How to Change a Flat Tyre
Use this step-by-step guide if the need for a tyre change arises:
- First, it’s important to make sure your vehicle is parked both away from traffic and on a flat surface.
TIP: You will want to use your hazard lights, or flares if there is heavy traffic. - Then, place bracing material (such as pieces of wood or bricks) behind and in front of a tyre that will not be lifted to prevent rolling and increase stability.
- Next, you can use your vehicle’s owner’s manual to locate your spare tyre and jack.
- Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual to ensure that the jack is placed properly to prevent damage to your car.
- Remove any hubcaps or centre covers so you can access the lug nuts.
- Start jacking the car up while keeping pressure on the ground (without lifting the car completely).
- Use the lug wrench to turn the lug nuts counter clockwise to loosen them.
- After making sure the jack is stable, jack up the car enough for you to slip the tyre off with ease.
- Fit the spare tyre on the hub and place the lug nuts in the correct positions.
- Tighten the lug nuts with your wrench, this time turning clockwise.
TIP: Make sure the lug nuts are tight but don’t use too much force. This may dislodge the vehicle from the jack. - Lower the jack.
- After driving for a few kilometres, it’s a good idea to stop and make sure the lug nuts are still tight.