How to Change a Tire in 10 Easy Steps

Having the skill to change a tire is a must for every driver. Depending solely on your cell phone for roadside assistance might not always work out as expected. Sometimes, your phone might be uncharged, out of signal range, or even forgotten at home. Flat tires can occur at any place and time, and in such situations, knowing how to change a tire can be invaluable.

The good news is that changing a tire is easier than it may seem. By following the steps below, you'll be well-prepared if you find yourself dealing with a flat tire. Ready? Let’s get started.

Step 1: Find a Safe Spot

• Pull over to a location with level ground, such as the side of the road or a nearby parking lot.
• Set the emergency brake and turn on your hazard lights.

Pro Tip: If you’re parked on a hill, place a heavy object (like a rock or log) behind a tire to prevent rolling.

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Step 2: Gather Your Tools and Locate the Spare Tire

• Retrieve your owner's manual, spare tire, and tools (like the lug wrench and jack).
• Inspect the flat tire. If lug nuts are hidden behind a hubcap, loosen the hubcap screws and remove it.
• Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts slightly. Do not remove them yet.

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Step 3: Position the Jack and Lift the Car

• Refer to your owner’s manual to identify the correct jack placement, usually under the car’s frame.
• Turn the jack clockwise to lift the car until the flat tire is off the ground.

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Step 4: Remove the Lug Nuts and the Flat Tire

• Fully unscrew the loosened lug nuts using the lug wrench or your hand.
  Remember: Left = Loose.
• Pull the flat tire straight off the wheel by gripping and pulling it toward you.

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Step 5: Mount the Spare Tire

• Align the holes on the spare tire with the screws on the wheel hub.
• Push the spare tire onto the hub until it fits securely.

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Step 6: Secure the Lug Nuts

Screw the lug nuts back onto the wheel by hand, turning them to the right.Remember: Right = Tight.

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Step 7: Lower the Car and Tighten the Lug Nuts

• Slowly lower the car by turning the jack counterclockwise until it rests fully on the ground.
• Use the lug wrench to tighten each lug nut as securely as possible.

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Step 8: Final Checks

• If possible, check the air pressure of your spare tire at a nearby gas station.
• Remember, spare tires are temporary solutions. Drive to the nearest tire shop to repair or replace the damaged tire as soon as possible.

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Bonus Tip: Consider Roadside Assistance Coverage

Some auto insurance quotes include roadside assistance coverage, offering peace of mind in case of emergencies like a flat tire. Want to explore affordable options? Check out auto insurance quotes with $0 down and find a policy that fits your needs today!