It’s always a good idea to know how to change a tire. Relying solely on AAA, or local auto shops may not be the most reliable solution. You could be in an area with a weak cellphone signal, or possibly, your phone’s battery could be drained. Having the knowledge of changing a tire can come in handy in these situations, and saves your money on towing and repair costs.
Middle Country Automotive wants to ensure that you have all the information you need if you are ever in a situation where you cannot call for help and can handle the task on your own until you can get to the nearest mechanic. We are experts in all auto repair, auto inspection and brake repair services in Selden, NY 11784 and Centereach NY 11720.
Step 1
If you are on the road when you get a flat tire, immediately put on your hazard lights and pull to the side of the road. Be sure that you are as far away from oncoming traffic as possible so that you have a safe working area. Be sure to have your care in the park position and that your parking brake is one.
Step 2
In order to ensure your safety, place wooden blocks on the front of your front and back tires. This prevents the vehicle from moving around while you are working. Now, take out the jack and spare tire. Place the jack on the frame of your car near the tire that you will be replacing. If you are not sure on where to place the jack, you can always refer to your owner’s manual. Raise your car until you have enough room to change out the tire.
Step 3
Remove your hub cap and find a wrench that is the right size for the lug nuts. Turning counterclockwise, remove the nuts one by one. You can now remove the tire. Once you have removed the tire, you can put it under your car, so in the even the jack fails, your car will fall on the tire.
Step 4
Take your spare tire and as you are putting it on, make sure to align the rim with the wheel bolts. Tighten the lug nuts with your hand. Now, using your wrench alternate between tightening the lug nuts and DO NOT tighten one all the way. By doing so, you ensure that all lug nuts are tightened evenly.
Step 5
Start lowering your car. Once the car is completely on the the ground, remove the jack and tighten the lug nuts all way. Put the hub cap back on.
Step 6
Put the flat tire back into your car. Visit a mechanic as soon as you can to repair or replace the flat tire. Middle Country Automotive auto mechanics are experts in all tire repair services. Contact us today for more information.