Getting a flat tire while on the road can be stressful. You will immediately feel a vibration or rumbling sensation and possibly a pull to one side or the other when your tire suddenly goes flat. Your first step is to stay calm and gain or maintain control of the vehicle.
Driving on a flat tire can damage your wheel, but stopping in traffic because of a flat tire can create a dangerous situation. Instead, reduce your speed, turn on your emergency lights, and pull to the roadside at a safe location.
But don't worry, stay calm, you've got this. Here's a step-by-step guide on what to do once you've found a safe spot and are off the road.
- Gather Supplies: You'll need the spare tire, car jack, and lug wrench, which is usually found in your car's trunk or under the back seat.
- Loosen Lug Nuts: Using the lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire, but don't remove them altogether.
- Jack Up the Car: Place the jack under the car's frame near the flat tire. Check your car's manual for the proper placement. Use the jack to lift the vehicle off the ground.
- Remove Flat Tire: When the tire is off the ground, remove the lug nuts and take off the flat tire.
- Mount the Spare: Put the spare tire onto the wheel studs. Replace and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
- Lower the Car: Use the jack to lower the car until the spare tire touches the ground. Tighten the lug nuts with the wrench in a star pattern to ensure even tightening.
- Double-Check: Finally, lower the vehicle completely, remove the jack, and give the lug nuts another round of tightening.
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Have your Tire Repaired or Replaced
Remember, spares are for temporary use, and you shouldn't drive on one for long distances or at high speeds. Once your spare is on and you're back on the road, use our free service scheduler to get your flat tire fixed or replaced.
