How do I replace a tire?

Replacing a tire may seem daunting, but it is accomplishable as long as you follow these 9 steps!

🧰 What You’ll Need

Most cars come with the basics, but double-check you’ve got:

• Spare tire (fully inflated)

• Car jack

• Lug wrench (aka tire iron)

• Wheel wedges or heavy rocks (to stop rolling)

• Flashlight (if it’s dark)

• Gloves & a kneeling pad (optional but nice)

🔧 Step-by-Step: Changing the Tire

1. Apply Wheel Wedges

Place them behind the tires opposite the flat one to keep the car from rolling.

2. Remove the Hubcap (If Applicable)

Use a flathead screwdriver or the back of the lug wrench to pry it off gently.

3. Loosen the Lug Nuts

• Use the lug wrench to turn the nuts counterclockwise.

• Don’t take them off yet—just break the resistance.

• Pro tip: Stand on the wrench arm if they’re really stuck.

4. Position the Jack and Lift the Car

• Find your car’s jack point (check the owner’s manual—usually near the flat tire).

• Crank the jack until the flat tire is about 6 inches off the ground.

5. Remove the Lug Nuts and the Flat Tire

• Now take the nuts all the way off and keep them somewhere safe (like inside the hubcap).

• Pull the flat tire straight toward you and set it aside.

6. Mount the Spare Tire

• Line up the holes with the lug bolts and push it on.

• Hand-tighten the lug nuts.

7. Lower the Car

• Use the jack to carefully lower the car until the spare just touches the ground.

• Now tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern (opposite sides) to make sure it’s even.

8. Fully Lower the Car & Finish Tightening

• Bring the car all the way down, remove the jack, and double-check that all lug nuts are tight.

9. Replace the Hubcap (If It Fits)

Some spares don’t allow room for it, and that’s fine.

And as always make sure before you hit the road you or a driving school, have informed yourself about how to safely and properly drive. If you feel concerned about your ability to drive and if it’s up to par, take driving lessons or a driver’s education course!