Flat tires are the worst, and they always come at the most inconvenient time. It’s important to know how to change a tire correctly and quickly, so you’re not stranded waiting for help.
You don’t have to be a car person to change a tire. It is easier than people think. Flat tires are almost impossible to miss. If it goes flat while you’re driving, there is no missing it. If you start driving with a flat, you’ll notice it immediately. Steering and accelerating becomes very difficult; you will also hear a flapping or grinding sound. When you identify a flat tire, pull over immediately to a safe and as far out of the way spot as possible.
Flat tires require basic tools and equipment. It is always best to keep these items in your trunk in case a flat tire happens. If you don’t have these items and you find yourself in trouble, you’ll need to call for roadside assistance. These items can be purchased at automotive stores, home improvement stores, and superstores.
- A spare tire (Most cars come with a spare tire, or donut, hidden in the trunk. It’s best to check.)
- Your owner’s manual (Every car has one. Keep it in your glove box for easy accessibility.)
- Wheel wedges
- Lug wrench or tire tool
- Car jack
- Tire pressure gauge
Changing a tire is quite easy, but you do need to follow these steps.
- Park in a safe and flat location.
- Turn the car off and read your owner’s manual to make sure there are no special instructions or procedures for your specific vehicle.
- Place wheel wedges in front of front wheels for a back tire change and behind back wheels for a front tire change.
- Pull the spare tire out of the trunk. Place in a safe spot and flat on the ground so it can’t roll away.
- Using the flat end of the lug wrench, remove the hubcap.
- The other end of the lug wrench is for the nuts.
- Turn each nut counterclockwise by a half turn. Do not take them off completely.
- Near the tire, there should be a flat spot in the car frame for the car jack to go. Jack the car up so the flat tire is six inches above the ground.
- Using the lug wrench, completely remove the nuts.
- Pull the tire off the car and lay it flat in a safe place.
- Place the spare tire on the vehicle in the same position as the flat tire.
- Using your hands, tighten the nuts into place as much as possible. Then use the lug wrench to tighten the nuts fully. Lean into the wrench to ensure they are secure.
- Lower the car onto the ground by releasing the jack.
- Put the hubcap back on the tire.
- Check the tire pressure on the spare tire before driving away. If it does not meet the requirements, drive to a gas station to fill the tire.
Once you have completed these steps, you are ready to get on your way. If you are driving on a spare tire that is a donut, you cannot drive over 50 mph. You will want to get a new tire as soon as possible to ensure the safety of your vehicle.
