Driving along, you suddenly hear repetitive sounds that resemble loud thuds. Panicked, you realize one of your tires just went flat. This is a common scenario on roads and highways everywhere. The good news is with the right tools, you can change a deflated tire. Auto repair technicians share which ones are needed and how to put on your spare.

What Tools You Need to Change a Tire

Spare Tire

The most important tool you’ll need is the spare tire. Most vehicles come with one, but be sure to check before a tire blowout occurs. The tire should be completely filled with air and be ready for installation. Auto repair specialists suggest referring to your owner’s manual to ensure the spare is properly inflated.

Jack

The jack is used to lift the vehicle up high enough off the ground to remove the damaged tire and replace it with the spare. There are various models on the market. If your car or truck didn’t come with one, you can purchase a jack at local auto parts store. A sales technician can suggest one that’s appropriate for your vehicle’s weight.

Lug Wrench

You will use the lug wrench to remove the lug nuts from the tire. It’s a long metal tool with a circular-shaped socket. The enclosures come in various sizes to fit different sized lug nuts. Lug wrenches with longer handles provide more leverage and force when removing the lug nuts.

What You Need to Know About Changing Tires

It’s better to make the change on level ground for more stability. After securing the emergency parking brake, gather all your tools so that they’re close by. First, remove the hubcap with the pry bar located at the other end of the lug wrench. Loosen up the lug nuts by turning the lug wrench counter clockwise. It may take some force from your foot to wiggle them free.

After loosening them, leave them on for now. Next, get the jack and place it under the wheel base. Carefully crank the tool so that the car is a minimum of six inches off the ground. Take off the lug nuts and wheel. Remove the flat tire and put on the spare tire. Align it with the wheel bolts and place the lug nuts back on. Secure them tightly and lower the jack. As a rule of thumb, always consult your vehicle’s owner manual for the right way to change a tire.

By following instructions and not rushing, you can change a deflated tire. When the time comes to get a new one, Hudson Tire & Battery Inc. in Harrison, AR, is your trusted resource for a wide range of top tire brands as well as auto repair services. Bring your vehicle in for professional installation and tire alignment services so that you can get back on the road. If you’re looking for a certain tire for your car or truck, call (870) 741-2740. Visit the website for details on the shop’s full lineup of auto repair services.