Changing a flat tire can be a daunting task, but with our step-by-step guide, you’ll be back on the road in no time. We’ll walk you through the process of safely removing the flat tire.
- Find a safe location to change the tire: Pull over to a flat and level surface that is away from traffic, such as a parking lot or side of the road. Turn on your hazard lights and engage your parking brake.
- Gather the necessary tools: Locate your spare tire, jack, and lug wrench. These items are usually found in the trunk of your car, under the floor mat or in a compartment.
- Loosen the lug nuts: Use the lug wrench to turn each lug nut counterclockwise. Don’t remove them yet, just loosen them.
- Jack up the car: Place the jack under the vehicle in the recommended spot, usually indicated in the owner’s manual. Jack the car up until the flat tire is around 6 inches off the ground.
- Remove the lug nuts: Use the lug wrench to remove all of the lug nuts and place them in a safe spot, such as in the hubcap or in your pocket.
- Remove the flat tire: Grasp the tire by the tread and pull it straight off of the wheelbase. Place it on its side, out of the way.
- Install the spare tire: Align the spare tire with the wheelbase and push it onto the hub. Tighten the lug nuts by hand.
- Lower the car: Carefully lower the vehicle with the jack until it’s on the ground. Then, use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts as much as possible in a star pattern.
- Finish tightening the lug nuts: Use the lug wrench to tighten each lug nut until it’s secure.
- Check the tire pressure: Use a tire gauge to check the air pressure in the spare tire. Make sure it’s at the recommended level.
- Put away your tools and flat tire: Stow the flat tire, jack, and lug wrench back in your trunk. Changing a flat tire can be intimidating, but with the right tools and these simple steps, you can do it safely and quickly.
Changing a flat tire can be intimidating, but with the right tools and these simple steps, you can do it safely and quickly.