Let's start at the beginning. Tyres help get us from A to B but there are things we can do to maintain their life and when required change them ourselves.

Make it a habit to check your tyre pressure once a month when you fill up with petrol. Most petrol stations have a safe area where you can do this.  Having the correct tyre pressure will also improve your fuel consumption and save you money.

There are two types of air pumps available at service stations. The older type requires you to remove the cap off the tyre valve and place the inflator on the valve. Press firmly and look at the gauge.  A good pressure for most cars is 30 – 32psi. Your vehicle handbook will list the recommend pressure for your tyres. If your tyre pressure is too high depress the inflator button or handle half way to release air from your tyre. Recheck the gauge for the correct pressure. On the other hand, if your tyre pressure is too low, press the button or handle fully to inflate the tyre, remembering to check the gauge for the correct pressure.

The new type of inflator is even easier to use.  After removing your tyre valve cap and placing the inflator on the valve, select the desired tyre pressure on a screen. The inflating machine does the rest for you.  Make sure you replace the tyre valve cap after checking the pressure.

If you are unfortunate to get a flat tyre do not despair. Follow these simple steps to get yourself out of trouble.

1. Park the car on a flat area away from traffic. Don't be afraid to move the car a small distance with a flat tyre to get to a safe area.
2. Locate the tools in the vehicle. These are usually in the boot.
3. Locate the spare tyre. Common areas are in the boot or under the middle of the car for larger vehicles.
4. Get out your vehicle hand book so that you can refer to it when required.
5. Make sure the vehicle is in gear or park and the engine is switched off.
6. Use the tyre wrench to loosen the wheel nuts that hold the wheel on  - make sure you do not remove them completely.  All wheel nuts undo anti-clockwise.
7. Place the Jack in the area that is stated in your hand book. This area will vary for each vehicle.
8. Jack up the vehicle so that the flat tyre is well in the air.  Make sure it is not to high or the vehicle may become unstable.
9. Remove the wheel nuts.
10. Remove the flat tyre.
11. Refit the spare tyre.
12. Refit the nuts and do them up tight in a clockwise motion.
13. Lower the vehicle back to the ground.
14. Recheck the wheel nuts and make sure they are tight. It is easy to do this in a star pattern.
15. Pack all your tools away and off you go.

If you are not confident in changing your tyre when required, don't hesitate to contact your local Female Friendly™ Mechanic or Road Side Assistance provider.

Handy Tip! Try changing a tyre one day at home when you have spare time and are not under pressure. This is especially useful for mothers to learn how to change the tyre without having a car full of screaming children.