Preparation:
1. Park your vehicle on a level, stable surface.
2. Engage the parking brake and keep the transmission in "park(automatic transmission) or gear(manual transmission).
3. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers of your stopped position.
Locating the Spare Tire and Tools:
4. Open your trunk or designated storage area to access the spare tire, lug wrench, jack, and any other necessary tools.
Loosening the Lug Nuts:
5. Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the affected wheel. Turn them counterclockwise until they are loose but not removed completely. (DO NOT REMOVE YET)
Placing the Chocks:
6. Place the wheel chocks behind the tires that are diagonal to the affected tire. This will prevent the vehicle from moving while you are changing the tire.
Lifting the Vehicle:
7. Position the jack under the designated lifting point near the affected wheel. Refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for the exact location.
8. Slowly raise the vehicle using the jack until the affected tire is off the ground. (DO NOT LIFT IT TOO HIGH)
Removing the Lug Nuts and Flat Tire:
9. Completely remove the lug nuts and carefully take off the flat tire.
Placing the Spare Tire:
10. Align the spare tire with the wheel studs.
11. Start threading the lug nuts by hand to ensure proper alignment.
12. Tighten the lug nuts snugly with the lug wrench. Do not overtighten them.
Lowering the Vehicle:
13. Slowly lower the vehicle using the jack.
14. Remove the jack from under the car and safely store it.
Tightening the Lug Nuts:
15. Use the lug wrench to firmly tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern. This helps distribute the pressure evenly.
16. Double-check that all the lug nuts are tightened securely.
Lowering the Vehicle Fully:
17. Allow the jack to lower the vehicle fully to the ground.
Storage:
18. Place the damaged tire and tools back into your vehicle's designated storage areas.
Test Drive:
19. Drive slowly for a short distance(a few mile) and listen for any unusual noises or vibrations.
20. After driving a few miles, re-tighten the lug nuts one more time to ensure they are secure.
Remember that changing a tire can be physically demanding, so if you are uncomfortable with the process or have any doubts about safety, it is best to seek professional assistance.
