Essential Tools for Changing a Tire

A flat tire can be, at best, an unwelcome occurrence that slows down your day a bit or, at worst, a totally distressing situation that leaves you stranded on the side of the road. Learning how to change a tire puts you in a much better position to get out of harm's way when the occasion arises. All you really need to accomplish the task are the essential tools for changing a tire and a little elbow grease.

The first tool you need for changing a tire is a large, sturdy object that stops your car from rolling while you are changing the tire. This can be as simple as a block of wood or other sturdy object that you place on the back of the tire that is located opposite of the tire that needs to be changed. Next, you need a lug wrench to remove the lug nuts that hold the tire onto the hub cap. If you possess ample arm strength, a 14-inch lug wrench might be manageable for you. However, if your arms are not very strong, you might want to go with the greater leverage of a 20-inch lug wrench. The extra 6 inches of length on the larger wrench make it possible for you to actually stand on it and use your body weight to help loosen the nuts.

You also need a tire jack to elevate your car high enough to change the tire. Manual tire jacks generally come with a tire iron that you insert and twist clockwise or counterclockwise to lift and lower your car. You can also purchase a hydraulic tire jack that comes equipped with a foot petal that allows you to almost effortlessly raise and lower your car.

It goes without saying that you need a spare or full-sized tire to complete the tire-changing process. Choose a spare or full-sized tire that fits easily into your truck and that you can remove without putting undue strain on yourself during this often unanticipated, cumbersome experience.

Remember to keep all of your essential tools for changing a tire in your trunk at all times. Getting a flat tire is almost always an unexpected event that leaves you open to the elements and passing cars. However, getting a flat tire without having your tools handy is a more problematic experience that prolongs the inconveniencing, agitating situation.