How to Change a Flat Tire: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Change a Flat Tire: A Step-by-Step Guide

Getting a flat tire can be frustrating—and it often happens at the worst possible time. But with a little knowledge and preparation, changing a flat tire doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Whether you’re on your way to work or taking a road trip, knowing how to change a tire is a basic but essential life skill.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of changing a flat tire step by step. Bookmark it, print it, or save it in your glove box—you never know when you’ll need it!

🧰 What You’ll Need

Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools in your vehicle:

• Spare tire (fully inflated)

• Jack

• Lug wrench (tire iron)

• Vehicle owner’s manual

• Flashlight (if it’s dark)

• Wheel wedges or heavy objects (like bricks)

• Tire pressure gauge (optional but helpful)

🛑 Step 1: Find a Safe Location

As soon as you notice a flat, slow down and pull over to a safe spot. Look for:

• A flat, level area (avoid hills)

• A wide shoulder or parking lot

• Space away from traffic

Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.

🧱 Step 2: Secure the Vehicle

Once you’re safely parked:

• Engage the parking brake.

• Place wheel wedges in front of or behind the tires opposite the one being changed to prevent the vehicle from rolling.

🔧 Step 3: Loosen the Lug Nuts

Before lifting the car:

• Use the lug wrench to turn the lug nuts counterclockwise.

• Loosen them slightly—do not remove them completely yet.

• If they're tight, use your foot for extra leverage.

🪜 Step 4: Lift the Vehicle with the Jack

• Refer to your owner’s manual for the correct jack point near the flat tire.

• Position the jack securely under the vehicle and raise the car until the flat tire is about 6 inches off the ground.

🔁 Step 5: Remove the Flat Tire

• Unscrew and remove the loosened lug nuts.

• Pull the flat tire straight off the wheel bolts and lay it flat on the ground to prevent rolling.

🆕 Step 6: Mount the Spare Tire

• Line up the holes in the spare tire with the wheel bolts.

• Push the spare onto the hub.

• Hand-tighten the lug nuts.

📉 Step 7: Lower the Vehicle and Tighten the Lug Nuts

• Lower the car using the jack until the tire touches the ground.

• Use the lug wrench to fully tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern for even pressure.

✅ Step 8: Check Your Work

• Ensure all lug nuts are tight.

• Stow away the flat tire and tools.

• Check the air pressure in the spare tire if you have a gauge (or get to a service station ASAP).

🚨 Bonus Tip: Drive Carefully

Most spare tires (especially “donuts”) are not designed for long distances or high speeds. Drive cautiously and get your original tire repaired or replaced as soon as possible.

Final Thoughts

Changing a flat tire is a manageable task for most drivers. With the right tools and a little know-how, you can get back on the road safely. Still unsure or feeling unsafe? Don’t hesitate to call Mr.Quickpick Roadside Assistance.