How to change a flat tire
If you got a flat tire in the middle of nowhere, or even your garage, would you know what to do? Knowing how to change a flat tire is a skill that’s gone by the wayside, but as long as vehicles have tires, it’s a skill worth learning so you can be ready for an emergency.
This is a simple, handy guide to changing a tire and it starts.
Tools to change a flat tire
Store these tools in the trunk of your vehicle at all times:
- Jack
- Cross-shaped lug wrench
- Pry bar or flathead screwdriver
- Spare tire
Find a safe place
If you get a flat tire while you're driving, make sure you're driving, make sure you're safely pulled over and that your vehicle is not blocking traffic. If you have reflector cones, lay them out.
Once you're in a safe spot and you've got your tools, you're ready to change a tire.
Remove the wheel cover (if you have steel wheels)
Removing your wheel cover is similar to removing the lid off a can of paint. Use a flathead screwdriver and pry it against the wheel until it pops off.
Get out your spare tire, secure your vehicle, and loosen the lug nuts slightly
Make sure to block your wheels at the opposite side of the flat tire with bricks, rocks, or wood to prevent your vehicle from rolling. Use your lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts, but do not remove them. If you have aftermarket wheels, you’ll need to find the lug key that goes with your wheel fasteners.
Jack up your vehicle
If you have a hydraulic jack, insert the handle and pump up and down. With a scissor jack, insert the wrench or rod and crank it.
Remove your flat tire
Finish taking the lug nuts off with your hand. Put your hands on each side of the flat tire and pull it towards your body. Your flat should slide along the lug bolts until it is free. Roll the tire to the back of your vehicle.
Lift your spare onto the lug bolts and replace the lug nuts
Use caution to lift the spare into place on the lug bolts. Use your wrench to secure the lug nuts into place.
Lower your vehicle and tighten the lugnuts
Crank your jack in the opposite direction to bring your vehicle back down to the ground entirely. Tighten your lug nuts as much as possible with your lug wrench.
Put your wheel cover back on
Use your hands instead of a wrench to avoid denting your wheel cover or hub cap. Pat the cover into place with your palm.
You did it!
Now, as soon as you can, visit a Kal Tire service centre or schedule an appointment online to have your flat tire repaired or replaced. We offer complementary repair service on all tires purchased at Kal Tire along with free tire rotations, road hazard protection, lifetime balancing, and tire inflation. Read our customer care plan for more information.
