So you’re stuck on the side of the road with a flat tire. We’ve all been there! Whether you’re a new driver or an expert, flat tires happen, and there are few things worse than being stranded with nowhere to turn. Luckily, changing a tire doesn’t have to cause a panic. It’s a relatively easy process, and one you can certainly do yourself – as long as you’ve got all the necessary tools. Here is a list of things you’ll need, and a few easy-to-follow directions to get your flat tire fixed and ready to ride.

Tools

  • Jack
  • Tire iron
  • Fully inflated spare tire
  • Vehicle owner’s manual

Step 1:

Use your tire iron to loosen the nuts holding the wheel to the hub. To do this, place the tire iron on a lug nut, then place a foot on the tire iron and using your body’s weight, loosen the nut. Chances are it won’t come off easily, so you may need to put a bit of effort into it. Always remember: “Righty-tighty; Lefty-loosey!”

Step 2:

Now comes the tricky part. You’ll need to use your diamond jack to lift up your car, but you’ll need to place it in just the right spot for it to be effective. Most vehicle frames will have a slot next to each tire where a jack will fit snugly. Place your jack right beneath that and twist the lever, which will open the jack. You may need to use the tire iron to turn your jack, depending on what your manufacturer has provided. Once you start twisting the jack, your car should start rising. The car should be high enough that the tire does not touch the ground.

Step 3:

Using your hand, unscrew the remaining lugnuts. The old tire will slide right off.

Step 4:

Match up the holes of your new tire’s rim with the bolts on your vehicle. Lift up the tire and place it on. Have someone hold the tire in place as you tighten the nuts by hand, then lower the car gradually using the jack.

Step 5:

Finish off tightening the lug nuts using your tire iron, taking care to tighten them in a diagonal pattern, which ensures even tightening.

Step 6:

And you’re ready to ride!

 

You got this! But if you don’t, your Ed Payne Service Department can help! Schedule an appointment for an inspection, or visit one of our valleywide dealerships to view our latest selection of new and used models from brands like Chevy, Ford and VW!