What to Do When You Get a Flat Tire

Getting a flat tire is never fun, but it happens to everyone at some point. Learning how to change a flat tire is easier than you might think. You can safely swap out your flat on the road in no time with the right tools and a step-by-step approach. Below, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, regardless of whether you’re at home or stuck on the side of the highway.

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Stay Safe: What to Do Before Changing a Tire

Safety should be your top priority before you start changing tires. Follow these steps to ensure you and your vehicle stay protected:

• Pull Over to a Safe Spot: Find a flat surface away from traffic, like a parking lot or a wide shoulder. Avoid hills or uneven ground.
• Turn On Your Hazard Lights: Hazard lights alert other drivers that you’re stopped and give you extra visibility.
• Engage the Parking Brake: Set the emergency brake to prevent your vehicle from rolling.
• Use Wheel Wedges: If you have them, place wheel wedges or large rocks behind the tires to keep the car from moving. 

These precautions create a safer environment before you start working on your tire. 

Essential Tools You Need to Change a Tire

Make sure you have the right tools on hand before you begin. Having these essentials will make changing a spare tire much easier:

• Spare Tire: Check that your spare is properly inflated before use.
• Lug Wrench: This tool loosens and tightens the lug nuts.
• Car Jack: You’ll need a jack to lift your vehicle off the ground.
• Owner’s Manual: Your manual provides important details, including where to put the jack when changing a tire. 

Stock up on these tools before you need them. Visit our store or shop online to browse Fleet Farm tires and tools and ensure you’re always prepared for the road.

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

Follow these steps to change a tire and get back on the road safely: 

1. Loosen the Lug Nuts

Before lifting the car, use a lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire. Turn them counterclockwise, but don’t remove them completely yet.

2. Where to Put the Jack When Changing a Tire

Check your owner’s manual to find the correct jacking point for your vehicle. Placing the jack in the wrong spot can damage your car.

3. Lift the Car and Remove the Flat Tire

Use the car jack to lift the vehicle until the flat tire is a few inches off the ground. Fully unscrew the lug nuts and carefully remove the tire.

4. Install the Spare Tire and Secure the Lug Nuts

Align the spare tire with the wheel bolts, then slide it onto the hub. Hand-tighten the lug nuts as much as possible.

5. Lower the Car and Tighten Lug Nuts Securely

Slowly lower the car back on the ground. Once the tires touch the ground, use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern for even pressure.

6. Check the Spare Tire Pressure

Make sure the spare is properly inflated before driving. If it’s low, drive carefully to the nearest air pump or service station.

Take a few extra precautions to ensure a safe drive once your spare tire is securely in place:

• Drive Cautiously: Spare tires, especially compact ones, aren’t designed for long distances or high speeds. Stick to under 50 mph and avoid sudden braking or sharp turns.
• Check Your Tire Pressure: Make sure the spare tire is properly inflated if you haven’t already.
• Get Your Regular Tire Repaired or Replaced: Spare tires are temporary solutions. Schedule a tire replacement as soon as possible. 

Need new tires? Make a service appointment at Fleet Farm to get back on the road with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can You Replace a Tire Yourself?

Yes! Most drivers can change a tire independently with the right tools and a little know-how. Just follow the step-by-step guide above and always prioritize safety. 

How to Change a Tire Step by Step?

See our step-by-step guide above for details, but here are the basic steps:

• Loosen the lug nuts before lifting the car.
• Find the correct jack placement and lift the vehicle.
• Remove the flat tire and install the spare.
• Lower the car and tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern.
• Check tire pressure before driving.

What’s the Safest Way to Change a Tire?

Safety first! Make sure to:

• Park on a flat, stable surface away from traffic.
• Turn on the hazard lights and engage the parking brake.
• Use wheel wedges to prevent rolling.
• Follow proper jack placement to avoid vehicle damage.

How to Remove a Car Tire?

To safely remove a car tire:

• Loosen the lug nuts with a lug wrench. Don’t remove them fully just yet.
• Lift the car using the jack at the correct jacking point.
• Fully unscrew the lug nuts and slide the tire off. 

Get New Tires at Fleet Farm

If your tire is beyond repair, it’s time for a replacement. Check out tires at Fleet Farm to find top-quality tires you can rely on. We carry a wide selection of durable, high-quality tires from various brands that ensure reliable performance on the road.

Need assistance with installation? Schedule a tire service appointment at Fleet Farm to install your new tires professionally.

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