1. Prepare your vehicle and materials:
- Engage the parking brake.
- Use parking blocks or chocks to secure the wheels on the opposite side of the vehicle you're working on.
- Gather the necessary tools and equipment, including a jack, lug wrench, spare tire, and vehicle owner's manual.
2. Remove the flat tire:
- Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheel with the flat tire, but don't remove them completely.
- Position the jack beneath the vehicle in a stable spot near the flat tire. Consult your vehicle's owner's manual for specific jacking points.
- Raise the vehicle just until the flat tire is a few inches off the ground.
- Remove the lug nuts and pull the flat tire straight toward you to remove it.
3. Mount the spare tire:
- Position the spare tire onto the lug nut studs so that the rim holes align with the studs.
- Replace the lug nuts and tighten them by hand as far as you can.
- Lower the vehicle until it's almost, but not all the way, back on the ground.
- Tighten the lug nuts using the lug wrench in a star pattern, moving around the lug nuts several times each until they are secure.
- Lower the vehicle the rest of the way so it rests on the ground.
4. Secure the spare tire:
- Double-check that the lug nuts are snug and fully tightened before moving your vehicle.
5. Store the flat tire and jack:
- Place the flat tire securely in your vehicle's trunk.
- Return the jack and lug wrench to the proper storage location in your vehicle.
Remember, vehicle models and spare tire locations may vary. If you're unsure about any step, it's best to refer to your vehicle's owner's manual or seek professional assistance.
