How-to Change a Flat Tire

Even if you always change your tires on a regular basis, and avoid glass and sharp objects on the road, just do not say that it will not happen to you.  Statistics show that an average person will have a flat tire about 5 times in their life.  Knowing how to change it is not only proof of your self-sufficiency, but a skill every man and woman should acquire.    

 
First, it is a must to ensure you have everything for such an emergency.

The spare tire is the most important.  Most cars already have one, but if it is a used car check and see if it is still there and in good condition.  Find the designated area for the spare tire in the driver’s manual of the car.  A proper spare tire is well inflated; the tire pressure of the spare should be checked monthly.    
A lug wrench and a jack are also needed.  There are three options for jacks, the scissor jack, hydraulic jack, and the trolley jack.  The scissor jacks are most common in cars and are hand operated.  The hydraulic and trolley jacks are great for cars weighing over 2 tons. 

The next few items are optional but will make changing the tire easier: a flashlight, to see in the dark, tire blocks, gloves, and a tarp. 

Pull the car safely to the side of the road and out of traffic’s harm.  Turn on the hazard lights to warn other drivers. 

Now pull out the tools and spare tire.  Before changing the tire, place tire blocks beside the tire opposite to the one that is flat to keep the car from rolling. 

Next step is to remove the hub cap, not all cars have them. Grab each side and pull away from the tire and towards you. 

Then grab the lug wrench and loosen the lug nuts (remember “lefty loosey, righty tighty”). This may be a tough task so feel free to your entire body weight by stepping on the lug wrench. Don’t remove them yet. 

Now it is time to jack up the car.  Read the driver’s manual and find out where the proper place is to put the jack.  Then place it there and raise the jack until it hits the frame of the car.  Ensure placement, then continue raising the jack until the tire is about 6 inches off the ground. 

Take off the lug nuts now, and place them in a safe spot.  Pull the tire straight towards you to take it off. 

Now place the spare tire and lug nuts on, do not tighten them yet.  Lower the jack.  Do this slowly so the car does not hit the ground abruptly and cause damage. 

Next take the lug wrench and tighten the lug nuts.  The proper way to do this is to start with one and then go to the opposite one.  Most cars have 5 lug nuts and the trick is the 5 point star pattern to tighten them.  The reason for this is to make sure the tire is on even and balanced. 

Before driving off, put the flat tire and the tools in the trunk. Make sure not to leave anything behind.  Now pull the gloves off and give yourself a pat on the back and pull safely back into traffic.  The spare tire is meant to last up to 50 miles at a 50 mph speed.  The next stop should be the nearest tire shop.   

Every situation is different, such as where and when the flat tire occurs.  So be cautious and use the best judgment as possible.  If unable to change the tire alone call a towing company for help.  Do not accept help from strangers because it puts your safety and the car at risk. 

One the most reliable towing and road side service company is AAA.  The service is free when you pay an annual fee to become a member.

Safe Driving.