How to Change a Tire on a Car Correctly

Unexpected problems like a flat tire can happen anytime. You might be driving and suddenly hit a patch, or you may wake up in the morning ready for a trip only to find your car tire low on air. In such situations, you might not have the time to visit a garage. That’s why every driver should know how to change a tire correctly. Although it isn’t a difficult task, doing it the wrong way can lead to further damage or even accidents. Today, MotorGuide explains step by step how to safely change a car tire.

Bring the Vehicle to a Flat Surface

Always park on a flat, solid surface before removing the wheels. Avoid hills, gravel, or soft soil as the jack can sink and make the process unsafe. Once parked:

• Pull the handbrake.
• If it’s a manual vehicle, put it in gear.
• Place stoppers on the opposite wheels for extra safety.

Don’t Damage the Studs

Many people end up damaging studs when removing tires because they are machine-tightened without balance. Always loosen them carefully. Remember:

• Loosen slightly before lifting the car.
• Turn in the correct direction (usually anticlockwise to loosen).
• Never force the studs, as repairs can be costly.

Tighten the Studs in the Right Direction

When reinstalling, tighten the studs properly and in the correct order to ensure the wheel is balanced:

• 4 studs: Tighten the two opposite studs first, then the rest.
• 5 studs: Use a star or triangular pattern.
• 6 studs: Tighten in a crisscross pattern.

The Correct Order to Change a Tire

1. Get the rim spanner and jack ready. Pull the handbrake and place wheel stoppers.
2. Loosen the tire studs slightly with the spanner.
3. Lift the vehicle using the jack at the correct jacking point.
4. Completely remove the loosened studs and take off the flat tire.
5. Place the spare tire and tighten the studs in the right order.
6. Slowly lower the vehicle with the jack.
7. Once lowered, finish tightening the studs firmly.

Important Safety Tips

• Never attempt to change a tire on a slope or uneven surface.
• Always double-check that the studs are secure before driving.
• If you are inexperienced, practice under supervision or have a mechanic demonstrate once.

Changing a tire may seem simple, but even a small mistake can put your safety at risk. By following these steps from MotorGuide, you can confidently handle emergencies and keep your journeys safe.