how to change a car tyre step by step

[DeReid]

Changing a flat tire is a straightforward process if you follow the correct safety steps. The core procedure involves securing the vehicle, loosening the lug nuts, lifting the car with a jack, removing the flat tire, mounting the spare, and tightening the nuts in a star pattern. Always prioritize safety by parking on a flat, stable surface away from traffic and engaging your parking brake.

Essential Tools & Safety Prep Before you start, gather your car's jack, lug wrench, and spare tire (donut or full-size). Check that your spare is properly inflated. Park on level, solid ground—avoid slopes or soft gravel. Turn on your hazard lights and place wheel chocks (or large rocks) against the tires opposite the flat to prevent rolling.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Loosen Lug Nuts: Use the wrench to break the lug nuts loose by turning counterclockwise. Do not remove them completely yet; just loosen them a quarter to a half turn. This is easier while the car's weight is on the ground.
2. Position the Jack: Consult your owner's manual for the correct jack points—these are reinforced metal points on the car's frame, not the plastic bodywork or the axle. Incorrect placement can damage your vehicle.
3. Lift the Vehicle: Pump the jack handle until the flat tire is about 6 inches off the ground.
4. Remove Lug Nuts and Tire: Now, fully unscrew and remove the lug nuts. Place them in a secure spot like a hubcap. Pull the flat tire straight toward you and set it aside.
5. Mount the Spare: Lift the spare onto the wheel studs. Align the holes with the studs and push it on.
6. Hand-Tighten Lug Nuts: Screw the lug nuts back on by hand until they are snug.
7. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the car halfway with the jack so the spare just touches the ground. Then, use the wrench to tighten the nuts in a crisscross or star pattern to ensure the wheel is seated evenly.
8. Fully Lower and Final Tighten: Lower the car completely, remove the jack, and do a final tightening pass with the wrench on all nuts.

Post-Change Checklist A donut spare is a temporary fix. They are typically rated for about 50 miles and speeds under 50 mph. Drive directly to a tire shop to have your original tire repaired or replaced.

Action	Key Consideration	Typical Specification / Note
Parking Location	Stability & Visibility	Flat, solid pavement (e.g., asphalt, concrete)
Spare Tire Type	Speed & Distance Limits	Donut Spare: Max 50 mph, 50 miles
Lug Nut Torque	Prevents over/under tightening	80-100 ft-lbs (Refer to owner's manual)
Jack Point Location	Avoids vehicle damage	Found on vehicle's frame rail, behind front wheel or ahead of rear wheel
Tightening Sequence	Ensures even pressure	Use a star pattern, not clockwise

[StJuliana]

Got a flat? Don't panic. First, get safely off the road. Turn on those hazards. Find your jack, wrench, and spare—they're usually in the trunk. Crank the lug nuts loose before you lift the car. When you put the spare on, tighten the nuts in a star pattern, not just around in a circle. That little donut spare isn't for the long haul; get to a shop pronto. The main thing is to stay calm and be visible to other drivers.

[DanielRose]

I remember my first flat—heart was pounding. The biggest lesson was checking the spare's air pressure before I needed it. Mine was almost flat too! Another tip: use your foot to press down on the wrench if a lug nut is really stuck. Just be careful. When you lower the car, don't drop it all the way. Let the tire just touch the ground and tighten the nuts as much as you can first. It makes the final tightening so much easier and safer.