How to Change a Tire

Having a flat tire or worn treads on the Peoria roads can place drivers in a difficult position. Knowing how to change a tire is a skill that can prevent long roadside waits or driving on unsafe tires. That’s why Ray Dennison Cadillac’s service team is here to teach you how to change a tire and when you should replace tires so you’re ready for the Morton roads!

How to Change a Tire on Your Cadillac Model

To change your Cadillac’s tires, you’ll require specific tools: a jack, lug wrench, spare or new tire(s), and your owner’s manual. The tire replacement process for your car, truck, or SUV is relatively straightforward:

1. If stranded near Bloomington, shift to a safe location and activate your hazard lights. 
2. Irrespective of your location, engage the parking brake and place wheel wedges under the other tires. 
3. Remove the wheel cover or hubcap, and loosen the lug nuts. Utilize the jack to elevate your vehicle and remove the lug nuts. 
4. Take off the current tire and install the new or spare tire. 
5. Tighten the lug nuts, then gently lower your vehicle back to the ground.

How Often to Change Car Tires

Knowing how often to change car tires depends on how regularly you rotate your tires and the tire quality. Routine tire rotation ensures you attain the full mileage as promised. In addition, you should regularly check your tire pressure and tread wear for safety. If tread wear is excessive, it’s time for new tires. To maximize tire lifespan, schedule tire rotations during oil changes.

How to Put Air in Your Tires

If your tire isn’t punctured or the tread wear is not excessive, you may be safe to simply add some air to your tires. To do so, follow these steps:

1. Park near the air dispenser and ensure the hose reaches each tire. 
2. Remove the valve cap from the first tire and gauge the air pressure using a tire gauge. It’s wise to do this at home before heading to the gas station as driving can heat tires, affecting air expansion and readings. 
3. Using the air hose, add air in short bursts, checking the gauge each time. Keep checking until reaching the recommended pressure.

Remember, getting the pressure right might take a few attempts.

How Many Miles Can You Go on a Spare Tire?

Spare tires aren’t for long-term use, typically handling less than 50 miles, and it’s crucial to avoid high-speed driving. Specific instructions can be found on the spare tire your vehicle has, but generally, you should stay below 50 mph when driving on a spare.

The Ray Dennison Cadillac Service Center Helps with Your Tire Needs

If you’re unsure about how often to change your car tires or your tire selection, our team at Ray Dennison Cadillac is here to assist. Contact us for tire-related queries or schedule your next tire rotation or change at our Pekin service center!