How to Change a Tyre with Professional Tips

Do you know what to do when you get a flat tyre? If you’re like most drivers, the thought of changing a tyre might seem a bit overwhelming. But once you’ve got the right tools, a bit of knowledge, and some simple safety steps, it’s easier than it sounds. Good vehicle safety starts with being prepared and knowing how to change a tyre properly is a big part of that. Here’s a simple step-by-step to get you sorted.

What You Need to Change a Tyre

Before you get started, it’s important to have all the right gear ready to go. Here’s what you’ll need:

• A jack (a good hydraulic one, like a Milwaukee jack, will make the job easier)
• A tyre iron or a decent wheel brace
• A spare tyre that’s fully inflated (good brands like Bridgestone make a difference) . However, not all cars have a standard spare tyre; some might have a temporary space saver tyre, which limits the distance and speed you can drive.
• Your car manual (it’s honestly worth a quick look)
• A pair of gloves if you have them (your hands will thank you)
• Wheel wedges or some bricks (to stop the car from rolling away)

If you’re not sure your spare is up to the task, it’s worth giving it a once-over next time you’re at the service station. Nothing worse than being stuck with two flat tyres. Need an aftermarket car tyre or a professional wheel alignment? Have a look at our services.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing a Tyre

Parking safely

The moment you realise your tyre’s gone flat, slow down gently and look for a safe, solid spot to pull over. Try to find a flat somewhere and away from busy traffic. Flick on your hazard lights straight away to let other drivers know you’re there. Once you’ve stopped, put the car in park (or into first gear if you’re driving a manual) and make sure the handbrake is pulled on nice and tight.

Loosening lug nuts

Before you lift the car, take your wheel brace and give the lug nuts a good loosen. Turn them anti-clockwise. You don’t need to take them right off yet, just crack them loose. If they’re stubborn, use a bit of your body weight to help shift them.

Lifting with a jack

Get your jack in place at the proper lifting point. Your manual will point it out clearly. It’s really important to jack from the right spot to avoid doing any damage to the frame. Crank the jack up until the flat tyre’s clear of the ground and ready to come off.

Replacing with the spare

Take the lug nuts all the way off and put them somewhere you won’t lose them. Then slide the flat tyre straight off the hub and lay it flat on the ground. Grab your spare and line it up with the wheel bolts. Push it on properly and start threading the lug nuts back on by hand to hold everything in place.

Re-tightening and lowering the vehicle

Bring the car down slowly until the new tyre is properly grounded. Then get your wheel brace and tighten the lug nuts properly. Work across the wheel in a cross pattern so it sits evenly. If you’re worried about getting the torque just right, or if the steering feels a bit off after, it’s smart to drop by for a quick wheel alignment check.

• Choose the right spot: Always look for firm, level ground where the jack can stay steady and won’t shift under the weight.
• Pay attention to the weather: If the road’s wet or slippery, take it slow and be extra cautious when working around the car.
• Use an emergency kit if you have one: A high-vis vest, a few cones, and a torch can make a big difference if you’re stuck by the side of the road at night.
• Keep an eye on the tyre pressure: Once the spare is fitted, check the tyre pressure as soon as you can. If you don’t have a pressure gauge, swing past the servo and use theirs.

What to Do After Installing the Spare Tyre

Drive to the nearest tyre repair shop

Once you’re rolling again, your first stop should be a tyre repair shop, like Mag Wheel & Tyre for example. Get the puncture sorted properly or organise a tyre replacement. We’re here if you need help with puncture repair or wheel balancing to make sure everything’s running right.

Avoid high speeds

While you’re running on a temporary spare, slow it down a bit. Most spares are only safe up to 80 km/h, so it’s best to keep things steady until you’ve got your full-size tyre back on. On the other hand, if you have a standard spare tyre, you can drive on it as per usual.

Book a tyre rotation or a wheel alignment

A wheel alignment service should be scheduled after completing the repair work. Taking additional care at present will result in better driving conditions in the future.

When You Shouldn’t Change a Tyre Yourself

• On a motorway or a road that’s busy with fast-moving traffic, it’s too risky to try and change a tyre yourself.
• If it’s dark or the weather is bad, and you can’t see properly, it’s safer to call for help.
• If your gear isn’t in good nick or you’re missing tools like a proper jack, don’t chance it, just call for backup.
• If you don’t feel confident or physically able to change it, it’s always a smart move to ring roadside assistance and let them sort it for you.

FAQ

Can I drive long distances on a spare tyre?

It depends on what sort of spare tyre you have. , The space savers are really only meant for short distances, around 80km or so, and at lower speeds. It’s important to get the damaged tyre replaced properly as soon as you can. However, if you have a full-size spare tyre you can simply replace the damaged tyre with your spare, and you’re good to go. As long as the full-size spare is in good condition, is not too old, and is properly inflated, there’s no limit on how long you can drive on the full-size spare.

How tight should lug nuts be when changing a tyre?

They should be firm enough that the wheel won’t move, but not so tight that you risk stripping the studs. Once the car is lowered, use your body weight to finish tightening the nuts properly with the wheel brace.

What happens if my spare tyre is flat too?

You must request help from roadside assistance. Regularly checking your spare tyre pressure during your routine tyre pressure checks is a smart practice.

Can I change a tyre on soft ground?

No, it’s not safe. The jack has the potential to sink into soft surfaces which may cause the car to slip. You should check for stable flat ground before attempting to change a tyre.

Should I get a wheel alignment after changing a tyre?

Yes, especially if you’ve driven on a flat for any distance. Driving with poor alignment can cause uneven tyre wear and mess with how your car handles.