How to Change a Tire: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Flat tires are one of the most common roadside problems in the Philippines, especially with our unpredictable weather, rough roads, and heavy traffic. Knowing how to change a flat tire can save you hours of waiting for roadside help and keep you moving safely. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to change a tire. 

Park Safely and Prepare the Area

In the Philippines, always stop in a safe spot — ideally on a flat concrete shoulder or parking area. Avoid stopping at blind curves, soft shoulders, or steep inclines. Turn on your hazard lights and, if possible, place your early warning devices (reflectors or triangles) about 3–5 meters behind your car to warn other motorists. Engage the parking brake and, if available, place wheel wedges opposite the flat tire.

Learn How to Check Tire Tread and Know When to Change Tires

Tools You Need to Change a Flat Tire

Make sure your car is equipped with the following:

• Jack – for lifting the vehicle
• Lug wrench – for loosening and tightening nuts
• Inflated spare tire – check it monthly
• Owner’s manual – for specific instructions
• Optional but useful:
  

  • Early warning devices (mandatory in the PH)
  • Tire pressure gauge
  • Flathead screwdriver
  • Portable tire inflator (useful during long trips)

Loosen Lug Nuts Before Raising the Vehicle

With the car still on the ground, use the lug wrench to loosen the nuts counterclockwise. They might be very tight, so you may need to use your foot or full body weight to break them loose. Do not remove the nuts yet. Remove the hubcap, if any, using a screwdriver or the back of the wrench. For cars with locking lug nuts, use the key included with your vehicle.

Jack Up the Vehicle Using Proper Jack Points

Locate the jack points indicated in your owner’s manual — usually behind the front wheels and ahead of the rear wheels. Place the jack securely and raise the car until the flat tire is about 6 inches off the ground. Never position the jack on soft soil, grass, or loose gravel.

Remove the Flat Tire

Once raised, fully remove the loosened lug nuts and keep them in the hubcap or a secure pouch. Pull the flat tire straight off and set it flat on the ground so it doesn’t roll away.

Mount the Spare Tire

Position the spare onto the wheel bolts, ensuring it sits snugly on the hub. Replace the lug nuts and hand-tighten them in a crisscross or star pattern to secure the wheel evenly.

Lower the Vehicle and Tighten Lug Nuts

Slowly lower the car until all four tires are on the ground. Remove the jack. Use the wrench to fully tighten the nuts in a star pattern for balanced pressure. This is critical to avoid wobbling while driving.

Check Tire Pressure and Store Your Tools

Use a tire gauge to check the spare’s pressure — many compact spares require 55–60 PSI. If the spare is under-inflated, drive cautiously to the nearest vulcanizing shop or use a portable inflator. Return all tools and the flat tire to your trunk and remove the warning devices before resuming your trip.

Spare Tire Tips

Full-Size vs. Donut Spare

• Full-Size Spare: Same as your regular tires, no driving restrictions.
• Donut Spare: Smaller and lighter. Do not drive over 80 km/h or farther than 80 km. Replace it with a permanent tire as soon as possible.

Essential Safety Reminders

• In the Philippines, early warning devices are required by law.
• Keep your tools and spare tire in good condition; check them monthly.
• Practice changing your tire at home so you’re confident during emergencies.
• Never put yourself or passengers at risk — if it’s unsafe to change the tire on the roadside, call for assistance.

Where to Get Reliable Tires and Tools

For high-quality spare tires, tools, and accessories that suit Philippine roads, visit KGCAR.PH. They offer a wide selection of automotive products delivered anywhere in the Philippines, making sure you’re prepared for any roadside emergency.

Being ready to handle a flat tire can save you from inconvenience and danger on Philippine roads. Equip your car with the proper tools, practice these steps, and always keep your spare in good condition.