How to Change a Flat for Waco, Texas Drivers

Everyone has a flat tire at some point in their driving life but don’t worry, the car manufacturers know that flats are a fact of life and have placed all the tools you need on-board so you can fix it quickly. In case you have never done it before, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you:

1. If you sense a tire has gone flat, safely pull off to the side of the road on the flattest and firmest ground you can find.
2. Engage your emergency flashers.
3. Once in a safe location, have all passengers exit the vehicle and have them stand away from the vehicle.
4. Put the car in park and set the emergency brake. If you have a manual transmission, put the car in gear so it can’t roll.
5. Since you are going to be jacking your car up in the air, consider placing a brick, large rock or log behind one of the undamaged tires to prevent the vehicle from rolling. This is especially important if you’re on an incline.
6. Locate your spare tire and tools. In a sedan, these items are typically in the trunk; in an SUV, they are often mounted in the back or underside. If you can’t find your tools and spare, consult your owner’s manual.
7. Remove the hubcap if you need to get to the lug nuts.
8. Lug nuts need to be loosened a turn or so using the tire tool while the wheel is on the ground. Don’t be afraid to put muscle into it. Some people will even use their body weight on the tool to get it to turn.
9. At this point, you’re ready to jack your car up. Slide the jack under your car frame and position it on a secure spot on the frame. Your owner’s manual can assist you in finding the best spot. Then slowly turn the jack until the tire leaves the ground.
10. Completely remove the lug nuts form the flat tire and place them in your pocket or hubcap for safe keeping.
11. Remove the tire by pulling straight away from the car. It may be heavy so do this slowly and with care. If the tire is stuck, give it a kick with your foot but be careful and don’t lose your balance.
12. Lift the spare tire onto the screw studs, lining up the screws with the holes in the tire. Then screw on the lug nuts until they are hand tight.
13. Then lower the car with the jack just enough so that the tire doesn’t spin.
14. Using your tire tool, tighten the lug nuts in an alternating pattern. Turn them to the right to tighten and put some strength into it!
15. Lower the vehicle all the way and remove the jack.
16. Reinstall the hubcap if you have one.
17. Put everything back in your car and drive carefully to the nearest tire shop or head home.

For additional information and details for changing your vehicle’s flat tire, reference the owner’s manual for your vehicle. There are plenty of Youtube videos that you may find helpful also.

Did you like this article, and want to read more about taking care of your car? If so, we recommend reading about the Oil Change Services and Parts Specials at Mike Terry Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram RAM.