1. Safety First!
* Find a safe, level location: Pull over as far off the road as possible, onto a level surface away from traffic. Avoid soft ground or inclines.
* Engage the parking brake: Firmly set the parking brake.
* Turn on hazard lights: Make sure your hazard lights are flashing to alert other drivers.
* Gather your supplies: Locate your spare tire (check its condition!), jack, lug wrench, owner's manual (for specific jack points and torque specifications), and gloves (recommended). If you have wheel chocks, use them behind the wheels opposite the flat.
2. Prepare the Vehicle:
* Locate the spare tire, jack, and lug wrench: These are usually located under the cargo area floor. Your owner's manual will show the exact location.
* Consult your owner's manual: This will specify the correct jacking points for your Suburban's model year. Using the wrong point can damage your vehicle.
3. Loosen the Lug Nuts:
* Use the lug wrench: Before jacking up the vehicle, slightly loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire. Turn them counterclockwise. Don't remove them completely yet; just break them free. This is much easier to do before the tire is off the ground.
4. Jack Up the Vehicle:
* Position the jack: Place the jack securely under the designated jacking point (consult your owner's manual).
* Raise the vehicle: Slowly and steadily raise the vehicle until the flat tire is a few inches off the ground. You only need enough clearance to remove and replace the tire.
5. Remove the Flat Tire:
* Unscrew the lug nuts: Completely unscrew the lug nuts and keep them together in a safe place (e.g., a container or inside the hubcap).
* Pull off the flat tire: Carefully pull the flat tire towards you and away from the vehicle.
6. Install the Spare Tire:
* Align the spare tire: Align the spare tire with the wheel studs.
* Push the spare tire onto the studs: Push the spare tire onto the wheel studs until it's flush against the hub.
* Tighten the lug nuts: Tighten the lug nuts by hand, ensuring they are snug.
7. Lower the Vehicle:
* Lower the jack slowly: Slowly lower the jack until the spare tire is firmly on the ground.
* Tighten the lug nuts further: Once the vehicle is on the ground, use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern (opposite nuts first, then the others) to ensure even pressure. Don't overtighten.
8. Stow the Flat Tire and Tools:
* Tighten the lug nuts again (after driving a short distance): After driving a short distance (about 10-20 miles), stop and check the lug nuts again. Tighten them further if needed. Refer to your owner's manual for the correct torque specifications.
9. Final Steps:
* Replace the jack and other tools: Put everything back in its proper place.
* Get your flat tire repaired or replaced: Spare tires are usually temporary and not meant for high speeds or extended use. Get your flat tire repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
Important Considerations for a Chevy Suburban:
* Weight: The Suburban is a heavy vehicle. Ensure the jack is properly positioned and stable to avoid it slipping or collapsing.
* Spare Tire: Suburbans often have smaller spare tires (often "donut" spares). These are designed for temporary use only and have speed and distance limitations. Check your owner's manual for these restrictions.
* Lug Nut Torque: Overtightening lug nuts can damage the wheel studs. Undertightening can cause the wheel to come loose. Use the correct torque specification found in your owner's manual.
If you are uncomfortable or unsure about any step, call for roadside assistance. It's always safer to have a professional handle the situation if you're not confident.
