How Long Does it Take to Change Tires? (Explained)

Changing your vehicle tires is one of the most crucial maintenance tasks you can do to keep your vehicle in good working order. But how long does it take to change tires? This article will explain exactly that.

How Long Does it Take to Change Car Tires?

The average time it takes to change tires is 20 minutes, this ranges from 15-30 minutes depending on the type of car you drive, whether it’s a sedan or an SUV.

Of cause this will vary based on certain factors discussed below, however, The best way to figure out how long it will take you to change tires is by practicing in advance.

Factors That Affect the Time it Takes to Change a Tire:

1. The Type of Tires You Have

The type of tire you are changing can impact the time it takes to complete the task.

For example, run-flat tires, which are designed to be driven on even when they are punctured, may take longer to remove and replace due to their specialized construction.

Similarly, larger tires, such as those found on SUVs and trucks, may also require more time to change due to their size and weight.

2. Operator’s Skill & Experience

The skill and experience of the operator can also affect how quickly a tire is changed.

For example, if you have never changed tires before but want to learn how to do it yourself, it may take you much longer than someone who has done so many times.

3. Tools and Equipment

Having the right tools and equipment on hand can significantly speed up the tire-changing process. This includes a lug wrench, a jack, a spare tire, and a lug nut remover (if necessary).

If you do not have all of these items, it may take longer to find or purchase them, adding to the overall time it takes to change the tire.

4. Where do you get the tires changed

If you take your car to a dealer or a professional auto repair shop to change the tires, it will almost certainly take a shorter time than if you do it yourself.

The professional mechanics at these facilities have all of the necessary tools, equipment and experience to get this job done quickly and efficiently.

If you change the tires yourself then the environment in which you are it will impact the time it takes,

Changing a tire on the side of the road or in a busy parking lot can be challenging due to the lack of space and the potential for passing cars or pedestrians.

In these cases, it may take longer to change the tire due to the need for extra caution and care. On the other hand, changing a tire in a garage or on a driveway provides a more spacious and controlled environment, allowing the process to be completed more quickly.

How To Change Car Tires More Efficiently (DIY)

  1. Gather all necessary tools and equipment before beginning: As mentioned above, having all the necessary tools on hand can save time and prevent delays. Make sure to check your car’s owner’s manual for a list of recommended tools and ensure that you have a properly inflated spare tire.
  2. Park in a safe and flat location: Choose a safe and flat location to change your tires, such as a driveway or a designated parking area. Avoid changing your tire on a hill or on a busy road.
  3. Follow the proper procedure: Changing a tire involves more than just taking off the old one and putting on the new one. It is essential to follow the proper procedure to ensure the safety of yourself and others. This includes using the parking brake, placing blocks behind the tires on the opposite side of the car, and properly jacking up the car. Consult your owner’s manual or a reliable online resource for step-by-step instructions.
  4. Don’t rush: While it is important to change a flat tire as quickly as possible, it is also important to take the necessary precautions and not rush the process. Rushing can lead to mistakes or accidents, ultimately taking longer to fix.