying better quality tires with longer wear warranties.

Make sure to bring your vehicle to a mechanic for professional advice if you think your vehicle might have any mechanical problems.

Best,

Car Safe Car Team