How Do You Change a Car Tire?

Don’t wait until you get stranded on the side of the Walla Walla road to find the answer to, “How do you change a car tire?” This life skill can help you out of a jam, and it’s easy to learn with the experts at Underriner Honda of Walla Walla! Our service experts share how to change a tire, and how often to change tires to avoid that unexpected flat in Dayton. 

Step-By-Step Instructions for Changing a Tire

First off, you’ll need to ensure you have the right tools to change your tire. Keeping the basics in your car, including a jack, lug wrench, spare tire, and owner’s manual is a must. If you’re replacing all your tires as a preventative measure, and need to acquire a new set, our tire center can help. Once you have what you need, you’ll just have to follow these simple steps: 

1. If you’ve experienced a flat, make sure you’re in a safe place, and your hazards are on. 
2. Apply the parking brake and insert wheel wedges under the other tires.
3. Take off the wheel cover or hubcap and loosen the lug nuts.
4. Next, raise your vehicle using the jack and then remove the lug nuts.
5. Replace the current tire with the new tire.
6. After tightening the lug nuts, lower your vehicle back to the ground.

How Often to Change Car Tires

How often your tires need to be replaced will depend a lot on your driving habits as well as how they’re maintained. If you go off-roading or frequently drive on hazardous roads, your tires may receive more wear and tear. Tires that are properly inflated, rotated, and balanced when needed, will also have a longer life than those that have been neglected. Quality tires that are well-cared for can often last around 50,000 miles. 

How Long Can You Drive on a Spare?

Spares aren’t meant to be a long-term solution and need to be replaced with a new tire as soon as possible. Typically, these tires won’t last more than 50 miles. What’s more, you need to avoid high speeds while using a spare. Specific recommendations are listed on the tire, but most have limits of 50 mph.

Turn to Underriner Honda of Walla Walla for Your Tire Needs

For your tire care needs, the Underriner Honda of Walla Walla tire and service center teams can provide new tires, tire maintenance, and tire repairs. Schedule your appointment today to have your tire treads checked and discuss whether you need new tires!