Before You Begin:
* Safety First: Find a safe, level location away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights. Engage your parking brake firmly.
* Gather Your Supplies: You'll need your spare tire (check its pressure!), lug wrench, jack, owner's manual (for jack points and torque specifications), and possibly gloves. A wheel chock for the wheel opposite the flat is also a good idea.
* Note: The Alero's owner's manual is your best resource for specific information about your vehicle's jacking points and safety precautions. Refer to it throughout this process.
Steps:
1. Locate the Spare Tire and Tools: These are usually located in the trunk.
2. Prepare the Vehicle: Chock the wheel diagonally opposite the flat tire to prevent rolling.
3. Loosen the Lug Nuts: Use the lug wrench to slightly loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire. Important: Do this *before* you jack up the car. It's much easier to loosen them while the tire is on the ground.
4. Locate the Jacking Point: Consult your owner's manual for the correct jacking point for your Alero. It's typically a reinforced area of the frame near the flat tire. Never jack up the car on any other part of the vehicle.
5. Raise the Vehicle: Position the jack securely under the designated jacking point and carefully raise the vehicle until the flat tire is a few inches off the ground. Make sure the car is stable.
6. Remove the Lug Nuts: Completely unscrew the lug nuts and keep them together in a safe place (e.g., inside the hubcap).
7. Remove the Flat Tire: Pull the flat tire towards you and off the wheel studs.
8. Install the Spare Tire: Align the spare tire with the wheel studs and push it onto the studs.
9. Tighten the Lug Nuts: Hand-tighten the lug nuts, ensuring the spare tire is flush against the hub.
10. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle using the jack.
11. Tighten the Lug Nuts (Again): 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 ones in between). Do not overtighten.
12. Stow the Flat Tire and Tools: Put the flat tire, lug wrench, and jack back in their proper places.
13. Check the Lug Nuts: After driving a short distance, check the lug nuts again to ensure they are still tight.
14. Get Your Tire Repaired or Replaced: Spare tires are typically temporary and should not be used for extended periods or at high speeds. Get your flat tire repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
Important Considerations:
* Spare Tire Type: Your Alero might have a full-size spare or a space-saver spare. Space-saver spares are smaller and have speed and distance limitations. Check your owner's manual for details.
* Wheel Lug Wrench: If you're struggling to loosen or tighten the lug nuts, you may need a longer or more powerful lug wrench.
* If you are uncomfortable performing this task, call a roadside assistance service or a local mechanic. Your safety is paramount.
This is a general guide. Always refer to your Alero's owner's manual for the most accurate and safe procedure.
