How to Replace a Flat Tire with a Spare Tire

Getting a flat tire is an inconvenience we all hope to avoid, but knowing how to replace it with a spare tire is an essential skill for any driver. Replacing a flat tire with a spare requires a few simple steps to ensure a safe and efficient tire change.

Step-by-step guide to replacing flat tire with spare tire

When faced with a flat tire, it’s essential to know how to replace it with a spare tire to ensure your safety and get back on the road. Follow these step-by-step instructions to replace flat tire with a spare tire:

Step1: Find a Safe Location

If possible, move your vehicle to a safe and level area away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers of your situation.

Step 2: Gather Necessary Tools

Check if you have the required tools: a jack, lug wrench, and spare tire. These tools are typically located in the trunk or under the vehicle’s floor mat.

Step 3: Loosen Lug Nuts

Using the lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire. Turn them counterclockwise, but do not remove them just yet.

Step 4: Position the Jack

Consult your vehicle’s manual to identify the proper jacking points. Place the jack securely under the frame near the flat tire.

Step 5: Lift the Vehicle

Using the jack, raise the vehicle until the flat tire is completely off the ground. Ensure the vehicle is stable before continuing.

Step 6: Remove Lug Nuts and Flat Tire

Now that the vehicle is lifted, fully remove the loosened lug nuts and set them aside. Carefully take off the flat tire and set it aside as well.

Step 7: Mount the Spare Tire

Lift the spare tire onto the wheel base and align the holes of the spare tire with the wheel studs. Push the spare tire onto the studs until it’s firmly in place.

Step 8: Secure with Lug Nuts

Hand-tighten the lug nuts onto the wheel studs as much as possible. Make sure they are threaded correctly before proceeding to the next step.

Step 9: Lower the Vehicle

Using the jack, carefully lower the vehicle until the spare tire touches the ground, but not with the full weight of the vehicle.

Step 10: Tighten Lug Nuts

Using the lug wrench, tighten the lug nuts in a diagonal pattern. This ensures even tightening and helps prevent wheel wobbling. Continue tightening until the lug nuts are securely fastened.

Step 11: Lower the Vehicle Completely

Lower the vehicle all the way to the ground and remove the jack. Double-check that all lug nuts are tightened properly.

Step 12: Stow the Flat Tire and Tools

Place the flat tire, jack, and lug wrench securely in the trunk or designated storage area of your vehicle.

Step 13: Check Tire Pressure

Once you’re back on the road, make sure to check the tire pressure of the spare tire at your earliest convenience. Follow the recommended PSI specified in your vehicle’s manual.

Step 14: Repair or Replace the Flat Tire

Contact a tire professional to assess the damaged tire. They will advise whether the tire can be repaired or if a replacement is necessary.

Remember, a spare tire is designed for temporary use, so avoid driving long distances or at high speeds. Visit a tire shop as soon as possible to either repair the flat tire or purchase a new one to ensure your safety on the road.

By following these steps, you’ll be well-equipped to replace a flat tire with a spare tire efficiently and effectively. Always prioritize safety during the process and seek professional assistance when needed.

FAQ-About Replace a Flat Tire with a Spare Tire

What is a flat tire?

A flat tire is a tire that has lost its air pressure to its recommended level, causing the tire to sit closer to the ground, or in some cases, flat against the ground.

Can I change a flat tire by myself?

Yes, you can change a flat tire by yourself if you have the necessary equipment.

What equipment do I need to change a flat tire?

You will need a spare tire, a jack, a lug wrench, and your vehicle’s owner manual or a guide on how to change a tire.

What do I do if I don’t have a spare tire?

If your vehicle is equipped with run-flat tires, you should be able to drive on the flat tire to get to a safe location. If your vehicle doesn’t have run-flat tires, you can call roadside assistance for help or tow your vehicle to a nearby service station or tire shop.

How do I change a flat tire?

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to change a flat tire:

1. Get to a safe location that’s away from traffic and put on your hazard lights.
2. Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire, but don’t remove them yet.
3. Use the jack to raise the side of the vehicle with the flat tire. Refer to your owner’s manual or guide on how to change a tire for recommended jack positioning on your particular vehicle.
4. Remove the lug nuts from the flat tire and pull the tire off of the wheel hub.
5. Place the spare tire on the hub and put the lug nuts on by hand, tightening them as much as possible.
6. Use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts further, using a star pattern, until the wheel is secure.
7. Lower the vehicle onto the ground by using the jack and remove the jack.
8. Tighten the lug nuts once more, using a star pattern, as much as possible with the lug wrench.
9. Check the tire pressure on the new tire and inflate to the recommended level if necessary.
10. Replace the old tire with a new tire as soon as possible.

Is it safe to drive on a flat tire?

No, driving on a flat tire can cause damage to the tire and the wheel, and it can lead to losing control of the vehicle or a