How to Change a Tyre | Rooster
Knowing how to change a tyre is an essential skill for any driver. A flat tyre can happen at the most inconvenient time, but with the right tools and knowledge, you can get back on the road quickly and safely. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to change a tyre like a pro.
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools in your car:
- Spare tyre (fully inflated)
- Jack
- Wheel wrench or lug wrench
- Wheel wedges or blocks
- Torch (if changing a tyre at night)
- Gloves and a reflective jacket for safety
Steps to Change a Tyre
- Find a Safe Location
Pull over to a safe, flat area away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights and apply the handbrake. Use wheel wedges to secure the opposite side of the car from the flat tyre. - Loosen the Lug Nuts
Use the wheel wrench to loosen the lug nuts slightly. Do not remove them completely yet. - Position the Jack
Place the jack under the car at the designated jacking point near the flat tyre (refer to your car’s manual). Raise the car until the flat tyre is slightly off the ground. - Remove the Lug Nuts and Tyre
Fully unscrew the loosened lug nuts and carefully remove the flat tyre. Place the nuts in a secure location to avoid losing them. - Mount the Spare Tyre
Align the spare tyre with the wheel bolts and slide it into place. Screw the lug nuts back on by hand, tightening them as much as possible. - Lower the Car and Tighten Lug Nuts
Lower the car so the spare tyre is just touching the ground. Use the wheel wrench to fully tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even tightening. - Lower the Car Completely
Once the lug nuts are secure, lower the car completely and remove the jack. - Check the Tyre Pressure
If possible, check the spare tyre’s pressure to ensure it’s safe for driving.
Important Tips
- Drive Cautiously: Spare tyres are often temporary and not designed for long distances or high speeds. Replace it with a full tyre as soon as possible.
- Check Your Toolkit Regularly: Ensure all tools are in good condition and the spare tyre is fully inflated.
How Rooster Can Help
Rooster’s app provides reminders for tyre checks, ensuring your spare is always ready to go. With tools like the MOT predictor and maintenance tracker, you can stay on top of your car’s health and avoid unexpected breakdowns.
