How to Change a Tire: Step-by-Step (and What to Have on Hand)

Flat or damaged tires can happen anytime. Stay calm, get to a safe spot, and use this simple guide to change your tire. If you’d rather have a pro handle it, you can always schedule an appointment.

Before you start: turn on your hazard lights and pull onto level ground, away from traffic. It’s okay to drive slowly for a short distance on a flat if that’s what it takes to reach a safe place.

What you’ll need

Keep a basic tire change kit in your vehicle. Some vehicles include one from the factory. You’ll need: - Spare tire - Jack - Lug wrench - Wheel chocks or sturdy blocks (if available) - Optional but helpful: gloves, flashlight, kneeling pad, and your wheel lock key (if you have locking lug nuts)

Need a spare? Shop spare tires.

Step-by-step: change a flat tire

  1. Find a safe spot

  2. Turn on hazard lights.

  3. Park on flat, firm ground, well away from traffic.

  4. Secure the vehicle

  5. Set the parking brake. Put the vehicle in Park (automatic) or in gear (manual).

  6. Place wheel chocks/blocks behind the tire opposite the flat if available.

  7. Remove the hubcap (if equipped)

  8. If your wheel has a hubcap, pry it off carefully at a few points (like a paint can lid) using a pry tool, screwdriver, lug wrench, or the flat end of the jack handle.

Prefer to watch first? See a quick tire-change video.

  1. Loosen the lug nuts

  2. Turn each lug nut counterclockwise just to break them loose. Don’t remove them yet.

  3. Work in a star pattern for even pressure.

  4. Raise the vehicle

  5. Consult your owner’s manual for the correct jack point.

  6. Jack the vehicle up until the flat tire is just off the ground.

  7. Remove the lug nuts and flat tire

  8. Take off the lug nuts and set them aside where they won’t roll away.
  9. Pull the wheel straight off the hub. Be cautious—tires can be hot or damaged.

  10. Lay the flat tire under the vehicle (near the jack) as a safety backup if space allows.

  11. Mount the spare

  12. Align the wheel holes with the studs and slide the spare on fully.

  13. Hand‑thread the lug nuts and snug them in a star pattern.

  14. Lower and tighten

  15. Lower the vehicle until the tire just contacts the ground and won’t spin.
  16. Tighten the lug nuts firmly in a star pattern.
  17. Fully lower the vehicle and give each lug one more firm turn in the same star sequence.

Want a full walkthrough? Watch our 10-step tire change video.

Aftercare and safety checks

Quick answers about spares

Tire services and what’s often free

What tire centers typically include with new tire purchase: - Professional mounting and balancing - Replacement rubber valve stems or TPMS service as needed - Old tire disposal - Mileage/treadwear warranty support from the tire manufacturer - Complimentary service perks at many shops, such as rotation and balance checks at set intervals

What’s commonly offered at no charge by many shops: - Air pressure check and fill - Visual tire safety inspection (tread depth, wear patterns, sidewall condition) - TPMS light check and basic resets - Flat repair evaluation; some shops also repair punctures for free when repairable

Where to get a tire inspection (and ask about free options): - Stop by a local tire shop and ask for a tire safety check. To visit us, find a store near you or schedule an appointment. For repairability and process details, see our tire inspection service.

Note: Services included with purchase and free offerings vary by location and retailer. Call ahead to confirm what’s covered at your nearest store.

Prefer pro help?

Bring your flat to any of our stores for an inspection and, if it can be safely repaired, we’ll patch it up and get you back on the road. If not, we’ll help you choose the right replacement.