How to Change a Tire in 10 Easy Steps | Discount Tire

Learning how to change a tire is a breeze thanks to our guide that uses clear and simple steps to show just how easy changing a tire can be.

Step 1 - Park in a Safe Location (0:11)
Step 2 - Stabilize your Vehicle (0:33)
Step 3 - Remove Hubcap (1:11)
Step 4 - Loosen Lug Nuts (1:28)
Step 5 - Lift the Vehicle (1:49)
Step 6 - Remove Lug Nuts (2:24)
Step 7 - Remove Wheel and Tire (2:29)
Step 8 - Attach Spare Tire and Wheel (2:47)
Step 9 - Lower Vehicle (3:03)
Step 10 - Know the Limits of Your Spare Tire (3:38)

For more information on changing a tire visit our website - discounttire.com/learn/change-a-tire

***Before attempting to change a tire, always consult your vehicle owner's manual for proper manufacturer recommended procedures.***

Step 1 - Park in a Safe Location (0:11)
Make sure your vehicle is parked in a safe location. A low traffic parking lot or large paved pull out well off any busy street or road is ideal. Once in a safe location, turn on your hazard lights and turn off your vehicle. **Warning - Changing a tire on the side of the road or highway is dangerous and should be avoided if possible. If you must change a tire, please ensure that you take all safety precautions possible. **Helpful Tip - Avoid parking over uneven surfaces like dirt or grass. This can cause your jack to sink or slip.

Step 2 - Stabilize your Vehicle (0:33)
Set the emergency brake first. If you have a manual transmission, put your car in first gear. If your vehicle is an automatic, just put it in “park”. Next, place wheel chocks or big rocks behind and in front of the tire opposite the one being changed. This will prevent vehicle movement and the jack from slipping while we work. Next, find your lug wrench, jack and spare tire. These tools are often located in the trunk, under the carpeting. Your vehicle’s manual will indicate exactly where they are.

Step 3 - Remove Hubcap (1:11)
This only applies if your vehicle has a hubcap. Many hubcaps just snap into place but some are held on by the lug nuts. You can usually pry them off using something flat like a screwdriver. If your vehicle has covers over the lug nuts be sure to remove them as well.

Step 4 - Loosen Lug Nuts (1:28)
Loosen the first lug nut by rotating the wrench counter-clockwise just once without removing the lug nut entirely. Then loosen the second nut directly opposite of the first one, and then the one opposite that like a star shaped pattern. If the lug nuts are tight, use your body weight to push down.

Step 5 - Lift the Vehicle (1:49)
Look in your owner’s manual for where to position the jack. It’s often under the frame near the tire with the flat but not always the case. Our jack should be aligned with the thin seam that runs under the vehicle. The factory jack has a notch cut out of it for a specific fit. Next insert the handle and turn it clockwise to raise the car. Lower the jack if at any point your car seems unstable and never ever get under a car that is only supported by a jack.

Step 6 - Remove Lug Nuts (2:24)
Fully remove the lug nuts and place them in a secure location.

Step 7 - Remove Wheel and Tire (2:29)
Grasp the tire with two hands and pull it straight out. Then place it under the car. This is a precautionary measure just in case the jack slips. Remove any aftermarket accessories like hub rings at this point.

Step 8 - Attach Spare Tire and Wheel (2:47)
The valve stem on the spare tire should be facing out. Then align it with the wheel studs and push it into the assembly. Tighten one lug nut by hand. Follow the same star pattern used to remove the lug nuts.

Step 9 - Lower Vehicle (3:03)
Remove the flat tire from underneath the vehicle, turn the jack handle counterclockwise and lower the vehicle. Once the vehicle is firmly grounded, fully tighten the lug nuts using your wrench, again in the star shaped pattern. Remember to gather your tools back in place, remove the wheel chucks, and place your flat tire in the trunk. Lug nuts and lug bolts should be torqued to factory specs. If you don’t have a torque wrench it’s a good idea to purchase one and place it in your vehicle with your tire changing tools.

Step 10 - Know the Limits of Your Spare Tire (3:38)
Remember that spare tires are smaller and less capable than regular tires. They should only be used for limited, short distance driving.

If you need more expert help, you can schedule an appointment for a tire inspection, flat repair or rotation online at our website - discounttire.com/schedule-appointment
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