Are you driving around in circles because of a flat tire?
Changing tires is easy. Although it may seem daunting at first, anyone can do it without the help of a mechanic or a dealer.
That said, each vehicle is different, which is why we have put together a quick guide to changing tires on popular American cars. So, whether you own an Audi, a Ford, or any other car on the road today, you can perform your own tire check.
Gathering the Right Equipment
A flat tire is inconvenient, and it is important to be able to safely and efficiently change it. Start with the spare tire, jack, tire iron, and wheel chocks. Your spare tire should be in good condition with no cuts or bulges.
Jacks come in all shapes and sizes, and you should make sure to select the right jack for your car or truck. There are two types of tire irons, one for the lug bolts and one for the wheel lugs. Wheel chocks are an important safety measure that can prevent the car from rolling during a tire change.
Deflating and Removing the Old Tire
Then take off the wheel cover and break the wheel nuts loose with a wrench or ratchet set. With the wheel nuts loosened, place a jack at the designated location indicated in the vehicle owner’s manual, and raise the car to the desired height.
Once removed, ensure the area is clean, fit the new tire and deflate it so it fits snugly. Secure the new tire with the wheel nuts, before lowering the car and tightening the wheel nuts to the recommended torque.
Installing the New Tire
It can be intimidating, but with the right tools and knowledge, it is a relatively straightforward process. To prepare, gather the necessary tools like a tire iron, jack, and new tire. Be sure to learn more on replacing tires to begin releasing the lug nuts, and raising the vehicle with the jack. Once elevated, remove the necessary lug nuts and take off the old tire. Place the new tire on the bolt and replace the lug nuts. Tighten the lug nuts and lower the vehicle.
Inflating the Tire to the Proper Pressure
Once you have the recommended pressure, you’re ready to inflate your tire. Use a tire pressure gauge to check the pressure and adjust as necessary. Use a tire inflator to fill the tires to the recommended pressure.
If the pressure is not correct, repeat the step until you get the right pressure. Finally, replace the valve stem cap to help keep out dirt and moisture.
Ensuring Proper Care of the New Tire
First and foremost, ensure that the lug nuts are loosened before lifting the vehicle, making removing the wheel easier. Use a jack to raise the car to a stable platform before removing the old tire.
Torque the lug nuts to the correct specification and lower the vehicle to the ground. Taking the time to properly tighten the wheel will preserve the performance and safety of the vehicle.
Learn More About Changing Tires
Changing tires is not as difficult as it may seem, and anyone with the right technique, some patience, and the basic tools required can do it.
To learn more about changing tires, be sure to check out the quick guide for an easy-to-follow summary. With help from this guide, you’ll be back on the road in no time.
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