Changing a flat tire might seem intimidating, but it’s a valuable skill that can save you time, money, and stress—especially in areas with poor cell service where roadside assistance may not be available. With a little preparation and confidence, you can be back on the road in minutes.
Essential Tools to Keep in Your Vehicle
Before a flat tire happens, make sure you have the following:
- Tire jack (usually a scissor jack)
- Lug wrench/tire iron
- Spare tire or “donut”
- Flashlight
- Blanket or kneeling pad
- WD-40 or similar lubricant
- Your vehicle owner’s manual
Step 1: Locate Your Jack, Lug Wrench, and Spare Tire
Most vehicles store the jack and tools in the trunk, rear compartment, or under a floor panel. The spare tire may be:
- Under the rear cargo area
- Attached to the rear of SUVs or trucks
- Secured beneath the vehicle (accessed via the trunk)
- Always check your owner’s manual if you’re unsure where tools or the spare tire are located.
Step 2: Check the Spare Tire
Before jacking up the car, make sure your spare tire is in good condition and properly inflated. There’s nothing worse than changing a tire only to find the spare is flat too.
If you carry an emergency tire inflator or Fix-a-Flat can, check those too—you might be able to avoid a tire change entirely.
Step 3: Park Safely on Solid, Level Ground
Pull over to a flat, stable area. Avoid soft shoulders, mud, or steep inclines. Turn on your hazard lights and apply the parking brake.
⚠️Safety Tip: Never crawl under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Stay clear of the undercarriage at all times.
Step 4: Loosen the Lug Nuts
Use your tire iron to loosen (but don’t remove) the lug nuts on the flat tire. Turn counterclockwise (“lefty loosey”). If they’re stuck:
- Apply gradual pressure with your foot
- Spray with WD-40
- Use your body weight carefully for leverage
Step 5: Position the Jack
Most vehicles have jack points marked along the frame near the wheels. Line up the jack with the correct lift point (check your manual), and begin lifting the vehicle until the flat tire is just off the ground.
Avoid over-lifting—just high enough to slide the flat off and the spare on.
Step 6: Remove the Flat Tire
Carefully take off the loosened lug nuts and slide the flat tire off the bolts. Set the tire aside in a secure spot.
Step 7: Install the Spare Tire
Lift the spare and align it with the bolts. This can be awkward—consider sitting on a blanket or using your legs for leverage to help guide the wheel.
Bonus Tip: Use a blanket or tarp to stay clean and protect your clothes.
Step 8: Tighten the Lug Nuts by Hand
Once the spare is on, screw the lug nuts back on hand-tight. Do not rock the vehicle.
Step 9: Lower the Vehicle and Fully Tighten the Lug Nuts
Lower the jack slowly and remove it. Then, tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross (star) pattern using the tire iron to ensure even pressure and a secure fit.
Make them as tight as they were when you removed them—firm and snug.
Step 10: Pack Up and Drive Safely
Place the flat tire and all tools back in your vehicle
Make a note to replace or repair the damaged tire ASAP
If using a donut spare, drive cautiously and avoid high speeds or long distances
Final Tire Safety Tips
- Inspect tires regularly for wear and pressure
- Rotate tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles
- Replace old or worn tires to reduce the chance of a blowout
For more car care tips, visit our Resources Page or check out our YouTube channel.
St. Marys Auto Body is here to help with tire repair, wheel alignment, and expert advice. If you’re unsure about your vehicle’s condition, stop by or call us at (814) 781-1961.
