1. Safety First!
* Find a safe, level location: Pull over as far from traffic as possible onto a level, stable surface. Avoid soft ground or inclines. Turn on your hazard lights.
* Engage the parking brake: Firmly engage your parking brake.
* Warn others: If you have passengers, ask them to exit the vehicle and stand away from the road and the vehicle.
* Gather your tools: Locate your spare tire, jack, lug wrench, and owner's manual (it often has specific instructions for your Ford SUV model). You may also want gloves and wheel chocks (to further secure the vehicle).
2. Prepare the Vehicle:
* Locate the spare tire: This is usually under the cargo area floor, or sometimes mounted underneath the vehicle. Your owner's manual will show you the location.
* Gather tools: Make sure everything is within easy reach.
* Loosen lug nuts: Before jacking up the vehicle, use the lug wrench to slightly loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire. Turn them counter-clockwise. Don't remove them completely yet – just break them free.
3. Jacking Up the Vehicle:
* Consult your owner's manual: This will indicate the correct jacking points for your specific Ford SUV model. Incorrect placement can damage your vehicle.
* Position the jack: Securely place the jack under the designated jacking point.
* Raise the vehicle: Slowly and steadily raise the vehicle until the flat tire is a few inches off the ground.
4. Removing the Flat Tire:
* Unscrew the lug nuts: 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 off the wheel studs.
5. Installing 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) 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 the 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: Securely store the flat tire, jack, and lug wrench.
* Check tire pressure: Check the pressure of the spare tire and inflate it to the correct pressure (check the sticker on the driver's side doorjamb or your owner's manual).
* Get your flat tire repaired or replaced: Spare tires are usually temporary and not designed for high speeds or extended use. Have your flat tire repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
Important Considerations:
* Spare tire type: Some Ford SUVs have full-size spares, while others have smaller temporary spares (often called "donut" spares). Temporary spares have speed and distance limitations – check your owner's manual.
* Lug wrench type: Familiarize yourself with your lug wrench before you need it. Some require more force than others.
* If you are uncomfortable or unsure about any step, call for roadside assistance.
This guide provides general instructions. Always refer to your Ford SUV's owner's manual for specific instructions and safety precautions. Your manual will provide crucial information tailored to your model.
