How to replace a tyre

Knowing how to replace a tyre is an essential skill for any driver. Whether you're on a long trip or simply commuting to work, the last thing you want is to get stuck on the side of the road with a flat tyre and with no roadside assistance available. Fortunately, replacing a tyre is a relatively simple task that anyone can learn. So, if you want to learn the ins and outs of replacing your car tyres, read on!

Tools and Equipment You'll Need to Replace a Tyre

Before we get started, let's take a look at the tools and equipment you'll need to replace a tyre.

A spare tyre

It's essential to ensure you have a spare tyre in good condition before hitting the road. Check that the tyre is inflated correctly, has adequate tread depth, and is free of any visible damage or cracks. Ensure that the spare tyres are suitable for your vehicle's make and model, and if you need clarification, check the owner's manual.

A jack

A jack is used to lift the car off the ground so that you can replace the flat tyre with the spare. Most cars come with a jack, usually located in the trunk with the spare tyre. If you're using a new jack, read the instructions that come with it before use.

A lug wrench

A lug wrench is a specific tool used to loosen and tighten your tyre's lug nuts which hold the tyre in place. Lug wrenches typically come in two sizes, one for the smaller lug nuts on the wheel and one for the larger ones that hold the wheel to the axle. Ensure you have the correct size for your vehicle before you start the tyre replacement process.

Wheel chocks

Wheel chocks are blocks you place behind the car's wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling while it's lifted off the ground. This is an important safety measure that should not be skipped. If you don't have proper wheel chocks, you can use bricks, stones, or other objects to serve as wheel chocks.

Flashlight

A flashlight will come in handy if you're changing your tyres at night or in low-light conditions. Ensure the flashlight has fresh batteries and is bright enough to illuminate the area around the tyre.

Gloves

It's an excellent idea to wear gloves while changing a tyre to protect your hands from dirt and debris on the tyre or in the wheel well.

Step-By-Step Guide On How To Replace A Tyre

You need to get back on the road as fast as possible. While replacing a tyre takes time, here's how to get done with the process in no time.

Find a safe location

The first step when replacing a tyre is to find a safe location. If you suffer a flat tyre while driving, pull over to a safe place away from traffic. Ensuring the area is level and stable, and you're not on a slope is essential. Once you've found a safe place, turn on the hazard lights and engage the parking brake.

Prepare the car

Now that you're in a safe location, it's time to prepare the car for the tyre replacement process. Place the wheel chocks behind the wheels opposite the flat tyre. If you're changing a rear tyre, place the chocks in front of the wheels; if you're changing a front tyre, place the chocks behind the rear wheels. This prevents the car from rolling while it's lifted off the ground.

Loosen the lug nuts

Loosen the tyre's lug nuts using the lug wrench on the flat tyre by turning them counterclockwise. You may need some force to get them loose, as they can be pretty tight. Be careful not to loosen them too much at this stage, as you'll want to keep the tyre in place until you lift the car off the ground.

Lift the car

Place the jack in the designated lifting point under the car (refer to your owner's manual for this information). Slowly raise the vehicle until the flat tyre is off the ground. It's essential to ensure the car is stable and not wobbling before proceeding.

Remove the lug nuts and flat tyre

Remove the lug nuts and place them where they won't get lost. Remove the flat tyre carefully from the car and set it aside.

Install the spare tyre

Align the spare tyre with the bolts on the wheel hub. Ensure it's seated adequately before screwing the lug nuts back on by hand. Tighten them with the lug wrench.

Double-check the tightness of the lug nuts

Double-check the tightness of every wheel nut using the lug wrench. It's essential to ensure they're all tightened to the recommended torque specifications (refer to your owner's manual for this information).

Store tools and spare tyre

After you've replaced the tyre, put away the tools and the flat tyre in your trunk. It's essential to keep them there until you get to a repair shop, where you can repair or replace the flat tyre.

What to Do After Replacing a Tyre

After successfully replacing your tyre, there are a few critical steps you should take to ensure your safety and the longevity of your tyres.

Check the tyre pressure

Before driving off, it's essential to check the tyre pressure of the new tyre. The recommended tyre pressure is usually found on the driver's side door jamb or the owner's manual. Check the pressure and inflate the tyre if necessary.

Test drive the car

After replacing a tyre, taking the car for a short test drive is a good idea. This will allow you to ensure that the new tyre is appropriately installed and that there are no other issues with the car. Listen for any unusual noises, vibrations, or pulling to one side, as these could indicate a problem with the tyre or the car's alignment.

Properly dispose of the old tyre

Once you've successfully replaced your tyre, it's essential to dispose of the old one properly. Don't just leave it on the side of the road or in a landfill. Tyres can be recycled and repurposed, so take the old tyre to a tyre shop or recycling centre to properly dispose of.

Keep an eye on the new tyre

After replacing the tyre, it's essential to ensure regular car maintenance. Check the tyre pressure regularly and look for signs of wear or damage. If you notice any issues with the tyre, such as a slow leak or uneven wear, take the car to a tyre shop to have it inspected.

Get your tyres rotated and balanced regularly

To ensure the longevity of your tyres, it's vital to have them rotated and balanced regularly. This will help ensure even wear and extend your tyres' durability. Check your owner's manual for the recommended rotation and balance intervals, and ensure a qualified tyre technician does the work.

Don't ignore warning signs

If you notice any warning signs related to your tyres, such as vibrations, uneven wear, or bulges, don't ignore them. These could signify a more severe problem and should be addressed immediately by a qualified tyre technician.

Keep a repair kit in the car

Besides a spare tyre, having a tyre repair kit is a good idea. These kits typically include a can of tyre sealant and a compressor, which can temporarily seal a puncture and inflate the tyre. This can be a practical temporary solution if you experience a flat tyre on the road.

Maintain Your Tyres for a Safe Driving Experience

Replacing a tyre may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools, preparation, and safety precautions, it's a task that can be easily accomplished. Remember to take care of your tyres by regularly checking the tyre pressure, getting them rotated and balanced, and addressing any warning signs.

By taking care of your tyres, you can ensure a safe and comfortable driving experience. Well-maintained tyres also improve the value of your car when it comes time to sell.