Here are the steps to change a flat tire:
- Find a safe location to pull over. Make sure the area is flat and away from traffic.
- Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
- Apply the parking brake to prevent the car from rolling.
- Apply wheel wedges to keep the car from moving.
- Remove the hubcap or wheel cover using a lug wrench.
- Loosen the lug nuts by turning them counterclockwise with the lug wrench.
- Use a jack to lift the car off the ground. Place the jack under the car frame near the flat tire.
- Remove the lug nuts and the flat tire.
- Mount the spare tire on the wheel studs and tighten the lug nuts by hand.
- Lower the car back to the ground and tighten the lug nuts with the lug wrench.
- Replace the hubcap or wheel cover.
- Check the tire pressure of the spare tire and adjust if necessary.
- Put the flat tire, jack, and lug wrench back in the trunk.
- Have the flat tire repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
It is important to refer to the owner’s manual for the specific steps on how to change a flat tire for your vehicle. Temporary spare tires are not designed for long distances or high speeds, so drive cautiously until you can visit a tire technician. Changing a tire can take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes, but it is beneficial to practice changing a tire in your garage or driveway to ensure you are ready to handle this situation if it ever happens to you.
