You may have to use force, and that’s ok. Using the lug wrench, turn the lug nuts counterclockwise until you break their resistance. Consult your owner’s manual for proper hubcap or wheel cover removal procedures. This will work for most vehicles, but some hubcaps need a different tool to come off. Use the flat end of your lug wrench to remove the hubcap. If your lug nuts are exposed, you can skip ahead to Step 6. If your vehicle has a hubcap covering the lug nuts, it’s easier to remove the hubcap before lifting the vehicle with the jack. Just be sure they’re large enough to stop the car from rolling. If your flat tire is at the front, put the wheel wedges behind the rear tires.īricks or large stones will work just as well as “real” wheel wedges. If you’re changing a rear tire, place these in front of the front tires. Wheel wedges go in front of or behind the tires to further ensure the vehicle doesn’t roll while you fix the flat tire. This will minimize the possibility of your vehicle rolling. Once stopped, always use the parking brake when preparing to replace a flat tire. To avoid an accident, turn them on as soon as you realize you need to pull over. Your hazard lights or “flashers” will help other drivers see you on the side of the road. Make sure to consult your owner’s manual and review their specific steps on how to change a flat tire for your vehicle 2. While driving on a flat risks ruining your rim, replacing a rim is better than being hit by an inattentive driver. Keep moving (slowly) until you find a safer spot. Never attempt to change your tire on a narrow shoulder near oncoming traffic. Also, straight stretches of road are better than curves because oncoming traffic is more likely to see you. Level ground is good because it will prevent your vehicle from rolling. An empty parking lot would be an ideal place. Slowly reduce speed and scan your surroundings for a level, straight stretch of road with a wide shoulder. FIND A SAFE LOCATIONĪs soon as you realize you have a flat tire, do not abruptly brake or turn.

Small cut of 2'圆” wood to secure the jack

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