Nothing throws a wrench in your day like the sudden thump-thump of a flat tire. But instead of panicking or waiting for roadside assistance, imagine confidently pulling over, grabbing your tools, and getting back on the road in no time. With a little know-how and a few easy steps, you can change a flat tire like a pro—and we’re here to show you how.
Step 1: Pull Over Somewhere Safe
At the first sign of a flat, slow down and carefully pull over to a safe location. Aim for a flat, firm surface away from traffic—never on grass, dirt, blind spots, or curves. If it’s nighttime, look for a well-lit area to work more safely. Turn off your engine, engage the parking brake, and switch on your hazard lights.
Step 2: Gather Your Tools and Supplies
You’ll need a few essentials to get the job done:
- Jack
- Lug wrench
- Spare tire
- Owner’s manual
- Wheel lock key (if you have wheel locks to prevent theft)
You might also find it helpful to have:
- Wheel wedges
- Tire pressure gauge
- Flathead screwdriver
- Portable tire inflator
- Flashlight (for nighttime)
- Gloves (to protect your hands)
Most of these tools can be found in a compartment under the rear cargo area—check your owner’s manual for specifics. It’s a good idea to keep these items, along with jumper cables and other emergency supplies, in your trunk or car storage.
Important: Some newer vehicles don’t come with spare tires. Instead, they may have run-flat tires or a spray sealant and inflator kit. In these cases, you will not be changing a tire. With run-flats, the tire’s reinforced sidewalls will allow you to drive for a short distance at a lower speed to a shop where you can get your tire replaced. If you have a spray sealant and inflator kit, follow those directions for the temporary tire repair, and again, drive to a place for a replacement.
Step 3: Loosen the Lug Nuts
Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts (turn counterclockwise), but don’t remove them yet. Do this while the car is still firmly on the ground for better leverage. If they’re on tight, you may need to use your body weight. If your lug nuts are hidden behind hubcaps, use a flathead screwdriver to pop off or unscrew the hubcaps. Always check your manual if you’re unsure.
Note: If you have wheel locks, you will need to use your wheel lock “key” (adaptor) to loosen the specialized lug nuts.
Step 4: Position the Jack
Find your car’s designated jack points—typically near the wheels under the frame—and place the jack on the metal portion of the car. Jacking up in the wrong spot can damage your vehicle or cause it to become unstable. If you have them, this is the time to put wedges or chock blocks behind the wheels for added support. If you’re lifting the front of the car, put the block behind the back tire. For lifting the back of the car, put the block in front of the front tire. Choose the opposite corner of where you’re going to lift.
Once the jack is in place, slowly raise the car until the flat tire is about an inch or two off the ground. Never crawl under the vehicle while it’s supported only by a jack. (Need a refresher on jacking up a car? Check out our blog on how to use a jack!)
Step 5: Remove the Lug Nuts and the Flat Tire
Now that the car is elevated, remove the loosened lug nuts completely. Keep them safe—an upturned hubcap works perfectly as a container. Give the flat tire a firm pull to remove it from the wheel hub.
Step 6: Put on the Spare Tire
Line up the spare tire with the wheel studs. Make sure the valve stem (where you add air) is facing outward toward you. Place the lug nuts back on, tightening them by hand to hold the spare in place.
Step 7: Lower the Vehicle and Tighten the Lug Nuts
Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground and remove the jack. Then, use the lug wrench to firmly tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross (star) pattern to ensure even pressure. Consult your manual if you’re unsure about the pattern.
Step 8: Check Your Tire Pressure
Use your tire gauge to check the spare’s pressure—and while you’re at it, check the other tires too. If needed, stop by a gas station for a quick top-off or use a portable air compressor if you have one handy. If you have nitrogen-filled tires, you’ll need to head to a shop that offers nitrogen.
Step 9: Pack Up Your Tools
Make sure you return all your tools and supplies to their proper storage locations, so you’ll be ready next time.
Step 10: Remember: The Spare Is Temporary
If you’re using a smaller “donut” spare, drive carefully. Stay under 50 mph and get your tire professionally replaced as soon as possible. Even if you have a full-sized spare, it’s still smart to replace it quickly and reset your vehicle’s emergency kit. It’s also a good idea to periodically check your spare’s condition and pressure. (You’ll find the recommended PSI in your owner’s manual).
How to Help Avoid a Flat Tire
While you can’t always prevent a flat, you can minimize your risk by following these tips:
- Inspect Your Tires Regularly: Check for signs of wear, punctures, and bulges.
- Maintain Correct Tire Pressure: Follow the recommended PSI found in your owner’s manual or inside the driver’s side door.
- Rotate Your Tires: Every 5,000 to 8,000 miles helps ensure even wear.
- Avoid Road Hazards: Steer clear of potholes, debris, and rough surfaces when possible.
- Don’t Overload Your Vehicle: Excess weight strains your tires and increases the risk of blowouts.
Finally, protect yourself and your vehicle with the right insurance for added peace of mind. Safe travels.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
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