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.
* Engage parking brake: Firmly set your parking brake.
* Turn on hazard lights: Warn other drivers.
* Gather your equipment: Locate your spare tire, jack, lug wrench, and owner's manual (for specific jack points). Gloves are also recommended.
* Consider safety triangles or flares: If you're on a road with limited visibility, use these to further warn oncoming traffic.
2. Prepare the Vehicle:
* Locate the jack points: Consult your owner's manual for the designated jack points on your Trailblazer. These are usually reinforced areas of the frame. Do not attempt to jack the vehicle up from any other point.
* Loosen 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.
3. Jacking Up the Vehicle:
* Position the jack: Carefully 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.
4. Removing the Flat Tire:
* Remove lug nuts: Now completely unscrew the lug nuts and keep them together in a safe place (e.g., inside the hubcap).
* Remove the flat tire: Carefully pull the flat tire towards you and off the wheel studs.
5. Installing the Spare Tire:
* Align the spare tire: Align the spare tire with the wheel studs.
* Push onto the studs: Push the spare tire onto the studs until it's flush against the hub.
* Tighten lug nuts: Hand-tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern (opposite nuts first, then the ones in between) to ensure even pressure.
6. Lowering the Vehicle:
* Lower the jack: Slowly and steadily lower the jack until the spare tire is resting on the ground.
* Tighten lug nuts: Once the vehicle is on the ground, use the lug wrench to fully tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern.
7. Final Steps:
* Stow the flat tire and tools: Place the flat tire, jack, and lug wrench back in their designated storage locations.
* Check lug nuts: After driving a short distance, re-check the lug nuts to ensure they remain tight.
* Get your flat tire repaired or replaced: Spare tires are usually temporary and may have speed restrictions. Get your flat tire repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
Important Considerations:
* Spare tire type: Check your owner's manual to determine the type of spare you have (full-size, temporary/donut). Temporary spares have speed and distance limitations.
* Jack type: Ensure you are using the correct jack for your Trailblazer. Using the wrong jack can be dangerous.
* Lug wrench size: Use the correct size lug wrench to avoid damaging the lug nuts.
* If you are uncomfortable or unsure about any step, call a roadside assistance service or a qualified mechanic.
Remember, safety is paramount. If you're unsure about any part of this process, it's always best to seek professional help. Your owner's manual is your best resource for specific instructions tailored to your 2003 Chevy Trailblazer.
