How to change a tire safely, step by step: the tools you need, loosening the lug nuts, jacking the car, and tightening the new wheel properly.
Knowing how to change a tire saves time and money, for a seasonal change or a sudden flat. Here is how to do it safely, step by step.
1. Gather the tools
- A jack: hydraulic or scissor.
- A lug wrench, to loosen and tighten the lug nuts.
- The spare or new tire, in the right size for your car.
- Wheel wedges, to keep the car from rolling.
- Gloves.
2. Find a safe, level spot
Park on a flat surface away from traffic and turn on your hazard lights. Put the wheel wedges against the tires you are not changing.
3. Loosen the lug nuts
Turn each lug nut counterclockwise to loosen it slightly. Don't remove them yet: they come off easily once the car is raised.
4. Raise the car
Place the jack under the jacking point your owner's manual shows, and lift the car just until the tire is off the ground.
5. Remove the tire
Unscrew the lug nuts completely and take the tire off. Keep the nuts where they won't roll away.
6. Mount the new tire
Line the new tire up with the wheel studs and push it into place. Start the lug nuts by hand, so they go on straight.
7. Tighten the lug nuts
Lower the car until the tire just touches the ground, then tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern so the wheel seats evenly.
8. Lower the car and finish tightening
Lower the car completely and give each lug nut a final tightening.
Final tips
- Check the new tire's pressure.
- Check again that the lug nuts are evenly tight, so the wheel doesn't wobble.
- A spare is often meant for short distances only: have the flat repaired or replaced soon.
For a flat you'd rather not change yourself, we repair tires and do balancing and alignment at 300 McGuinness Boulevard in Greenpoint, and our tow truck can bring the car in. Call (718) 349-9742, Monday to Saturday from 8 AM to 6 PM.
