If you aren't a mechanic, changing a tire is never a good time. Flat tires always seem to happen during opportune times. The last thing you'd want to happen is for a flat to occur while you're traveling during the holidays. Most drivers have roadside assistance. However, during this time of year, the wait time may be longer than usual. It's important to know how to change your tire in case the unexpected happens. Changing your tire can potentially save you more time and money. Below we have given a few steps on how to change a tire to keep you prepared for your next road trip.
1. Pull over to a safe spot.
Try to find an area far from incoming traffic, which will give you enough space to work on your vehicle. Make sure your car is in park, and the emergency flashers are on.
2. Grab your spare tire, jack, and tire iron.
These items are usually located under the floorboard of your trunk.
3. Loosen the wheel lugs.
Grab the tire iron and use it to loosen each wheel lug on the flat tire. The wheel will be tight; it's okay to use a bit of force. Loosen each wheel lug by turning them counterclockwise. Do not completely remove them; just loosen them.
4. Lift your vehicle with the jack.
Once the lug nuts are loose, place the jack underneath your vehicle. Most vehicles usually have a plate underneath the car for the jack. Use a flash right to look under your car and consult your vehicle's owner's manual. Raise the jack until your vehicle above ground.
5. Remove the flat tire.
Remove the wheel lugs entirely and set them in a secure location. After, remove the flat tire.
6. Install the spare tire.
The most physically demanding part is placing the spare over the wheel stud. Once the tire is properly installed, screw each wheel lug back on. Screw them back on first, then use the tire ion to finish the job.
7. Lower your vehicle and tighten the lug nuts.
Once the tire is properly installed, lower the jack. Pull the jack away and tighten the lug nuts again. It's important to tighten the tire again because you'll be able to put more effort into it now that it's level on the ground.
If you need assistance, have your vehicle towed into Folsom Automotive Service.
Our tire experts would be happy to reinstall your tire quickly.
Click here to schedule an appointment or give us a call at 916-500-7974.