How To Change a Tire

While good maintenance can keep your tires in top shape for the long run, flat tires happen from time to time. Luckily, learning how to change a tire is not as intimidating as it may seem! The team at Show Me Auto Mall is here to walk you through the simple steps, so you’ll have the skills you need in case of an emergency in Harrisonville or Harrisonville. Feel free to contact us at Show Me Auto Mall with any questions and we’ll give you all of our best service tips.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Tires

You’ll need a jack, wrench, and spare tire at minimum to change a flat. But, you might want additional supplies like a flashlight, gloves, and tire gauge. Be sure to check your spare tire every season to make sure it has the proper air pressure. If you have all the supplies needed, here are the basic steps you’ll go through to change your tire.

• Pull over in a safe spot. Look for a place with level ground to prevent your car from rolling.
• Use your hazard lights and parking brake. This will help with your visibility, while also keeping your car steady as you work.
• Remove the hubcap and loosen the lug nuts by turning them counterclockwise. Loosen each one until you can turn it by hand.
• Place the jack under a metal portion of the car’s frame for optimal stability. Check your owners’s manual for additional tips.
• Raise your car with the jack, making sure it stays perpendicular to the ground.
• Remove the lug nuts completely and put them in a safe spot. Pull off the tire.
• Line up the spare tire and push it as far as you can into the wheelbase.
• Place the lug nuts on the tire and tighten, but don’t tighten as far as they can go yet. Try to keep the tire even.
• Lower the vehicle with the jack until the tire touches the ground. Tighten the lug nuts, alternating as you go. 
• Lower the vehicle completely. Check that the lug nuts are on tight. Once they are solid, you’re ready to go.

How Often To Change Car Tires

What about how often to change car tires? Most experts give your tires an eight to ten year lifespan. And while your car tires will last a long time with proper care, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on them for any signs of premature damage. Regularly check the rubber tread for punctures and tears, and check the tread depth to ensure that you have good traction for the Belton roads ahead. Your tires should have more than 2/32 inches of tread depth for safe driving. Once you hit that mark, you’ll need to schedule a trip to the tire department!

Get Expert Tire Care at Show Me Auto Mall

Now you know how to change a tire, but did you know that the best way to prevent a flat is to schedule regular tire maintenance? Feel free to schedule your service with our experts in Harrisonville at any time, or visit our tire center to pick up a brand new set. You can also contact us for more information!