Getting a flat tire can be frustrating, but changing it is a straightforward process if you’re prepared. With the right tools and a little know-how, you can get back on the road quickly and safely. Here's how to change a tire step-by-step.
Find a Safe Location
As soon as you notice a flat, slow down and pull over to a safe, flat area away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights and apply the parking brake.
Gather Your Tools
You’ll need a spare tire, jack, lug wrench, and your vehicle’s owner’s manual. These are usually found in the trunk or under a storage panel.
Loosen the Lug Nuts
Before lifting the car, use the lug wrench to turn the lug nuts counterclockwise. Loosen them slightly, but don’t remove them yet.
Lift the Car with the Jack
Place the jack under the vehicle’s designated jacking point (usually marked along the frame). Raise the car until the flat tire is about 6 inches off the ground.
Remove the Flat Tire
Fully unscrew and remove the loosened lug nuts, then carefully pull the flat tire straight off the wheel bolts.
Mount the Spare Tire
Line up the holes in the spare tire with the wheel bolts and slide it into place. Push it in until it sits flush against the hub.
Tighten the Lug Nuts by Hand
Put the lug nuts back on and tighten them by hand in a crisscross pattern. Don’t fully tighten yet—just enough to hold the tire in place.
Lower the Car and Fully Tighten
Carefully lower the car back to the ground with the jack. Once it’s fully lowered, use the lug wrench to tighten the nuts as firmly as possible, again in a crisscross pattern.
Check the Tire Pressure
If you have a tire pressure gauge, check the spare tire’s pressure to make sure it’s safe to drive on. Many spares have a higher PSI than regular tires.
And you're done! Drive cautiously and avoid high speeds—most spare tires (especially donuts) are meant for short-term use only. Replace it with a full-size tire as soon as possible, and make sure to have your flat repaired or replaced.