Changing a tire on the highway can be a dangerous task, so if possible, it is best to move your car to a safer location, such as a nearby parking lot, before attempting to change a tire. However, if you must change a tire on the highway, follow these steps:
- Pull over to a safe location: If you are unable to drive to a safer location, pull your car as far to the side of the road as possible and turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
- Gather necessary tools: Most cars come with a spare tire, a jack, and a lug wrench. Gather these tools and put on any other safety equipment, such as gloves or a reflective vest, before starting.
- Loosen lug nuts: Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire by turning them counterclockwise. You don’t need to remove the lug nuts at this point, just get them loose.
- Jack up the car: Position the jack under the car, following your car owner’s manual instructions, and pump the handle until the car is high enough to remove the tire.
- Remove the flat tire: Use the lug wrench to remove the lug nuts, then carefully remove the flat tire and set it aside.
- Install the spare tire: Line up the spare tire with the studs, then hand tighten the lug nuts to hold the tire in place.
- Lower the car and tighten the lug nuts: Lower the car with the jack and use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts. Tighten them in a star pattern to ensure even tightening.
- Check tire pressure: Once you have changed the tire, be sure to check the tire pressure on the spare tire with a tire gauge.
- Clean up and put tools away: Put your flat tire and tools in your trunk, and clean up any debris left behind.
- Drive to a tire shop: It’s recommended to only use the spare tire as a temporary solution. You should drive to a tire shop as soon as possible to have the flat tire repaired or replaced.
Remember, changing a tire on the highway can be dangerous, so be sure to take all necessary precautions to ensure your safety and the safety of others. If you are unsure about how to change a tire, call for roadside assistance or ask for help from a passing motorist.
