How to change a tyre?

Getting stuck on the road due to a flat tyre is not an uncommon experience. Changing a tyre is one of the most basic life skills every driver should know. Whether on a busy highway or a remote road, knowing how to replace it yourself can save you time, money and a potentially dangerous situation. In this article, you will learn how to change tyres by yourself instead of relying on roadside assistance or other drivers.

See also: How to change brake pads?

 

Step-by-step guide to help you change a tyre

Search for a safe spot

The foremost thing you should do whenever you encounter a flat tyre is to find a safe location. Slow down and look for a safe and level spot away from traffic to park your car. Set the hazard lights on and apply your parking brake to alert other drivers and prevent your car from rolling.

 

Tools you will need

The below-mentioned tools should always be in your trunk or under the rear seat of your car.

• Jack: A jack is a device that helps to lift the car so that you can remove the flat tyre.
• Lug wrench: The lug nuts used to secure the wheel can be loosened and tightened using this tool.
• Spare tyre: Make sure you have a properly inflated spare tyre that is suitable for your vehicle.
• Wheel wedge: These wedges are blocks that are placed under the opposite wheel of the car to prevent your car from rolling.
• Flashlight
• Gloves: To keep your hands clean and free of grease and dirt.

 

Loosen the lug nuts

Now, loosen the lug nuts that secure the wheel. If your wheel has a hubcap or a wheel cover, you may need to remove it first with a screwdriver. Then, fit the lug wrench over one of the lug nuts and turn it counterclockwise. Just sufficiently loosen them; do not fully remove them so that you can unscrew them easily by hand when your car is lifted.

 

Set the jack and lift the vehicle

As you have loosened the nuts, you are now needed to position the jack of the tyre. To do this, find the right spot to place the jack under your car. You can check your owner’s manual for the jack points.

• Place the jack under the vehicle frame next to the flat tyre and ensure it is aligned correctly. Double-check that the jack is stable.
• Using the tyre iron, which is a long metal bar, lift the vehicle off the ground until the flat tyre is approximately six inches off the ground.

 

Remove the tyre

Now that your car is lifted, remove the loosened lug nuts. You can use your hands or the lug wrench to unscrew them. Place them aside, as you will need them later. Remove the flat tyre gently by pulling it towards you with both hands.

 

Fix the spare tyre

Now, take the spare tyre and line it up with the wheel bolts. Push the tyre onto the bolts and make sure it is securely fastened to the wheel hub. Next, turn the lug nuts clockwise with your hands to tighten them. Use the star method for tightening the nuts, i.e. rather than tightening the nut adjacent to your current one, move to the nut opposite to it. This method helps the tyre to be evenly mounted.

 

Lower the vehicle

Lower the vehicle with the jack until it touches the ground. With the lug wrench, tighten the lug nuts clockwise after removing the jack. Make sure that the nuts are secure.

 

Check the tyre pressure

After changing the tyre, use a tyre pressure gauge to check the tyre pressure of the new tyre. Add more air if needed with the inflator. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the recommended PSI (Pounds per Square Inch). Make sure that the tyres are inflated properly to ensure safe driving.

Now, your car is ready to be driven. Reach out to the nearest mechanic or tyre shop and get your tyres checked as soon as you can. You should not drive too fast or too far on your spare tyre, as it is meant for temporary use. Get your flat tyre repaired as soon as possible.

 

FAQs

Is it necessary to change a flat tyre?

Driving with a flat tyre can affect vehicle control and increase the risk of an accident. It can cause further damage to the tyre and other components of your vehicle,

How do I know if I have a flat tyre?

Common signs of a flat tyre are a loud thud or bang, a hissing noise, a sudden loss of control over the vehicle, a drop in tyre pressure, a visible damage to the tyre.

Can I change a tyre by myself?

Yes, you can repair minor punctures yourself, but these are only temporary fixes that should be taken to a professional as soon as possible for inspection and proper repair.

Is it simple to change a tyre?

If you have the right tools and knowledge, changing a tyre can be a simple task. But, if you are unsure or inexperienced, seek professional help.

How much distance can I travel with a flat tyre?

Driving on a flat tyre should be avoided as much as possible. But with no other option, you can drive up to 80 kilometre at a maximum speed of 80 km/h.

How high should the vehicle be lifted?

Lift the vehicle until the flat tyre is elevated above the ground and make sure the vehicle is stable.

What is the purpose of using wheel wedges?

Wheel wedges are placed on the opposite side of the vehicle. This prevents it from rolling while you are fixing the tyre.

How long does it take to change a tyre?

You can change a tyre in about 15 to 30 minutes. But if you are unfamiliar with the process, it may take longer.

How fast can I drive on a spare tyre?

Driving on a spare tyre should be done as slowly and cautiously as possible. Check your owner's manual for specific instructions.

How can I avoid a flat tyre?

Regularly inspect your tyres for signs of wear. Maintain proper air pressure.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com