Have you ever used a printer that ran out of ink? When a printer runs out of ink, your files won’t print out properly or won’t print at all. To fix the issue, you’ll need to change the ink cartridge. This is similar to replacing a flat tire with a new one, to keep your vehicle running correctly.
Since 2008, Big Valley Auto Auction has received numerous vehicles in different conditions. (We’ve also replaced plenty of ink cartridges.) Changing a flat tire is an essential skill for car owners, and we want to teach you how to do so.
In this article, you’re going to learn how to change a flat tire and the tools you need.
After reading this article, you’ll have the information needed to change a flat tire on your own.
What Tools Do I Need to Replace a Flat Tire?
Here are 4 tools you need to replace a flat tire.
- Car Jack: To lift the car off the ground
- Lug Wrench: To remove hubcap and loosen the lug nuts. (There is a pry bar on one end to remove the hubcap, and socket on the other to loosen the lug nuts.)
- Spare Tire: To replace the flat tire
- Wheel Chocks: To prevent the vehicle from rolling
How Do I Replace a Flat Tire?
Apply the Parking Brake
Ensure the car is in "Park" (or in gear if it’s a manual).
Place Wheel Chocks
Place them in front of or behind the tires to prevent the car from rolling. (If you’re changing the front tire, place the chocks behind the rear tires. If you’re changing the rear tire, put them in front of the front tires.)
Remove Hubcap
If your car has a hubcap, remove it to access the lug nuts.
Loosen The Lug Nuts
Use the lug wrench to turn the lug nuts counterclockwise. Loosen them about a quarter to half turn. Do not remove them completely yet.
Place the Jack Under the Car
Locate the correct jacking point under the car. This is usually marked in the owner's manual or on the car's frame.
Lift the Vehicle with the Jack
Crank the jack until the flat tire is about six inches off the ground. Ensure the car is stable as you lift it.
Completely Remove Lug Nuts
Finish unscrewing the lug nuts and keep them in a safe place.
Remove the Flat Tire
Pull the flat tire straight off the wheelbase.
Place the Spare Tire
Align the spare tire with the wheel bolts and push it onto the wheelbase.
Hand-Tighten the Lug Nuts
Screw the lug nuts back on by hand. Ensure they’re tight enough to hold the tire in place.
Slightly Lower the Vehicle:
Use the jack to lower the car until the spare tire just touches the ground
Tighten Lug Nuts with Lug Wrench
Use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern. This ensures even pressure on the wheel. Tighten them as much as possible.
Fully Lower the Vehicle
Lower the car completely and remove the jack.
Final Tightening
Tighten lug nuts one more time, to ensure they’re secure.
Put the Hubcap Back On
Place the hubcap back on the spare tire.
Check the Spare Tire’s Pressure
Ensure the spare tire is properly inflated.
Do I Know How to Replace a Flat Tire?
Putting a piece of tape on a flat tire isn’t good enough to fix the issue. You’ll have to replace it completely. Knowing how to do so will make your life as a car owner a bit easier, in the event you suffer a flat tire.
Whether you’re a dealer fixing up your vehicle’s tires to sell, or you’re a regular car owner, you can use this article as a step-by-step guide to replacing a flat tire.
If you’re an automotive dealer who just completed a tire change and are ready to sell your vehicle, click the button below to speak with our dealer registration specialist to get you registered.