Pickup Truck2020-2024
20 min
Moderate

How to Change a Tire on GMC Sierra [Complete Guide]

The GMC Sierra is a full-size pickup truck similar to the Chevrolet Silverado. The spare tire is located under the truck bed.

Spare Tire Location

The spare tire is mounted under the truck bed at the rear. Lower it using the jack handle extension through the access hole near the rear bumper.

Jack Points

Position the jack under the frame rail at designated lift points. These are typically located about 12 inches behind the front wheel or in front of the rear wheel on the frame.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1
Find a Safe Location

Pull over to a flat, stable surface away from traffic. Turn on hazard lights and engage the parking brake.

Find a Safe Location
2
Secure the Vehicle

Place in Park and set the parking brake. Position wheel wedges behind the opposite tire.

Secure the Vehicle
3
Lower the Spare Tire

Locate the spare tire winch access hole near the rear bumper. Insert the jack handle extension and turn counterclockwise to lower the spare tire.

Lower the Spare Tire
4
Loosen Lug Nuts

Loosen all lug nuts on the flat tire about one turn each while the vehicle is still on the ground.

Loosen Lug Nuts
5
Lift the Vehicle

Position the jack under the frame rail at the designated lift point. Raise until the flat tire is 6 inches off the ground.

Lift the Vehicle
6
Remove Flat Tire

Remove lug nuts and pull the tire straight off. Place it in the truck bed.

Remove Flat Tire
7
Install Spare Tire

Mount the spare tire onto the wheel studs. Hand-tighten lug nuts in a star pattern.

Install Spare Tire
8
Lower and Tighten

Lower the vehicle. Fully tighten lug nuts in a star pattern. Remove the jack.

Lower and Tighten
9
Stow Equipment

Secure the flat tire and store all equipment properly.

Stow Equipment

Frequently Asked Questions

Special Notes

Sierra HD models (2500/3500) have different procedures and jack points. Consult your owner's manual for heavy-duty models.

Tools Required
  • Car Jack(Required)

    A device used to lift the vehicle off the ground. Most vehicles come with a scissor jack, but hydraulic jacks are easier to use.

  • Lug Wrench(Required)

    A tool used to loosen and tighten the lug nuts on your wheels. Often comes with the vehicle as a tire iron.

  • Spare Tire(Required)

    A backup tire that comes with your vehicle. Check tire pressure regularly as spares can lose air over time.

  • Flashlight

    Essential for nighttime tire changes. A headlamp keeps your hands free.

  • Work Gloves

    Protect your hands from hot surfaces, sharp edges, and dirt.

Safety First

Always prioritize your safety. If you're in an unsafe location or feel uncomfortable, call roadside assistance.