Here's a step-by-step guide:
1. Safety First!
* Find a safe, level location: Pull over as far off the road as possible onto a level, stable surface. Avoid soft ground or inclines. Turn on your hazard lights.
* Engage the parking brake: Firmly set the parking brake.
* Gather your tools: Locate your spare tire, jack, lug wrench, and owner's manual (for jack point locations). Gloves are also a good idea. If you have wheel chocks, use them to further secure the vehicle.
* Warn others: If possible, have someone stand a safe distance away to watch for traffic.
2. Prepare the Vehicle:
* Locate the jack points: Consult your owner's manual for the correct jacking points on your 2000 Ford Explorer. These are typically reinforced areas of the frame near the wheels. Do not jack up the vehicle on the pinch welds or body panels.
* Loosen the lug nuts: Before jacking up the vehicle, use the lug wrench to 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.
3. Jack Up the Vehicle:
* Position the jack: Carefully position 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.
4. Remove the Flat Tire:
* Unscrew the lug nuts: Completely unscrew the lug nuts and keep them together in a safe place (like the hubcap if you have one).
* Remove the flat tire: Carefully pull the flat tire towards you and off the wheel studs.
5. 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 studs until it's flush against the hub.
* Tighten the lug nuts: Hand-tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern (opposite nuts first, then the ones in between).
6. Lower the Vehicle:
* Lower the jack: Slowly lower the jack until the spare tire is resting on the ground.
* Tighten the lug nuts: Once the vehicle is on the ground, use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts fully in a star pattern.
7. Stow the Flat Tire and Tools:
* Secure the flat tire: Place the flat tire and tools back in their designated storage areas.
8. Check Tire Pressure:
* Check the spare tire pressure: Check the pressure of your spare tire and inflate it to the proper pressure (check your owner's manual or the sticker on the driver's side doorjamb). Spare tires are often "temporary" spares and have lower maximum inflation pressures.
9. Drive Safely:
* Drive cautiously: Remember that spare tires are usually temporary and may have speed restrictions. Check your owner's manual for details. Drive to a tire shop as soon as possible to have the flat tire repaired or replaced.
Important Considerations for a 2000 Ford Explorer:
* Jack Point Location: Absolutely consult your owner's manual for the correct jack points. Using the wrong point can damage your vehicle.
* Spare Tire Type: Determine if your spare is a full-size or temporary spare. Temporary spares have speed and distance limitations.
* Lug Nut Torque: Over-tightening lug nuts can damage the studs. Use the correct torque specification found in your owner's manual.
This guide provides general instructions. Always refer to your owner's manual for specific information related to your 2000 Ford Explorer. If you are still unsure, seek professional assistance.
