Knowing how to change a tire is an essential skill for any driver. Here’s a straightforward, step-by-step guide to help you replace a flat tire with a spare:
Locate Your Spare Tire
First, find where your spare tire is located. It could be in your trunk or under your car. Along with the spare tire, you’ll need a jack and a tool to remove the tire lugs. Some cars also require a specific key, which is a socket for your tire lugs.
Prepare Your Car
Start by putting your parking brake on to ensure the car doesn’t move. Then, loosen the lugs on the flat tire. Don’t remove them completely yet; just break the resistance.
Lift the Car
Position the jack under the pinch welds or the frame of the car. Lift the car until the flat tire is just off the ground.
Remove the Flat Tire
Once the car is lifted, remove the lugs completely and take off the flat tire. Attach the spare tire by placing the spare tire onto the hub. Put the lugs back on and tighten them by hand.
Lower the Car
Lower the car back to the ground using the jack. Once the car is on the ground, use your tool to tighten the lugs as much as possible.
Drive to a Repair Shop
Remember, the spare tire is only a temporary solution. Drive to a repair shop as soon as possible to get a proper tire installed.
By following these steps, you can safely replace a flat tire with a spare and get back on the road.
