How to Change a Tire

Learning how to change a tire is invaluable since it can save serious time and hassle, whether at home or on roads in Sparta and the surrounding areas. If you are unfamiliar with how to change a tire and have related questions, such as “How long does it take to change a tire?”, Morrie's Onalaska Chevrolet is here for you! We created the following tire guide to enhance your vehicle maintenance skills. You’ll also learn how often to change car tires and the answer to “How much does it cost to change a tire?”. And remember, our service department is here whenever you require professional tire services and we are always ready to answer your questions! 

How to Change a Tire: Important Steps

We broke down what you need to know about changing a car tire successfully! Changing a tire calls for several tools, including wheel wedges, a jack, lug wrench, and spare or new tire: 

1. If you find yourself on the side of the road in Onalaska or a nearby community, move your vehicle to a safe place, such an empty parking lot, and turn on your hazard lights.
2. Activate the parking brake and place wheel wedges under the other tires to keep the vehicle stationary.
3. Remove the hubcap or wheel cover from the tire that needs changing, then loosen the lug nuts with your lug wrench. 
4. Place the jack under your vehicle to raise it, then remove the lug nuts.
5. Take off the current tire and mount the spare or new tire.
6. Tighten the lug nuts with your wrench to ensure the tire is secure, then use the jack to carefully lower your vehicle back down.

How Long Does it Take to Change a Tire? 

Changing one tire typically takes 10 to 15 minutes depending on the level of experience. If all four tires need attention, you’ll probably spend 45 minutes to an hour performing the changes. 

How Often Should You Change Car Tires?

Tires generally last 36,000 to 75,000 miles, or four to six years. Specific changing times are based on factors such as how often you drive, what kind of terrain you usually drive on, how well the tires are maintained, and the regional climate.

How Many Miles Can You Go on a Spare Tire?

A spare tire is a temporary remedy, not a permanent solution. You can drive around La Crosse and the surrounding areas for about 50 miles on a spare tire before it needs changing. It is also recommended that you do not drive above 50 miles an hour on a spare tire, since they are not designed for fast speeds. 

How Much Does it Cost to Change a Tire? 

How much it costs to change a tire usually ranges between $15 and $45 per tire. The cost varies in light of where you go for professional vehicle services and the tire size. 

Our Service Center Is Here to Help 

If you need your tires professionally changed, rotated, or replaced, contact our service department at (608) 519-4710! Our team of certified technicians are here to help keep your vehicle in excellent condition. For more maintenance-related reads, check out our posts on the benefits of OEM parts and what causes a car to hesitate when you accelerate!