Flat Tire
Flat tires are a common occurrence, so it is important to learn how to change a tire yourself. Changing a tire is a relatively simple process, but it is important to follow the proper steps to avoid making a mistake. Here are the steps on how to change a tire:
Secure Location
If you get a flat tire while driving, the first thing you should do is pull over to a safe place off the road. Turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.
Engage the parking brake
Put your car in park for an automatic transmission or first gear for a manual transmission. Then, set the parking brake to secure the vehicle. This will help prevent the car from rolling away while you are changing the tire.
Gather tools and spare tire
Locate the spare tire, jack, and lug wrench. The spare tire, jack, and lug wrench are usually located in the trunk of your car, but they may also be located under the floor mat in the cargo area.
Loosen lug nuts
Loosen the lug nuts using a lug wrench in a counterclockwise direction, but leave them slightly loose. This will make it easier to remove the flat tire once the car is raised.
Position the jack
Position the jack under the car at the designated lifting point, as instructed in the owner’s manual. This will help prevent the car from tipping over while you are changing the tire.
Lift the car
Use the jack to raise the car slowly and carefully until the flat tire is about 6 inches off the ground. Do not remove the tire until the car is securely supported by the jack.
Remove the lug nuts and flat tire
Jack up the car carefully until the flat tire is 6 inches clear of the ground. Do not remove the tire until the jack stands are in place.
Install the spare tire
Position the spare tire over the wheel bolts and screw it onto the hub. Hand-tighten the lug nuts until they are snug.
Lower the car and tighten lug nuts
Lower the car. Tighten the lug nuts in a cross-pattern. This ensures even pressure on the wheel.
Check the tire pressure
You should check the spare tire pressure to make sure it is safe to drive on. Reinflate the spare tire to the recommended pressure if necessary.
Put away the tools
Put the flat tire, jack, and lug wrench away in the trunk or the place where you found them. Be sure to check the spare tire pressure before driving.
Repair or replace the flat tire
It is important to remember that spare tires are not meant to be used for long periods of time. Take the flat tire to a qualified mechanic to be repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Driving on a flat tire can damage your car and make it unsafe to drive.
CONCLUSION
Always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for detailed instructions and safety tips on changing tire. However, if you are not comfortable changing the tire yourself, it is always best to call for roadside tire assistance or ask for help from a knowledgeable individual.