Be prepared for the unexpected. Imagine getting a flat tyre in a deserted place with no cell service or a nearby gas station from where you can get help. You can get a flat tyre at the most inconvenient place and time – so isn’t it better to know how to change one than wait for help. As challenging as it may seem, it is not so difficult to change a tyre, provided you have the necessary items. Next time you hear a pop sound and your steering wheel seems a bit heavy, do not let your heart sink. This step by step guide will get you back on the road in no time.
Items You Need
All vehicles carry the following items and in case you do not have them then make sure to purchase them as soon as possible.
- Fully inflated spare tyre
- A Jack
- Lug Wrench
- Wheel Brace
All of these things are located in the car’s trunk, but in some cases jacks are placed into the engine well. So, it is best to familiarize yourself beforehand and know where exactly everything is.
Pull Over to a Safe Place
Once you realize you have a flat tyre, reduce speed slowly instead of stopping abruptly. Look for a suitable place to pull over and keep your car at safe distance from fast traffic. It is best to find a leveled and firm space that will prevent the vehicle from rolling. Turn on the hazard lights to alert the passersby. Also apply the parking brakes.
Apply the Wheel Brace
The wheel brace or wedges go either behind or in front of the tyres, further ensuring that the vehicle does not roll while you are fixing the flat tyre. If you are changing the back tyres then place the brace in front of the front tyres. In case the front tyre is flat, the brace will go behind the rear tyres.
Remove Hubcap & Loosen the Nuts
For most vehicles hubcaps cover the nuts so before loosening them it is important to remove them. Use the flat end of the lug wrench to remove the hubcaps. Once that is done use the wrench to loosen the nuts, moving it counterclockwise. Once you break the resistance, rotate slowly until the nuts come off. You might have to use your body weight or put your foot on the lug wrench and apply force.
Raise the Car with Jack
Position the jack under the car, beneath the frame alongside the tyre that is flat. For the exact placement of jack, read your car’s manual and follow the instructions to avoid any damage. With jack properly positioned, raise the vehicle slowly until the flat tyre is almost six inches above the ground.
Remove the Flat Tyre& Install Spare
Grip the flat tyre by treads and slowly remove it. Put it aside so it does not roll away. Place the spare tyre with the hub, lining the rim with the lug bolts. Put the nuts back on the bolts and tighten them using your hands. Lower the vehicle and tighten the bolts using the wrench, turning clockwise. Use your full weight to tug the lug wrench.
Lower the Vehicle Completely
Lower the vehicle all the way to the ground and remove the jack. Replace the hubcap and in case it does not fit, keep it safely inside your car. Stow all your equipment; make sure you do not forget anything behindad.
Read more: The guide to choosing the best seat covers for the truck
Finally take your car to a proper tyre shop and in case you require a new tyre, visit dubaityreshop.com to buy tires online UAE. There is a complete full range available of Pirelli Tyres that you can choose from, along with other popular brands.
