If you’re not sure how to change a tire, don’t worry! You may have heard that changing a tire is complicated, but the truth is it’s very manageable with a calm approach and the right tools and know-how.
And knowing how to change a tire by yourself can save you time, money, and stress when the unexpected happens. In this guide, our tire experts walk you through:
Tire changing tools needed
The six essential steps to change a flat tire safely
Common mistakes to avoid that can cause safety issues
Related: Check out our national tire inventory to find the right tire for your vehicle!
What Tools Do I Need to Change a Tire?
Before changing a tire, make sure you have the right equipment and tools. Many drivers keep these items in their vehicles at all times in case they get a flat tire:
A car jack designed for your vehicle
A lug wrench or tire iron
Wheel chocks or heavy objects to block the wheels
A flashlight for when visibility is limited
Gloves to improve grip and keep your hands clean.
While not technically a tool, you also need to make sure that you have a usable spare tire to change a tire by yourself. Surprisingly, a lot of drivers discover that their spare tire is underinflated or completely missing at the worst possible time: when they desperately need to change a tire! Consider keeping a donut spare tire in your car so you have a temporary solution in case of a flat.
6 Steps to Change a Flat Tire
1. Get Situated to Change a Tire by Yourself
One of the most important things to understand when learning how to change a tire by yourself is that safety comes first. Knowing how to spot the warning signs of when to replace a tire gives you time to fix it proactively at home or in a tire shop. Of course, if you experience a tire blowout while on the road, you’ll have to find a safe spot to stop.
A safe spot means level ground away from traffic (e.g., visible road shoulder, nearby parking lot). If the road is narrow, traffic is moving fast, weather conditions are harsh, or you just don’t feel safe, prioritize yourself and call roadside assistance. Otherwise, proceed with the tire change.
Regardless of what you decide to do, be sure to turn on your hazard lights so other drivers can detect your presence. Then, set the parking brake (also known as an “E brake”) and place wheel chocks behind the tires. This helps to stabilize the vehicle.
2. Loosen Lug Nuts Carefully
Before lifting the vehicle, start to loosen the lug nuts slightly to prep for the tire change. You can do this by:
Turning the lug wrench to the left
Using steady pressure rather than quick force
Loosening each lug nut about a quarter turn
Remember: You’re only loosening the lug nuts, not removing them quite yet! If the lug nuts won’t move, try using your foot to apply controlled pressure on the wrench. This improves leverage without damaging the system.
3. Raise the Car with the Jack
Place the jack at the correct lift point specified in your car manual. This depends on several factors, such as car model and frame design.
Slowly raise the vehicle at the manufacturer-recommended jack point until the tire clears the ground. When the vehicle has been raised, make sure there is enough working space to safely remove the wheel.
Remember: Never place any part of your body under the vehicle while it is supported only by a jack. Safety is your main priority!
4. Remove the Flat Tire
Now it’s time to finish loosening the lug nuts and remove them carefully. We recommend placing the lug nuts together in a visible spot so they do not roll away. Then pull the tire straight toward you and lay it flat under the vehicle near the bumper. This simple step can prevent accidents if the jack fails.
After changing your tire, you’ll need to take the flat with you and dispose of it responsibly. Don’t leave it on the side of the road or under your vehicle!
5. Attach the Spare Tire
To mount a new tire or spare tire:
Line up the tire with the lug bolts
Push the tire into place
Thread the lug nuts on by hand, turning to the right
Lightly tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern
The star pattern is the correct way to tighten lug nuts so the wheel sits evenly on the hub. This means that instead of tightening them in a circle pattern, you tighten one lug nut, then move to the one directly across from it. Then you continue in a crisscross sequence until all are lightly tightened. The keyword here is “lightly” because this allows the wheel to settle evenly once the car is lowered.
6. Lower the Vehicle and Tighten the Lug Nuts
At this point, you’re almost done changing a tire by yourself! Lower the car slowly until the tire touches the ground. Then fully lower it and remove the jack. Now you can tighten the lug nuts by turning them to the right and using the same star pattern from Step 5. Apply firm pressure to make sure they are secure, and replace the wheel cover if your vehicle has one.
Technically, you have successfully changed a tire at this point. But there are a few more steps you should take after you’re back on your way. Now is a good time to reflect on your driving habits and examine if you’re doing anything that may be wearing down your tires prematurely.
Also, if you used a donut spare tire, be sure to replace it as soon as possible with a tire that is designed for long-term use. And that’s it!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Changing Your Tire
How you change a tire depends on several factors, like your car model and weather conditions. Mistakes often happen when drivers rush to change a tire. Here are some common mistakes that you should try to avoid:
Incorrectly placing the jack and damaging the vehicle frame
Loosening lug nuts while the car is raised
Not tightening lug nuts enough after lowering the vehicle
Skipping the step of placing the spare tire under the elevated bumper
Missing any of the safety steps
These mistakes can create serious problems, so we recommend taking a few extra minutes to prevent accidents and protect your vehicle.
Make the Right Call When Changing a Flat Tire
Understanding how to change a tire on the go makes you ready for the road! Still, not every situation is ideal for a DIY fix. If you’d rather compare options or leave it to a professional, our tire experts at Hooper’s Tire Outlet are happy to help! Visit us in the Greater Rochester area or shop our national eBay store for tires and services you can trust.