How to Change a Car Tire

Few sudden automotive mishaps are as frustrating, yet easy to fix, as a flat tire. Along with knowing how to jump-start a car, it’s one of the best things to know about your car. Whether you have a flat tire or you’d like to install your own new tires to save money, the service team at South Dade Kia of Homestead offers some easy instructions on how to change a tire, how often to change car tires, and more. Learn how to change a tire with us today! 

Changing Your Car’s Tires

Tools You’ll Need to Change a Tire

The first thing you need to know about how to change a tire is what tools you’ll need. It’s smart to keep these in your vehicle for easy access, since flat tires in Florida City or Princeton are difficult to predict: 

• Jack 
• Lug wrench
• Wheel wedges
• Spare tire or new tire(s)
• Owner’s manual. 

How to Change Your Car’s Tires Step by Step

Replacing a tire on your car, truck, or SUV is a fairly simple and straightforward process: 

1. If you’re on the side of the road, move to a safe place like a parking lot, and turn on your hazard lights.
2. Engage the parking brake and place wheel wedges under the other tires.
3. Remove the wheel cover or hubcap from the tire, then loosen the lug nuts.
4. Use the jack to raise your vehicle, then remove the lug nuts.
5. Remove the current tire and mount the new or spare tire.
6. Tighten the lug nuts, then lower your vehicle back to the ground.

How Often Should You Change Car Tires?

The lifespan of your tires depends a lot on how you drive and where you drive. If you’re routinely on rough or unpaved roads, the frequency of how often you should change your car tires will increase. Likewise, if you’re in the habit of slamming on your brakes or skipping vital tire maintenance like rotations, you’re not going to get as many months out of your tires, so make sure you schedule a tire rotation when you get your oil changed. The quality of your tires makes a difference, too. Good-quality tires under proper care usually last from 12,000–15,000 miles. 

Get More Tire Tips From South Dade Kia of Homestead

The service department at South Dade Kia of Homestead does more than just fix cars. We want you to have the power to keep your vehicle in great condition for as long as you drive it. If you’d like to learn more about automotive maintenance and DIY tricks you can do from home between maintenance appointments, visit our car service tips for more helpful articles.