Changing a flat tire is a skill that every driver should have. Regardless of the size of the puncture, driving on a flat tire is unsafe and can cause further damage. Here’s a step-by-step tutorial on how to change a flat tire and replace it with the spare tire in your car trunk.
Parking and Preparation
First, ensure that your car is parked on a level, flat, and firm ground. Put your car in park and firmly engage the handbrake to hold the car in place. Then, open the trunk and remove the plastic tray covering the spare tire.
Removing the Spare Tire
Next, take out the tools and unscrew the center cap holding the spare tire in place. Lift the spare tire out of the trunk using your arms, not your back. The jack can be found in the trunk, slightly expanded. Twist the end of it counterclockwise to release the jack from its position.
Using the Jack
Slide the jack under the car at the specified lift point, identified by two dents in the ridge along the bottom side of the car. Lift the jack until it contacts the car but don’t lift the car yet. Use the tire iron to loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire, but do not remove them completely.
Replacing the Tire
Take the jack crank and connect it to the jack, then start lifting the car until the flat tire is completely off the ground. Use the tire iron or your fingers to remove the lug nuts, ensuring you start with the top ones and work your way down. Carefully remove the flat tire and replace it with the spare tire, ensuring it is securely positioned on the hub.
Finishing Up
Tighten the lug nuts by hand and lower the car using the jack. Once the car is on the ground, use the tire iron to further tighten the lug nuts. Finally, stow the flat tire in the trunk, secure the jack, and replace the tools. Remember that the spare tire is temporary and should be replaced with a full-size tire as soon as possible.
Changing a flat tire is a straightforward process, but it’s crucial for every driver to know how to do it. By following these steps, you can safely and efficiently replace a flat tire with a spare, getting back on the road in no time. Happy and safe driving!
What should I do if I have a flat tire?
First, make sure you’re parked on level ground and safely secure your vehicle. Then, proceed to change out the flat tire for the spare tire in your trunk.
How do I change the spare tire?
Here are the steps to change your spare tire: 1. Park on level ground and engage the parking brake. 2. Access the spare tire and tools from the trunk. 3. Use the jack to lift the car, remove the lug nuts, replace the flat tire with the spare, and lower the car back down. 4. Tighten the lug nuts and stow the flat tire and tools back in the trunk. Remember that the spare tire is temporary and should be replaced with a full-size tire as soon as possible.