Planning to get your driver’s license?

That’s great! But while you’re learning to drive a car, it’s important that you also learn how to take care of it.

One of the most common problems that every car owner faces at some point is a flat tire.

The good news is that every car comes with a spare tire so the driver isn’t left stranded in the middle of the road. But if you don’t know to change a tire, you’re going to be on the road for a while.

Here’s a beginner’s guide to changing tires:

READ: The 5 Most Common Reasons for a Flat Tire

What will you need?

You’ll need the following items to change a flat tire:

  • Spare tire
  • Jack
  • Wrench

All of these items should come with your car. It’s also a great idea to have a pair of gloves and a flashlight with working batteries in the glove box or trunk of your car to make the tire changing process more convenient.

The process:

Step 1: Apply the parking brakes

Always use parking breaks when changing a tire. This will prevent the vehicle from rolling. As an extra safety measure, you can block the tires with bricks or rocks, if nearby.

Step 2: Remove the hubcap

Start off by removing the hubcap. If your car’s tire has a wheel cover installed, you need to remove that first to get access to the hubcap.

Step 3: Loosen the lug nuts

Once you remove the hubcap, use the wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheel by turning them in a counterclockwise direction. Remember, you only want to break their resistance, with about ½ a turn. Avoid removing them completely.

Step 4: Lift your car using a jack

Place the jack beneath your car frame alongside the tire that’s flat. Modern cars have exposed metal areas specifically for a jack. Once you properly position the jack, raise the car off the ground until the tire is lifted a few inches.

Step 5: Unscrew the leg nuts

If you properly loosened the leg nuts (step 3), you can simply unscrew them using your hands. If not, use a wrench to take them off. Make sure you keep them safe.

Step 6: Change the tire

This process is fairly straightforward. Remove the flat tire by gripping it from its treads. Replace it with a spare tire. Then, line up the rim with the lug bolts and push it gently in until it sets properly.

Step 7: Tighten the lug nuts and lower the car

Put the lug nuts back and tighten them by hand. Lower the vehicle but don’t remove the jack. Use a wrench to tighten them again. Make sure they’re as tight as possible by applying as much force as you can.

Step 8: Pack up!

Congratulations! You’ve successfully replaced your flat tire. Put the hubcap and wheel cover back on your tire and pack all your equipment in the car.

Champions Driving School offers online driving classes in Pinehurst and Houston. Based in Texas, we’re one of the most reputable driving schools in the state providing affordable services from the past two decades. Call us at (832)934-3077 to learn more.

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