Nearly every driver will experience a flat tire at least once in their lifetime. Unlike most common car problems, flat tires can happen instantly—and need to be fixed before you can get back on the road. Fortunately, changing a tire is a quick and simple process when you know what to do. As the leading vehicle maintenance team in Anchorage, AK, Professional Automotive can guide you through the tire change process.

Follow these tips to master an important vehicle maintenance skill.

1. Stay Prepared

Since tires can go flat unexpectedly, it pays to be prepared. Make sure you always have a car jack and safety gear such as flares and a flashlight, so you and your vehicle are visible on the road. Inspect your spare tire routinely to make sure it is properly inflated and ready to go. Read your car’s manual to find out where the specialized tire-changing equipment is located.

2. Put Safety First

As soon as you notice your tire deflating, pull over to the side of the road. When possible, drive to an area with adequate lighting. Make sure there is enough space between you and the flow of traffic so you can safely remove the tire. Always set the parking brake and position the car on an even surface. 

3. Pop Off Hub Cap & Loosen the Lugs  

If the lug nuts are covered, pop off the face of the hubcap with the flat end of a screwdriver. Once the lug nuts are exposed, loosen them by turning a socket wrench clockwise. Your car’s manual may recommend using a special key wrench to unlock the locking lug, but this tool is not required.

4. Position & Crank the Jack  

Place your jack under the car to lift it from the ground. Your car manual may specify where the jack should be placed. Make sure it has full contact with the vehicle and crank it up until the tire is at least six inches from the ground.

5. Remove Tire  

Finish removing the lug nuts and put them aside for safekeeping. Next, carefully lift and pull the tire. Tires can be heavy, so use both arms and a tight grip.

6. Put on New Tire  

Once the flat is removed, put on the new or spare tire and reattach the lug nuts and hub cab.

7. Lower the Car   

When the new tire is secure, crank the jack back down until the tire makes full contact with the ground.

Although flat tires can’t always be prevented, keeping up scheduled maintenance services like car alignments can help reduce the risk. To schedule tire tuneups and other vehicle maintenance in Anchorage, AK, call Professional Automotive at (907) 562-2471 or visit them online.