The Safe Way to Change a Tire (Avoid Mistakes!)

Tools You’ll Need

Before you start, make sure you have the following items in your car:

• A spare tire (make sure it’s properly inflated)
• A jack
• A lug wrench
• A wheel wedge or chock
• A flashlight (if it’s dark)
• A tire pressure gauge (optional)

1. Prepare Your Vehicle

Before you even touch the tire, it’s crucial to ensure your safety. Here’s what you should do:

• Park in a Safe Location: Find a flat, stable surface away from traffic. If you’re on the road, turn on your hazard lights.
• Apply the Parking Brake: This will prevent your car from rolling while you’re working on it.
• Place Wheel Wedges: If you’re changing a tire on the front of the car, place the wheel wedges behind the rear tires to ensure stability.

2. Loosen the Lug Nuts

Use the Lug Wrench: Take the lug wrench and turn the lug nuts counterclockwise to loosen them. You don’t need to remove them entirely—just break the initial resistance. If they’re too tight, use your body weight for extra pressure.

Remember to Loosen in a Star Pattern: Loosen the lug nuts in a star or crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure on the tire.

3. Lift the Car with the Jack

Position the Jack: Find the correct jacking point on your vehicle—refer to your owner’s manual. Usually near the front or rear tires.

Raise the Car: Use the jack to lift the vehicle until the tire is a few inches off the ground.

4. Remove the Flat Tire

Take Off the Lug Nuts: Remove them completely and keep them in a safe place.

Remove the Flat Tire: Gently pull the tire off the wheel hub and set it aside.

5. Install the Spare Tire

Align the Spare Tire: Line it up with the wheel bolts and push it into place.

Tighten the Lug Nuts: Start by hand, then tighten with the wrench in a star pattern.

6. Lower the Car and Tighten the Lug Nuts

Lower the Car: Slowly lower the car using the jack and remove it.

Fully Tighten the Lug Nuts: Once on the ground, tighten them firmly using the star pattern.

7. Check the Tire Pressure

After installing the spare, check its air pressure. If you don’t have a gauge, stop by Calderon’s Tires for a quick check.

8. Pack Up and Drive Safely

Put your tools and the flat tire back in your vehicle. You can now safely drive to a tire shop like Calderon’s Tires in San Jose to get your flat repaired or replaced.

Why It’s Important to Learn How to Change a Tire

Knowing how to change a tire is an essential skill for every driver. It provides peace of mind and can save you time and money in emergencies. At Calderon’s Tires, we’re ready to help with maintenance, repairs, and tire replacements. If you’re in San Jose, stop by and let us take care of your vehicle.

Need Help? Contact Calderon’s Tires

If you need a tire repair, replacement, or inspection, visit Calderon’s Tires in San Jose. Our expert team is always ready to assist you!

Visit Calderon’s Tires Today:

454 S Bascom Ave, San Jose, CA
(408) 297-3600

1620 Story Rd, San Jose, CA
(408) 259-2245

We hope this guide helps you feel more confident when changing your tire! Drive safe — we’re always here when you need us!