How to Change a Flat Tire - PPC Asia Corporation

Changing a flat tire is a useful skill that can save you time and money. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you safely change a flat tire.

1. Find a Safe Location

As soon as you realize you have a flat tire, do not abruptly brake or turn. Slowly reduce speed and find a level, safe area away from traffic, such as a parking lot or a straight stretch of road with a wide shoulder.

2. Turn on Hazard Lights

Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers that you are having an issue.

3. Apply the Parking Brake

Once you are parked safely, apply the parking brake to prevent your car from rolling.

4. Gather Your Tools

Retrieve the necessary tools from your vehicle’s trunk. Typically, you will need:

Jack
Lug wrench
Spare tire
Vehicle owner’s manual

5. Prepare the Car

Place wheel wedges in front of or behind the tires to ensure the vehicle does not roll. If you do not have wheel wedges, a heavy object like a brick can work.

6. Remove the Hubcap or Wheel Cover

If your vehicle has a hubcap or wheel cover that covers the lug nuts, use the flat end of your lug wrench to remove it.

7. Loosen the Lug Nuts

Use the lug wrench to turn the lug nuts counterclockwise. Do not remove them completely yet. It may require some force to break them free.

8. Lift the Vehicle with the Jack

Consult your owner’s manual for the correct placement of the jack. Typically, it goes under the frame of the car near the flat tire. Raise the vehicle until the flat tire is about six inches off the ground.

9. Remove the Lug Nuts and the Flat Tire

Now fully remove the lug nuts and keep them in a safe place. Gently pull the flat tire towards you until it’s completely free from the hub.

10. Mount the Spare Tire

Align the spare tire with the lug bolts and push it into place. Hand-tighten the lug nuts as much as possible.

11. Lower the Vehicle

Use the jack to slowly lower the vehicle until the spare tire is just touching the ground but not bearing the full weight of the car. Tighten the lug nuts with the lug wrench, turning them clockwise in a star pattern to ensure even pressure.

12. Fully Lower the Vehicle

Lower the vehicle completely and remove the jack. Use the lug wrench to ensure all the lug nuts are as tight as possible.

13. Replace the Hubcap or Wheel Cover

If your vehicle had a hubcap or wheel cover, put it back on.

14. Store the Flat Tire and Tools

Place the flat tire, jack, and tools back into your vehicle’s trunk.

15. Check the Spare Tire’s Pressure

If you have a tire gauge, check the pressure of the spare tire. Drive carefully and have the flat tire repaired or replaced as soon as possible.

Additional Tips:

Regularly check the condition of your spare tire to ensure it’s properly inflated and in good condition.

Practice changing a tire in your driveway or garage to become familiar with the process.

Consider carrying additional safety items in your vehicle, such as a flashlight, gloves, and a rain poncho, in case you need to change a tire in adverse conditions.