Changing Tires on the Go
There are few things more frustrating than experiencing a flat tire on the road. It can be especially distressing if you’re in an area with low visibility or don’t have access to a nearby mechanic. This is where knowing how to change your tire comes in handy. With a bit of practice, changing a tire can be a simple task that can have you back on the road in no time.
Before we dive into the process, it’s important to mention that tire-changing should only be attempted on a level surface and well away from traffic. It’s also advisable to wear brightly colored clothing or set out reflective triangles to ensure that other drivers can see you.
To start, locate your spare tire, jack, and wrench. Most cars include these in the trunk or under the floor mat. Once you’ve found these tools, you’re ready to begin.
First, use the wrench to loosen your lug nuts. Do not remove them completely just yet – simply loosen them enough to the point where you’re able to unscrew them by hand once the car is elevated.
Next, position the jack under the car in the proper location. Your owner’s manual will be able to provide detailed instructions on where to place the jack for your specific vehicle. Once you’ve double-checked the placement, begin pumping the jack until the car’s tire is off the ground.
Now, remove the lug nuts and take off the flat tire. Place it off to the side where it won’t roll away. Take your spare tire and place it onto the wheel hub. Make sure the holes in the wheel align with the studs.
Once your spare tire is in place, begin screwing the lug nuts back on. Don’t worry about tightening them with the wrench just yet – we’ll save that for after the car is lowered.
Lower your vehicle back to the ground using the jack. Once it’s down, use the wrench to tighten the lug nuts as much as possible. It’s important to use a diagonal pattern to avoid putting too much pressure on one side of the wheel.
Finally, check the tire pressure on your spare tire. If it’s too low or too high, adjust accordingly before getting back on the road.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully changed your tire. Now that you’re feeling like a pro, it’s important to note that your spare tire is a temporary solution. It’s recommended to have a professional mechanic inspect your flat tire as soon as possible to determine if there was any damage to the wheel or tire itself.
Having to change a tire on the side of the road can be a stressful experience, but with practice, it can become almost second nature. Remember to always practice caution when working on your vehicle and if there’s any doubt as to your abilities, don’t hesitate to call for backup.
Happy travels!