How to Change a Tire

It could be a flat tire or the treads have worn down too far and you’re not sure how much longer they’ll last. In any case, knowing how to change a tire is an important skill to have, as it prevents you from waiting on the side of the road in Eagan or driving with dangerous tires around Woodbury. Mauer GMC is here to showcase how you can change your car tires.

Changing Your GMC Tires

In order to change the tires on your GMC vehicle, you need the right tools: a jack, lug wrench, spare tire or new tire(s), and your owner’s manual. Replacing the tire on a car, truck, or SUV is a simple and straightforward process:

• If you’re on the side of the road near Saint Paul, move to a safe place and turn on the hazard lights.

• No matter your location, apply the parking brake and wheel wedges under the other tires.

• Remove the wheel cover or hubcap from the tire, then begin loosening the lug nuts.

• Use the jack to raise your vehicle and remove the lug nuts.

• Remove the current tire and mount the new or spare tire.

• Tighten all the lug nuts, then lower your vehicle back to the ground.

How Often Should You Change Car Tires?

One question our staff often receives is “how often one should change their car tires?” This largely depends on how frequently you rotate your tires and how well-made your existing tires are. If they’re frequently rotated, you’ll be able to get the promised fuel mileage. However, it’s important to always check your tire pressure and the treads frequently, just to be safe. If you notice the tread wear is too prominent, you’re going to need new tires.

To make sure your tires last as long as possible, you should probably schedule a tire rotation alongside an oil change. Our service technicians are equipped to handle both with ease.

How to Put Air in Your Tires

Maybe your tire doesn’t need to be changed at the moment and you’re wondering about putting air in. If you don’t have an air pump or are traveling, stop by a local gas station and use theirs. Here’s how to put air in your tires:

• Park your vehicle by the air dispenser and ensure that the hose can reach every tire.

• Remove the cap on the tire valve of the first tire.

• Check the air pressure in the tire by using the tire gauge. It’s helpful to do this at home, even if you’ve used the gas station air pump to fill your tires, because tires can heat up when you drive and cause the air inside to expand. This can result in a false reading.

• Use the air hose to add small amounts of air in short, quick bursts while checking the tire gauge each time.

Always remember to keep checking the tire gauge until you hit the right amount of pressure. It can be impossible to get it right the first time, but you’ll get there!

How Many Miles Can You Go on a Spare Tire?

If you’re forced to put a spare tire on your vehicle, you’ll need to get a new, permanent tire installed as soon as possible. Spare tires are not designed for long-term driving, most rarely last more than 50 miles. You also shouldn’t drive on them at high speeds. Every spare tire outlines its specific limits for use, but most require driving below 50 mph.

The Mauer GMC Service Center Supports All Your Tire Needs

If you’re not comfortable changing your tires on your own or have questions about what tire you need, Mauer GMC is here to help. Call us at (651) 645-9474 or contact us online to schedule an appointment. We also offer service specials and the option to order parts online if you want to customize your vehicle. Call us today and keep your tires running as long as possible!