A flat tire can happen to anyone, anywhere — on the way to work, on a weekend road trip, or even in your own driveway. While modern cars come with roadside assistance options, knowing how to change a flat tire yourself is an essential skill that can save time, money, and stress.
Whether you’re new to driving or haven’t faced a flat in years, this guide walks you through changing a tire step-by-step safely and efficiently, using tools you likely already have in your car.
What you’ll need
Before you start, make sure you have the following items in your vehicle:
- Spare tire (check pressure and condition regularly)
- Car jack
- Lug wrench or wheel brace
- Wheel chocks (optional, but highly recommended)
- Reflective vest or hazard triangle (for roadside safety)
Double-check that your spare tire is suitable for your car, especially if it’s a “donut” temporary spare — they’re typically rated for low speeds and short distances.
Step 1: Find a safe location
Safety is the first priority. If you get a flat tire while driving:
- Slow down gradually and move to a safe, flat area off the road, away from traffic.
- Turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers.
- Apply the parking brake and, if possible, place wheel chocks behind the tires to prevent rolling.
Avoid soft ground or steep inclines, as these can make jacking up the car unsafe.
Step 2: Loosen the lug nuts
Before raising the car, slightly loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire using the lug wrench.
- Turn counterclockwise to loosen.
- Don’t remove them completely yet — just break them free.
- If nuts are stubborn, use your body weight or gently rock the wrench to avoid injury.
Loosening the lug nuts first is easier than trying to do it with the car lifted, which can be dangerous.
Step 3: Position the jack
Check your car’s owner manual for the correct jack points. Placing the jack in the wrong spot can damage your vehicle.
- Slide the jack under the frame near the flat tire.
- Ensure the base is on firm, level ground.
- Begin lifting until the flat tire is about 15–20 cm off the ground, enough to remove it safely.
Step 4: Remove the flat tire
Once the car is lifted:
- Completely remove the loosened lug nuts and keep them in a safe spot.
- Gently pull the flat tire straight off the hub.
- Place it aside, out of the way of traffic if you’re roadside.
Take a moment to inspect the wheel hub and surrounding area for damage or debris — it’s a good habit for safety.
Step 5: Mount the spare tire
Now it’s time to install the spare:
- Align the spare with the wheel studs.
- Slide it onto the hub, ensuring it sits flush.
- Hand-tighten the lug nuts as much as possible to hold the tire in place.
Hand-tightening ensures the tire is seated correctly before final torque.
Step 6: Lower the car and tighten lug nuts
Carefully lower the car partially so the tire touches the ground but the full weight isn’t on it.
- Use the lug wrench to tighten the nuts in a star pattern (tighten one, then the opposite, then the next, and so on).
- This ensures even pressure and a secure fit.
- Once the car is fully lowered, give the nuts a final check.
Avoid over-tightening, which can damage the lug bolts.
Step 7: Check the spare tire pressure
Before driving off:
- Confirm the spare tire is inflated to the recommended PSI (found in your owner’s manual or inside the driver-side door).
- Adjust if necessary at a nearby service station.
Remember, temporary spares (“donuts”) are not meant for long distances or high speeds — drive cautiously and replace with a full-size tire as soon as possible.
Step 8: Clean up and store tools
After the flat is replaced:
- Put the flat tire and all tools back in your vehicle.
- Remove wheel chocks if used.
- Make sure nothing is left on the roadside.
Keeping everything organised makes your next tire change faster and safer.
Extra tips for a smooth tire change
- Practice in a safe environment: Changing a tire in your driveway once or twice builds confidence.
- Wear gloves: Protects your hands from grease and sharp objects.
- Keep reflective gear handy: Especially if you drive at night or on busy roads.
- Call for help if needed: If the flat is on a busy highway or the car won’t lift safely, roadside assistance is the safest option.
Knowing these extra tips can turn a stressful situation into a manageable task.
Changing a flat tire doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right tools, a bit of preparation, and a calm approach, you can handle most roadside flats safely and efficiently. Regularly checking your spare tire, jack, and lug wrench ensures you’re ready when the unexpected happens — keeping you on the road and stress-free.
If you are in Mentone, and looking for a car removal service, this is the best way to visit us.
100 Church St, Brighton VIC 3186
www.brightoncarremovals.com.au