How to Change a Car Tyre: A Beginners Guide

Flat tyres can happen unexpectedly, but with the right knowledge and tools, you can get back on the road in no time. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of changing a tyre safely and efficiently, regardless of your car’s make or model.

Tools and Materials Needed:

Spare tyre (with sufficient air pressure)
Jack
Lug wrench
Vehicle’s tyre changing kit (if available)
Wheel chocks or bricks
Flashlight (optional, but recommended for nighttime emergencies)

Step 1: Find a Safe Location
As soon as you notice a flat tyre, safely pull over to the side of the road or a parking lot. Make sure you’re on a flat surface, away from traffic, and engage your hazard lights.

Step 2: Prepare Your Vehicle
Engage the parking brake to prevent the car from rolling while you work on it. If you have a manual transmission, put it in first gear or reverse. If you have an automatic transmission, put it in park.

Step 3: Locate the Spare Tyre, Jack, and Lug Wrench
Most vehicles have a spare tyre, jack and lug wrench stored in the trunk or under the cargo area. Consult your owner’s manual if you’re unsure of their location.

Step 4: Secure the Vehicle
Place wheel chocks or bricks in front of and behind the tyre diagonally opposite to the flat tyre. This adds an extra layer of safety to prevent the car from rolling.

Step 5: Loosen the Lug Nuts
Using the lug wrench, carefully loosen the lug nuts on the flat tyre. Turn them counterclockwise, but do not remove them completely.

Step 6: Position the Jack
Consult your owner’s manual for guidance on the correct jack points for your specific vehicle. Typically, they are marked on the undercarriage. Position the jack securely under the frame of the car, ensuring it is on stable ground.

Step 7: Lift the Vehicle
Slowly pump the jack handle until the flat tyre is off the ground. Raise it high enough to allow for the spare tyre to be easily installed.

Step 8: Remove the Flat Tyre
Using the lug wrench, fully remove the loosened lug nuts from the flat tyre. Take off the tyre and set it aside.

Step 9: Install the Spare Tyre
Lift the spare tyre onto the wheel hub, aligning the holes in the rim with the wheel bolts. Push the tyre onto the hub until it’s snug.

Step 10: Hand-Tighten the Lug Nuts
Screw the lug nuts onto the wheel bolts by hand in a clockwise direction until they’re snug. Do not fully tighten them at this point.

Step 11: Lower the Vehicle
Carefully lower the vehicle using the jack. Ensure it’s on stable ground and remove the jack.

Step 12: Tighten the Lug Nuts
Using the lug wrench, tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern. This ensures even pressure on the wheel. Once they’re snug, lower the vehicle completely and finish tightening the lug nuts.

Step 13: Double-Check Lug Nut Tightness
After the car is on the ground, go around to each lug nut and double-check that they’re all properly tightened.

Step 14: Stow the Flat Tyre, Jack, and Tools
Place the flat tyre, jack and lug wrench back in the storage location in your vehicle. Ensure they are secured properly.

You’ve successfully changed your car’s tyre! Remember to have the flat tyre repaired or replaced as soon as possible. This skill is invaluable for any car owner and will help you stay safe and mobile in unexpected situations. Safe travels!

If you are having problems with your tyres you can get your vehicle checked and any issue diagnosed and resolved by booking online today. Or if you simply need a car service, MOT or repair we can help.

For further information on our services you can browse the site or get in touch with us by calling 019253 30468 or you can email us directly at service@lowtonmotorcompany.co.uk. At Lowton Motor Company we service all vehicles produced by all the top manufacturers from the a Ford to a Porsche and everything in between. Our experienced technicians have access to and traning with all the latest technology. You can be sure your vehicle is in safe hands whether it’s in for a repair, a service or just the annual MOT.