Changing a tire is a basic yet essential skill that every driver should possess. Knowing how to change a tire can save you time and money, as well as ensure your safety on the road. Whether you encounter a flat tire or need to replace a worn-out tire, we at Citywide Towing Service would like to provide a step-by-step guide on how to properly change a tire.
How to Change a Tire Checklist
1) Find a safe location. When you realize you have a flat tire or need to change a tire, the first step is to find a safe location away from traffic. Pull over to the side of the road, ensuring that you are on level ground and far enough from passing vehicles.
2) Gather the necessary tools. Before you begin changing the tire, make sure you have the required tools readily available. These usually include a spare tire, lug wrench, jack, and wheel wedges. These tools are usually located in your vehicle’s trunk or storage area.
3) Apply the wheel wedges. Wheel wedges are used to prevent your vehicle from rolling. Place them against the opposite side of the flat tire, if you’re changing a rear tire, place them in front of the front tires. This adds an extra level of safety during the tire-changing process.
4) Loosen the lug nuts. Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire. Do not remove them completely at this stage, just loosen them. It’s easier to loosen them while the weight of the vehicle is still on the tire.
5) Position the jack. Locate the designated jacking points on your vehicle. These points are usually indicated in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. Place the jack under the vehicle’s frame near the flat tire and ensure it is securely positioned.
6) Lift the vehicle. Begin cranking the jack to lift the vehicle off the ground. Raise it until the flat tire is around 6 inches above the ground. Avoid placing any body parts underneath the vehicle during this process for safety reasons.
7) Remove the lug nuts and flat tire. Now that the vehicle is lifted, you can completely remove the lug nuts. Place them in a safe location so that they don’t roll away. Next, carefully remove the flat tire by pulling it straight toward you.
8) Install the spare tire. Take the spare tire and align it with the wheel bolts. Push it onto the wheelbase until it fits snugly. Then, tighten the lug nuts by hand as much as possible.
9) Lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts. Use the jack to lower the vehicle until the spare tire is touching the ground. At this point, use the lug wrench to securely tighten the lug nuts in a diagonal pattern. This ensures even tightening and prevents the wheel from becoming misaligned.
10) Lower the vehicle completely. Lower the vehicle to the ground and remove the jack carefully. Make sure all lug nuts are tightened to the proper torque specifications.
11) Check the tire pressure. After changing the tire, check the spare tire’s pressure to ensure it is within the recommended range. Adjust the pressure as necessary using an air pump or by visiting a nearby service station.
12) Replace or repair the flat tire. The final step is to address the flat tire. If the tire is repairable, take it to a tire repair shop. If it is irreparable or severely damaged, it is recommended to replace it with a new tire as soon as possible.
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Remember, changing a tire can be physically demanding, so take breaks if needed and stay hydrated. If you’re uncertain about any step, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or call for roadside assistance. With practice, you’ll become more proficient in changing tires and be prepared for unexpected situations on the road. Because of the time consuming, labor inducive project, as well as being potentially hazardous if done wrong, it may be in your better interest to call a towing and roadside assistance expert such as Citywide Towing Service and have them change your tire in the Greater Dallas, TX area.
