Auto Repairs: How to Change a Flat Tire
Submitted by
staff on Wed, 01/27/2010 at 7:57pm.
If you find yourself driving along and suddenly you get a flat tire, don't panic! Here is a step-by-step guide to changing a flat tire so you can be on your way without breaking a sweat.
The first step is to pull off to the side of the road and park on a flat, level surface. Make sure your car is in park, with the emergency parking brake on. It's a good idea to put your hazard lights on and even open your hood, so other cars know you are repairing your car.
Remove the hubcap, if necessary, and loosen the lug nuts with the tire iron. Place the car jack under the car, and jack the car up. Make sure to leave enough room for the flat tire to come off and the new tire to go on.
Fully remove all the lug nuts from the tire and set them in a safe place so they don't get lost and they don't roll away. The flat tire should come slip off the wheel studs, and just set it aside once the wheel is fully off. Place the spare tire on the wheel studs and make sure the air valve is facing out to ensure the wheel is facing the right direction.
Replace the lug nuts and tighten them accordingly. It is best to tighten lug nuts in a star pattern, never tightening two neighboring lug nuts consecutively. Lower the car on the jack and remove the car jack carefully, once the weight of the car is now fully on the tires. Tighten the lug nuts once more and then replace the hub cap.
Changing a flat tire is a simple yet crucial auto repair skill to learn, and it is simple. While this auto repair can seem daunting, a little practice and a little research will prepare you to perform this repair when you need it.
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