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Understanding the Basics of Tire Change
Before you begin changing the tire, it’s crucial to understand the parts involved. A spare tire, jack, lug wrench, and a safety triangle are essential tools. Ensure you are in a safe location, away from traffic, and your car is in a stable position.
Gathering the Necessary Tools
You will need: a spare tire, a lug wrench, a car jack, wheel chocks, and a safe location. Make sure your spare tire is inflated and suitable for your vehicle model.
Preparing Your Vehicle
Find a flat surface to park your car. Turn on the hazard lights to alert other drivers. Apply the parking brake and place wheel chocks behind the wheels to prevent rolling.
Loosening the Lug Nuts
Using the lug wrench, turn the lug nuts counterclockwise to loosen them. Do not remove them completely at this stage; just break their tension. If the lug nuts are stuck, applying a penetrating oil may help.
Lifting the Vehicle
Position the jack under the vehicle’s designated lift point, usually indicated in the owner’s manual. Pump the jack until the tire is off the ground. Make sure it is stable before proceeding.
Removing the Flat Tire
Now that the vehicle is lifted, remove the loosened lug nuts completely. Keep them in a safe place so they don't roll away. Carefully take off the flat tire and set it aside.
Installing the Spare Tire
Align the holes of the spare tire with the wheel hub. Place the spare tire onto the hub. Hand-tighten the lug nuts onto the spare until they are snug, but do not fully tighten them yet.
Lowering the Vehicle
Carefully lower the jack until the spare tire makes contact with the ground. Now fully tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure.
Final Checks and Clean Up
Double-check the tightness of the lug nuts after lowering the vehicle completely. Store the flat tire and tools back in your vehicle, ensuring that nothing is left behind.