How to Change a Flat Tire

Statistics and Importance

• Average Experience: The average American will experience five flat tires over their motoring lifetime.
• Knowledge Gap: 1 in 5 American drivers doesn't know how to change a tire.

Essential Tools

1. Jack
2. Lug Wrench
3. Spare Tire
4. Owner's Manual (consult for specific recommendations)

Steps to Change a Tire

Before You Start

• Safety First:
  • Turn on emergency flashers.
  • Slow down and find a safe, level place to stop.
  • Set the parking brake to prevent rollaway.
  • Have passengers exit the vehicle.

Removing the Flat Tire

1. Remove Hubcaps:
   • Use a flat-headed tool, or a special tool if required (consult owner's manual).
2. Loosen Lug Nuts/Bolts:
   • Loosen before jacking up the car, but don't remove them completely.

Jacking Up the Car

• Types of Jacks: Familiarize yourself with the type and location via the owner's manual.
• Jack Point:
  • Use the recommended jack point on the car's frame, not the body.
• Safety:
  • Jack up the car enough to remove the tire, keep body parts away from underneath.

Installing the Spare Tire

1. Remove Flat Tire:
   • Finish loosening and remove lug nuts, store safely.
   • Pull the flat tire off.
2. Attach Spare Tire:
   • Likely a smaller temporary tire or 'donut'.
   • Hand tighten lug nuts followed by a quarter turn with wrench.

Finishing Up

• Lower the Car:
  • Do this slowly until jack slides out easily.
• Tighten Lug Nuts:
  • Tighten in a star pattern until snug and evenly tight.

Important Considerations

• Temporary Spare Tires:
  • Not for long-term use.
  • Maximum 50 mph speed and 100 miles in distance.
  • Replace or patch ASAP.