How to Change a Flat Tire

When you know how to change a flat tire, you can skip calling a tow truck and quickly get your vehicle to a service center. Once you have the proper tools and a firm understanding on how to perform this repair, you’ll be back on the Carrollton road in no time.

Tools You Need

Having the following items in your car will prepare you in the event of a flat:

• Lug Wrench
• Jack
• Owner’s Manual
• Fully Inflated Spare Tire

It’s important to check your spare regularly to ensure it is inflated to your manufacturer’s recommended PSI. These additional tools are also helpful to have handy, especially if you find yourself on the side of the road at night:

• Flashlight
• Rain Poncho
• 2″x6” Wood to Secure the Jack
• Gloves
• Wheel Wedges

Steps for Tire Repair

Follow these steps to repair your flat tire:

1. Find a safe location to park your vehicle, preferably a level stretch of road with a wide shoulder.
2. Turn on your hazard lights to alert others to your situation.
3. Set the parking brake to prevent rolling, even when on level ground.
4. Insert the wheel wedges for stability, either in front of the front tires if you’re changing a rear tire, or behind the rear tires when you’re changing at the front.
5. Place the jack beneath the frame. Look for a section of exposed metal, and follow the instructions in your owner’s manual.
6. Set a small cut of 2×6” wood beneath the jack to prevent it settling, then start to lift. Never place any part of your body under the vehicle.
7. Unscrew the lug nuts. They are easy to unscrew by hand once loose.
8. Grip the tire treads and pull gently towards you to remove the flat. Set it on its side to prevent rolling.
9. Mount the spare on the lug nuts, then tighten them by hand until they are all on.
10. Lower the vehicle slightly and tighten the lug nuts with a wrench.
11. Bring the vehicle to the ground.
12. Replace the hubcap. If it does not fit, stow it with your flat.
13. Check the pressure of the spare to make sure it’s safe to drive on. Remember, spares are meant to be temporary and shouldn’t be driven on at high speeds.
14. Drive to a service center.

Need More Assistance? Contact Scott Evans Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

Our service department is here to answer your all your automotive questions. Contact us today if you need additional service help like determining why your check engine light is on and when you should rotate your tires, or come into our dealership in Carrollton today! For more features like this, take a look at our guide to why you should always choose OEM parts over aftermarket versions.

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