How to Change a Tire

Changing a tire is an important skill that is useful when you least expect it. Whether you experience a flat tire in Round Rock, need to replace old tires in Leander, or wonder how often to change car tires, it’s always better to be prepared. At Covert Buick GMC Austin, we’re here to help you learn how to change a tire efficiently and safely.

Our team of experts in Austin is dedicated to providing you with the best guidance and support so you can feel confident and empowered to handle any tire-related challenges you face while on the road.

How To Change Your Car Tires

You will need specific tools to change your car’s tires, including a jack, lug wrench, new tire or spare tire, and owner’s manual. Here is a step-by-step guide that will help you on how to change a tire:

1. If you’re near Cedar Park, find a safe location and turn on your hazard lights.
2. Engage the parking brake and place wheel wedges under the other tires for stability.
3. Remove the wheel cover or hubcap before loosening the lug nuts.
4. Use the jack to lift the vehicle, then fully remove the lug nuts.
5. Replace the old tire with the new or spare tire.
6. Tighten the lug nuts and lower the vehicle back to the ground.

How Often To Change Car Tires?

The frequency at which car tires should be changed is influenced by various factors, such as the driver’s habits and the quality of the tires. Tire rotations done regularly can help increase the lifespan of the tires, but it is also crucial to monitor tire pressure and the wear of the treads. 

Once the tread wear becomes significant, it is time to change the car tires. Including tire rotations as part of your regular maintenance routine, like during oil changes, can help prolong your tires’ life.

How to Put Air in Your Tires

While understanding how to change a tire is crucial, sometimes all you need is to adjust the air pressure. Here’s how to put air in your tires:

• Park your vehicle near an air dispenser, ensuring the hose can reach each tire.
• Remove the valve cap from each tire.
• Check the air pressure using a tire gauge. Doing this check at home before visiting a gas station to inflate your tires is advisable. Driving can heat the tires, leading to the expansion of air inside them, which might result in inaccurate pressure readings.
• Use the air hose to add air in increments, checking the pressure until it’s correct.

The Lifespan of a Spare Tire

After learning how to change a tire, it’s important to know the limits of a spare tire. Spare tires are not designed for long-term use, are generally limited to about 50 miles, and should be driven at reduced speeds. Always adhere to the guidelines specific to your spare tire.

Tire Services at Covert Buick GMC Austin

If you’re hesitant about how to change a tire yourself, or you need advice on how often to change car tires, the Covert Buick GMC Austin service center in Austin is here to help. Our team can assist with tire changes, rotations, and tire-related inquiries. Use our convenient tire finder tool for additional assistance in selecting the perfect tires for your vehicle.