Changing your tire may not be one of your favorite parts of car ownership, but it is certainly one of the most important. Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, your tires should be rotated. Every winter, you should put snow tires on your vehicle because all-season tires don't cut it when it snows in Louisville. Additionally, tires sometimes go flat and need to be replaced. If you have never changed a tire before, keep reading this comprehensive guide to learn everything you need to know.
A Guide to Changing Your Tire
A tire can be changed in just 15 to 30 minutes if you have all the necessary equipment on hand. Assuming that your vehicle is in a safe location, like your driveway, the first thing you need to do is pry off your wheel cover. First, you need to attach your wrench onto a lug nut and loosen it by turning the wrench counterclockwise. Then, loosen the remaining lug nuts. Each should be loose enough that you can turn it by hand.
Next, place the jack perpendicular to the ground under the metal part of your vehicle's frame. Once it's in place, you should lift your vehicle until the tire is off the ground. Once your car is lifted, you should remove the lug nuts completely, put them somewhere you will not lose them, and pull the tire off directly toward your torso using your lats. Then, put your spare tire on the wheelbase by lining up the lug nut posts and the holes in the tire.
What to Do with the Lug Nuts
Once your new tire is on the car, put the lug nuts on and start to tighten them. Lower your vehicle until your tire starts to touch the ground. Then, tighten every other nut, like so:
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Eventually, your lug nuts will feel equally tight, and your tire will feel secure. You will then need to lower your vehicle to the ground completely and tighten the lug nuts incrementally until your tire is properly secured.
Should I Have a Mechanic Change My Tires?
Yes: a professional can change your tire in just 5 to 15 minutes, and you don't need to worry about the lug nuts not being tightened enough. Additionally, a certified mechanic can check the alignment of your vehicle, perform a diagnostic test on your vehicle, and rotate your tires for you.
If you don't have the time, experience, or desire to change your own tires, make an appointment with us today at Tony's Brake & Alignment!