To change a tire, you'll need the following: A spare tire – a smaller-diameter replacement tire or “donut tire” is usually available with most vehicles. A manual car jack – a mechanical device to lift the car and raise the flat tire off the ground. A lug wrench – to loosen and tighten the lug nuts that hold the tire onto the wheel. A wheel chock, wheel wedge, or block of wood – to prevent accidental vehicle movement while changing the tire.