How to Replace a Flat Tire Properly
Changing a flat tire is a necessary skill for all drivers. Everyone can get a flat tire at the most unexpected time. But when you are prepared and have enough knowledge to do this yourself, this task won’t be as intimidating to you. Of course, you can always call a local towing company to come and help you, but having some DIY skills won’t hurt.
The compulsory tools you should have in your car’s trunk are a fully inflated spare tire, jack, lug wrench, and the vehicle owner’s manual. In addition, you can also have a flashlight, rain poncho, knee pads, gloves, and wheel wedges.
After you notice you have a flat tire, your first job is to take your vehicle to a safe place away from the main flow of traffic. Remember, it should be on an even and straight road. An empty parking lot, for instance, would be the ideal place for this. Your next step is to turn on the hazard lights and apply the parking brake.
Next, you should put the wheel wedges in front or behind the tires depending on where the flat tire is. Now remove the hubcap and loosen the lug nuts with the wrench only to hand tight. Your next task is to place the jack underneath your car on its designated spot. Read the car’s manual to be able to get the job done safely. After you do that, raise the vehicle a few inches off the ground and unscrew the lug nuts completely with the lug wrench.
Now, you can remove the flat tire and place the spare one according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Mount the same or the new lug bolts and tighten them by hand. You can lower your car but not completely, now you can tighten the lug nuts entirely. Now, you can lower it completely and remove the jack. Do not forget to replace the hubcap and stow the tools away after you clean them.
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