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How to Change a Tire

Changing a tire can be a scary task, especially if you are on the side of the road or have never changed one. Making sure that you have the proper tools and following these few simple steps will make this a lot simpler.

What you will need-All of these items should be stored in the trunk:

1.    A car jack-these are manufactured for and are standard with your vehicle
2.    A tool kit-a tool kit that contains a jack rod and a wheel nut wrench comes with the car and is close to the car jack.
3.    A towel-used to kneel on, wipe hands, or wheel.
4.    A spare tire-standard with the car
5.    Tire Blocks-You can buy a set of tire blocks (that usually are connected by a rope or chain) at any auto supply or discount store.

When you realize you have a flat tire, pull off of the road as quickly and safely as possible. Try to pull off onto a flat area of the shoulder and it is best to get as far over on the shoulder as possible. Before getting out of your car, lift the hood. This is just a safety precaution. It signals to emergency professional and other drivers that you are having problems.

Next, turn on the hazard warning lights, and then put the car into Park for automatic transmissions or into Reverse if you have a manual transmission, then pull on the emergency brake. Now, turn off the engine. Have passenger(s) get out of the car and stand safely away from traffic.

Your first step is placing the wheel blocks in front of and behind the tire that is diagonal to the flat tire. This is a very important safety precaution. Now you are ready to change your flat tire.

Remove the wheel cover. Some of them snap right off with a little urging. Use the jack rod from the tool kit to help, being careful not to scratch the cover. Next, place the jack directly under the jack-up point on your car. Be sure to locate the jack-up point closest to the flat. These are relatively easy to find by running your hands underneath the side of the car. You need to make sure that the jack and the jack-up point on the car are properly aligned. They should fit together perfectly.

Loosen the bolts with the wheel nut wrench. Now, jack the car up so that the tire is completely off of the ground, being careful not to jack it too high.

Lay down your towel next to the flat tire. This will help keep your clothes from being soiled and torn. Use will use this later to wipe your hands. Using the wheel wrench, remove the bolts from the wheel, being sure to put them in a safe place.

After removing the flat, carefully place the spare tire on the car. Replace the bolts and tighten them with your fingers. Next, take the wheel wrench and alternate tightening the bolts until they are all on securely and evenly. Slowly lower the vehicle until the spare touches the ground. Use the wheel wrench to tighten the bolts one more time.

You now need to put the flat into the spare tire holder. Remove the wheel blocks and place them in the trunk with the tool kit and the car jack.

You should not drive on the spare tire any longer than is necessary. Find the nearest car repair, dealership, or tire outlet to repair or mend your flat tire.

Most people should be able to change a tire with little difficulty. If you are unsure call a professional to take care of this minor car repair. If you have road side assistance coverage on your insurance or from another source, they will be able to handle this for you.

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