Car owners need to be ready in case there is a flat tire. We all know how disappointing it can be to find yourself having to stop in the road because of a flat tire. This is why we have compiled some tips on how to change a flat tire.
Make sure you bring the important tools
Before you can fix a flat tire, you need to make sure your car is equipped with the necessary tools. These include a jack, lug wrench, fully inflated spare tire, and a vehicle owner’s manual. Every car is designed in a unique way and depending on the type of wheel, you may need to do something extra to replace your flat tire.
Find a safe location
As soon as you realize that you have a flat tire do not apply brakes abruptly. Slowly reduce your speed and park in a safe location where you can freely move and change the tire safely. If it is too late to move or if you are in the middle of a highway, you can simply move to the side. Put a barricade around your car to signal other drivers that you are on a stop for changing tires. Turn on your hazard lights or flashers to avoid other vehicles from bumping you.
Apply the parking brake
Don’t forget to apply the parking brakes so your car will not roll while you are changing the tires. Also apply the wheel wedges to secure the car in place. You can put the wedges in front of the back of the wheel. If you don’t have these, you can use a rock to prevent your car from rolling.
Remove the Hubcap
Use the flat end of your lug wrench to remove the hubcap. Generally, some vehicles have the same hubcap but for other vehicles, you might need another tool for the removal procedure. Once done, it is time to lose the lug nuts. Place the jack beneath the vehicle frame alongside the flat tire.
Raise the vehicle with the jack
You can raise the vehicle by using the jack so you can remove the wheel entirely. Place a small cut of wood under before attempting to raise your vehicle especially if you are on asphalt road. Unscrew the lug nuts and then remove the flat tire.
Install the spare wheel
Carefully mount the spare tire and tighten the lug nut. This will take a bit of strength and muscle so it is best if you have someone around to give you a hand. Nevertheless, you need to tighten as much as possible. Then you can lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts again. After that, you can lower the vehicle completely and start driving.