Preparation:
• Park your car on a level, stable surface and apply the parking brake.
• Turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.
• Locate the spare tire, jack, lug wrench, and chocks (if available) in your trunk.
Using the Jack:
Step 1: Loosen the Lug Nuts
- Before jacking up the car, use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire by about a half turn.
Do not remove them completely at this point.
Step 2: Position the Jack
- Place the jack under the car's frame, near the flat tire.
- Make sure it is stable and won't slip.
- Consult your vehicle's owner manual for the specific jacking points.
Step 3: Jack Up the Car
- Slowly and carefully operate the jack to lift the car until the flat tire is about six inches off the ground.
- Do not overextend the jack. Stop as soon as the tire clears the ground.
Step 4: Remove Lug Nuts and Take Off Flat Tire
- Now that the car is raised, use the lug wrench to completely remove the lug nuts and take off the flat tire.
Step 5: Place the Spare Tire
- Position the spare tire on the lug bolts and press it gently to ensure it aligns properly.
Step 6: Put the Lug Nuts Back On
- Partially screw the lug nuts back onto the bolts by hand.
Step 7: Lower the Car
- Slowly lower the car using the jack until it's just touching the ground.
Step 8: Tighten Lug Nuts
- Use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts as much as you can.
Step 9: Lower the Car Completely
- Carefully lower the car all the way down.
Step 10: Fully Tighten Lug Nuts
- Once the car is back on the ground, use the lug wrench to fully tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even tightening.
Step 11: Put Away Tools and Spare Tire
- Stow away the jack, lug wrench, spare tire, and any other tools you used.
Step 12: Drive Slowly
- Since the spare tire is usually narrower and shallower than the regular tires, drive slowly and avoid sharp turns until you can get the flat tire repaired or replaced.
Note:
- If your vehicle has a hubcap that covers the lug nuts, you may need to remove it to access the lug nuts.
- Tighten the lug nuts as much as possible by hand before lowering the vehicle completely.
- Always remember to prioritize your safety and use caution when working with heavy equipment like the jack.
