What Is The Best Way To Fix A Flat Tire

Learning how to fix a flat tire will give you the confidence of knowing what to do in case you have a blowout on the road. Here are some tips on how to fix a flat tire with the right equipment:

• The Tools

It is important to have the right tools to fix a flat that are ready to use in your trunk. These tools include a spare tire, lug nut wrench, and a floor jack. Consider purchasing a leverage pipe to help you loosen lug nuts that are extra tight. Its also good to have a flash light and flares in case you have a tire blow-out at night.

• Loosen The Lug Nuts

Remove the hubcap (if you have one) with a flat-head screwdriver. Loosen all the lug nuts with the lug nut wrench. One of the lug nuts might require a special key in order to remove it (for safety). If this is the case make sure to keep the key in a special place in your car so you don’t loose it. Use the leverage pipe to remove any lug nuts that are too difficult to remove with the lug nut wrench.

• Jack It Up

Use your floor jack to lift the car off of the ground. Allow for extra room because the new tire will be inflated and take up more space. Newer cars provide a slot near the tire that is specified for the jack. If your car is older, jack the car on a solid piece of the frame (look under the car to locate it). You can also consult the owner’s manual to see if they recommend a specific place to use the jack near each tire.

• Remove And Replace

Remove the lug nuts and place them in your pocket or somewhere you won’t loose them. Remove the flat tire and replace it with the spare tire. Fasten the lug nuts with your hands and lower the car back to the ground (keeping your foot away from the tire of course). Tighten the lug nuts with the lug nut wrench. Double-check each lug nut to make sure they are fastened tightly. Replace the hubcap and place your tools/flat tire back in your truck.

• Safety Tips

Put on your hazard lights while changing your tire so people can see you (especially at night). It’s also a good idea to set flares down 30 feet away to insure your safety while fixing the flat tire. Make sure to pull over to a shoulder that gives you sufficient room away from the road. Also see if the surface is flat enough to use the floor jack.