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 slopes.
* Engage the parking brake: This is crucial to prevent the car from rolling.
* Turn on hazard lights: Alert other drivers to your situation.
* Gather your equipment: You'll need your spare tire (check its inflation!), lug wrench, jack, and owner's manual (it shows the jack points). Gloves are also a good idea.
* Warn others: If you have passengers, have them get out of the car and stand well away from the road and the vehicle.
2. Prepare the Vehicle:
* Locate the jack points: Consult your owner's manual for the specific jack points on your 1997 Dodge Intrepid. These are reinforced areas of the frame designed to support the weight of the car. Do NOT jack up the car on any other part of the body.
* Loosen the lug nuts: Before jacking up the car, use the lug wrench to slightly loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire. Do not remove them completely yet. Turn them counter-clockwise. It's much easier to do this while the tire is still on the ground.
3. Jack 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 car is stable and won't shift.
4. Remove the Flat Tire:
* Remove the lug nuts: Now completely unscrew the lug nuts and keep them together in a safe place (e.g., a hubcap or a container).
* Pull off 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). This ensures even pressure.
6. Lower the Vehicle:
* Lower the jack: Slowly lower the jack until the spare tire is firmly on the ground.
* Tighten the lug nuts: Now, use the lug wrench to fully tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern. Do this firmly but don't overtighten.
7. Final Steps:
* Stow the flat tire and tools: Put the flat tire, lug nuts, jack, and wrench back in their designated storage areas.
* Check tire pressure: Check the air pressure in your spare tire and inflate it to the proper pressure (check the sticker on your driver's side doorjamb or your owner's manual).
* 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:
* Consult your owner's manual: This is the best source of information specific to your 1997 Dodge Intrepid. It will show the exact jack points and provide important safety instructions.
* If you're unsure, call for help: If you're uncomfortable changing a tire yourself, call a roadside assistance service or a friend for help. Safety should always be your top priority.
This detailed guide should help you. Remember safety is paramount! If you have any doubts at all, call for assistance.
