Flat tires can be a frustrating and inconvenient experience for any driver. But with a few basic tools and some knowledge, changing a flat tire can be a quick and easy process. Here are all the steps you should follow when replacing a flat tire (with a spare):
Step 1: Find a Safe Location
If you experience a flat tire while on the road, try to find a safe and level location to change the tire. Move your vehicle to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights to make other drivers aware of your situation.
Step 2: Gather Supplies
You will need a few basic tools to change your tire, including a spare tire, jack, lug wrench, and a wheel chock. You can find these tools in the trunk of your car or under the floor mat in the trunk. Make sure to check that the spare is in road-worthy condition and ready for use.
Step 3: Loosen the Lug Nuts
Using the lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire by turning them counterclockwise. Do not remove them completely at this point.
Step 4: Jack Up the Car
Place the jack in the appropriate location on the car and begin to raise the car until the flat tire is not in contact with the ground. Be sure to consult your owner's manual for the proper jacking points.
Step 5: Remove the Lug Nuts and Flat Tire
Remove the lug nuts completely and carefully pull the flat tire off the wheel hub. Place the flat tire away from the car to prevent it from rolling away.
Step 6: Mount the Spare Tire
Align the spare tire with the wheel hub and carefully slide it onto the hub. Tighten the lug nuts until they are tight.
Step 7: Lower the Car and Tighten the Lug Nuts
Use the jack to lower the vehicle back down to the ground. Use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts as much as possible in a star pattern.
Step 8: Double Check Everything
Check that the lug nuts are tight and ensure that the spare tire is fully inflated. Put away all of your tools and return the flat tire and jack to the trunk of the car.
Changing a flat tire is a skill that every driver should know. With a bit of practice, you can change a tire quickly and get back on the road safely. Once you have your spare tire on, don't forget to visit a local tire shop for a full-on tire repair or replacement. After all, a spare is only a temporary solution.
Please visit Just Automotive for all your tire-related needs!