How To Change GMC Tires

Changing a tire is a critical skill every GMC owner should know. Whether you’ve experienced a flat on the road or simply need to swap out tires for seasonal changes, understanding how to change your GMC tires will save you time and frustration. At Fairway GMC, we want to make sure you feel confident in taking care of your vehicle. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to safely and effectively change your GMC’s tires.

1. Gather Necessary Tools and Materials

Before you start the process, make sure you have the following tools:

• A spare tire
• A jack and jack stands
• A lug wrench or impact wrench
• A wheel chock (optional, but recommended)
• A crowbar or tire iron (for stubborn lug nuts)
• A flashlight if you’re working in low light conditions

Having all these tools ready will make the tire change process smoother and safer.

2. Secure the Vehicle and Loosen the Lug Nuts

First, ensure that your GMC is parked on a level surface, away from traffic if you’re changing a tire on the road. Apply the parking brake to prevent the vehicle from rolling.

Place a wheel chock behind the opposite tire for additional safety, and then use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire. Do not fully remove the lug nuts yet—just loosen them enough so they are easier to remove once the vehicle is lifted.

3. Lift the Vehicle

Using the jack, lift the vehicle until the flat tire is off the ground. Be sure to position the jack underneath the vehicle’s recommended lift points, which can be found in your GMC’s owner’s manual. Once the vehicle is lifted high enough, secure it with jack stands for added safety.

4. Remove the Flat Tire

Now that the vehicle is securely elevated, use the lug wrench to fully remove the loosened lug nuts. Keep the lug nuts in a safe place for reinstallation. Once the nuts are removed, carefully pull the flat tire off the wheel hub.

5. Install the Spare Tire

Align the spare tire with the wheel hub and gently slide it into place. Make sure the holes in the wheel align with the lugs of the hub. Once the tire is in place, hand-tighten the lug nuts onto the bolts. Do not fully tighten them at this stage—just secure them enough to hold the tire in place.

6. Lower the Vehicle and Tighten the Lug Nuts

Slowly lower the vehicle back to the ground using the jack, but do not fully release the jack just yet. Once the tire is in contact with the ground, use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure. It’s crucial to tighten the nuts firmly to prevent the wheel from coming loose while driving.

7. Double Check and Store Tools

After the lug nuts are tightened, lower the vehicle completely and remove the jack and jack stands. Double-check that the tire is securely attached and that the lug nuts are tight. Store the flat tire, jack, and other tools in the trunk or designated storage area.

Changing your GMC’s tires is a straightforward process, but it’s important to follow the right steps for safety and accuracy. If you need assistance with tire replacement or are looking for professional tire services, Fairway GMC is here to help. Our expert team can help with tire maintenance, replacements, and any other vehicle needs to ensure your GMC remains in top driving condition.