subject: 5 Easy Steps To Change A Flat Tire [print this page] Being stuck in the middle of the road due to a flat tire is not the best experience. Knowing how to change a flat tire is therefore a must know. You do not have to wait for a mechanic who might overcharge you. Here are 5 steps on how to change a flat tire.
Things you need:
Heavy object like stone or concrete
Lug wrench
Tire jack
Spare tire
1.Look for a level surface far from traffic. Make sure your emergency flashers are on. Do not park on a hill or soft ground. Apply the parking brake or put your car in first or reverse gear. Support your front and rear tires with something heavy like a stone.
2.Remove the spare tire, the tire jack and the lug wrench. The tapered end of the lug wrench will help you remove the hubcap. Using the other end of the lug wrench, loosen the lug nets that hold the wheels on. Loosen the nuts but dont remove the lug nuts.
3.Find a safe place to place your jack so as to elevate the car. The jack should be in contact with the metal portion. It should be at a right angle to the ground. This should provide enough room to remove and replace the tire. Make sure to follow the manufacturers instructions on where to place the jack to prevent the car from falling off. Falling may cause damage to the car or harm you. Elevate the car till the wheel is off the ground then remove the lug nuts completely. They should be removed in a counterclockwise motion. If they are tough to turn, stomp on the wrench or use your body weight.
4.Remove the flat tire and replace it with the spare one. The spare tire should be placed under the vehicle just in case the jack fails the car falls on the flat wheel and therefore preventing injury. Line the spare wheels over the wheel studs. Screw the lug nuts onto the studs, making sure the tapered end of the nut is towards the wheel. Do not cross thread the lug nuts. Tighten the lugs on to the rim using your hands. Use the star pattern where you tighten the nuts, one nut across from the other. This ensures balance of the tire.
5.Lower the car using the jack back to the ground. Tighten all the lug nuts using the lug wrench and replace the hubcap. You are now ready to get back on to the road and drive off.
Its essential to make sure that your spare tire has sufficient air. Rotate your wheels regularly to prevent problems when changing the tire. If you can memorize the steps or have them at hand when on the road, the better, this will make changing the flat easier.
