Working on soft or sloped ground
The setup controls the result. Take another minute to make the workspace stable and predictable.
YOUR BRAND NAME
Preparing the next step…
repair guide · 8 steps
How to Change a Tire
Safely lift the vehicle, remove the wheel, fit the spare, and torque it correctly.
DifficultyBeginner
Time required20 min
Estimated cost$0–$15
Guide length8 clear steps
Safety levelFocused
08
The outcome
Follow the sequence.
Understand the why.
This guide is designed to be used while you work. Each photograph shows a distinct stage, safety notes appear before the risk, and your progress is saved on this device.
Visual confidence check
At every stage, compare alignment and position—not just the finished appearance.
Before you begin
Set yourself up.
0/ 6
ready
ready
Tools
Materials
The walkthrough
One deliberate step at a time.
Open any image for detailed zoom. Mark steps complete as you go.
Step 1 of 8
01
Get completely off the road
Stop on firm, level ground. Set the parking brake, switch on hazards, place the transmission in Park, and keep everyone away from traffic.
Safety warning
Never change a wheel where passing traffic can reach you. Call roadside assistance if a safe location is unavailable.
Step 2 of 8
02
Chock the opposite wheel
Place a wheel chock diagonally opposite the flat. This limits vehicle movement while one corner is raised.
Pro tip
A solid block can work in an emergency, but a purpose-made rubber chock grips better.
Step 3 of 8
03
Break the lug nuts loose
Remove the hubcap if fitted. With the tire still on the ground, turn each lug nut about a quarter turn counterclockwise using a cross pattern.
Pro tip
Do not remove the nuts yet—the vehicle’s weight prevents the wheel from spinning.
Step 4 of 8
04
Find the lift point
Locate the reinforced pinch weld or frame lift point shown in the owner’s manual. Center the jack saddle exactly beneath it.
Safety warning
Lifting on the floor pan, plastic trim, or suspension arms can damage the car and cause it to fall.
Step 5 of 8
05
Raise and support the vehicle
Lift until the flat tire clears the ground by roughly 3 cm. If working beyond a roadside wheel swap, add a rated jack stand at a manufacturer-approved support point.
Safety warning
Never put any part of your body beneath a vehicle supported only by a jack.
Step 6 of 8
06
Remove the flat wheel
Finish removing the loosened nuts. Hold the tire at 3 and 9 o’clock, pull it straight toward you, and place it flat under the sill as an extra precaution.
Step 7 of 8
07
Fit the spare
Align the wheel holes with the studs, slide the spare fully home, and spin every nut on by hand with the tapered side facing inward.
Pro tip
If a nut will not turn easily by hand, back it off. It is probably cross-threaded.
Step 8 of 8
08
Lower and torque
Lower until the tire just touches the ground. Tighten in a star pattern to the owner’s-manual torque, then lower fully and recheck every nut.
Pro tip
Temporary spares usually have speed and distance limits. Check their sidewall and arrange a permanent repair.
Avoid the re-do
Common mistakes.
Using the jack outside the approved lift point
More force or more material rarely solves poor alignment. Reset and use a controlled technique.
Tightening lug nuts in a circle instead of a star
A deliberate final check catches small problems while they are still easy to correct.
Tutorial complete
You did the work.
Complete 8 more steps to finish this guide.
Before you go
Common questions.
Can a complete beginner do this?
Yes. This guide is paced for a beginner, but stop whenever a step differs from the photographs or your manufacturer’s instructions.
How do I know the result is safe?
Use the final verification step and never ignore movement, leaks, excessive heat, unusual noise, or a fastener that will not seat normally.
What if my model or materials differ?
Pause and find the exact manual or specification. The sequence can still help, but model-specific safety information always takes priority.
How to Jump Start a Car
Connect jumper cables in the safe order and get a flat battery moving again.
How to Change Engine Oil
Drain, replace the filter, refill, and check for leaks like a careful technician.
How to Replace a Car Battery
Identify terminals, preserve settings, and install a battery without dangerous shorts.