Here's a general guide, but remember to prioritize safety:
1. Safety First:
* Find a safe, level location: Pull over as far off the road as possible onto a firm, level surface. Avoid soft ground or inclines.
* Engage your parking brake: This is crucial to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
* Turn on your hazard lights: Warn other drivers.
* Gather your supplies: Locate your spare tire, jack, lug wrench, and owner's manual (for specific instructions). Gloves are also a good idea.
2. Preparing the Vehicle:
* Locate the spare tire: This is usually under the vehicle, sometimes in a compartment requiring a tool to release it. Your owner's manual will show you the location.
* Locate the jack and lug wrench: These are typically stored with the spare tire.
3. Loosening the Lug Nuts:
* Before jacking up the vehicle: Use the lug wrench to slightly loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire. Don't remove them completely yet – just break them free. Turn them counter-clockwise.
4. Jacking Up the Vehicle:
* Locate the jack points: Your owner's manual will show the correct jack points for your Trailblazer. These are usually reinforced areas of the frame near the flat tire. Never jack up the vehicle on any other part of the body.
* Position the jack: Securely place the jack under the designated jack point.
* Raise the vehicle: Slowly and steadily raise the vehicle until the flat tire is a few inches off the ground. Ensure the vehicle is stable and won't tip.
5. Removing the Flat Tire:
* Completely remove the lug nuts: Now unscrew the lug nuts completely and keep them together in a safe place.
* Remove the flat tire: Pull the flat tire straight off the wheel studs. It may require a little effort.
6. Installing the Spare Tire:
* Align the spare tire: Align the spare tire with the wheel studs.
* Push the spare tire onto the studs: Push it firmly until it's seated.
* Tighten the lug nuts: Hand-tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern (opposite nuts first, then the ones in between) to ensure even pressure.
7. Lowering the Vehicle:
* Lower the jack slowly: Carefully lower the vehicle using the jack until the spare tire is firmly on the ground.
* Tighten the lug nuts: Use the lug wrench to fully tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern.
8. Final Steps:
* Stow the flat tire and tools: Put the flat tire, jack, and lug wrench back in their designated storage locations.
* Check the lug nuts again: After driving a short distance, check the lug nuts again to ensure they remain tight.
* Get your flat tire repaired or replaced: Spare tires are typically temporary and may have speed and distance limitations. Consult your owner's manual for these limitations.
Important Considerations:
* Different Spare Tire Types: Your Trailblazer might have a full-size spare, a temporary spare (often smaller and with speed limitations), or a tire inflation kit. The procedure will vary slightly depending on the type of spare you have.
* Wheel Locks: If your Trailblazer has wheel locks, you'll need the special key to remove and install the wheel.
This is a general guide. Always refer to your owner's manual for precise instructions specific to your Chevy Trailblazer's year and model. If you are uncomfortable performing this task yourself, call a roadside assistance service or a mechanic.
