HOW TO CHANGE A CAR TIRE - Complete Beginner's Guide What You'll Need: Spare tire (properly inflated) Car jack Lug wrench Vehicle owner's manual Wheel wedges or blocks Gloves (optional but recommended) Before You Begin: Find a safe, flat, stable surface away from traffic. Turn on hazard lights and engage the parking brake. Step-by-Step Instructions: Secure the vehicle - Place wheel wedges behind the tires (opposite end from the flat) to prevent rolling. Remove the hubcap or wheel cover - Use the flat end of your lug wrench to gently pry it off if necessary. Loosen the lug nuts - Turn counterclockwise, but don't remove completely yet. You may need to use your body weight - this is normal. Position the jack - Consult your owner's manual for the correct jack point. Place jack securely under the vehicle's designated lifting point. Raise the vehicle - Turn jack handle clockwise until the flat tire is 6 inches off the ground. Never put any part of your body under the vehicle. Remove the lug nuts completely - Keep them together in a safe place where they won't roll away. Remove the flat tire - Pull it straight toward you to remove it from the wheel bolts. It will be heavy - use your legs, not your back. Mount the spare tire - Align the rim holes with wheel bolts and push the spare tire onto the wheel hub. Replace the lug nuts - Tighten by hand first, then use the wrench to make them snug but not fully tight yet. Lower the vehicle - Use the jack to lower the car until the spare tire touches the ground but still supports some weight. Fully tighten the lug nuts - Use the lug wrench to tighten completely in a star or crisscross pattern. Lower completely and remove jack - Ensure the spare tire is firmly on the ground bearing the full weight. Success Check: The spare tire should be securely attached with all lug nuts tight. Store the flat tire and tools in your trunk. Important Reminders: Most spare tires are temporary - drive slowly (under 50 mph) and replace with a full-size tire soon.