Flat tires are one of the most common problems that cars can have. Fortunately, they’re also one of the easiest to fix. Everyone should know how to change their car’s tires.
Why it Matters
Many car problems have simple solutions and can be resolved on your own. Everyone should have some basic car repair Brigham City UT knowledge, including knowing how to change a tire. That way, if you’re ever stranded on the side of the road with no assistance, you’ll know what to do.
1. Be Safe
When you notice you have a problem with your tire, you should try to find a safe place to stop, such as a parking lot. Turn on your hazards and put up any reflective devices you have to make sure you are visible to other drivers.
2. Turn Lug Nuts
First, remove your car’s hubcap if it has one. Then use a wrench to loosen each lug nut until you can easily turn them by hand.
3. Use the Jack
You’ll want to place the jack under the car where it is only in contact with metal framing, as it could bend plastic. Next, raise the jack until the tire is off of the ground.
4. Remove the Tire
You will now remove the lug nuts that you loosened. Then, you will pull the tire towards yourself to remove it.
5. Replace the Tire
Place your spare tire on the car by lining it up with the lug nut posts and pushing towards the car.
6. Tighten Lug Nuts
Put the lug nuts back on the posts and tighten them to secure the tire. Tighten them in small increments in a rotation. Tighten them as much as you can.
7. Lower the Car and Check Lug Nuts
You will then lower the car and remove the jack. Check to see if any of the lug nuts can be tightened more.
Once these steps are completed, your car will be drivable again. You should then take your car to a tire shop to replace the tires.