Changing a Flat Tire
*MEDIUM*
On occasion, it may be necessary to change a flat tire. If necessary, you should do so according to the following general procedure:
- Park the vehicle on level ground with the engine OFF, the parking brake engaged, and the transmission in PARK (for automatic) or REVERSE (for manual). If you are stranded in traffic, be certain to park the vehicle as far away from other moving vehicles as is possible.
- Remove the wheel cover on the flat tire (if necessary) and loosen all the lug nuts one turn counterclockwise while the tire is still on the ground. Use the tire iron or jack handle provided with the vehicle.
- Elevate your car using the car jack until the flat tire is completely off the ground. Finish removing all the loose lug nuts.
- Remove the flat tire and replace it with the spare. Make sure the spare is squarely placed on the wheel hub and no that no dirt or debris is trapped between mounting surfaces.
- Tighten each lug nut in a clockwise direction until the tire spins too. Finish tightening the lug nuts in an alternating zigzag pattern.
Gently lower your car until the tire tread touches ground and tire cannot spin freely.- Finish tightening the lug nuts in an alternating zigzag pattern. Replace the wheel cover (if applicable) and lower the car completely. Remove the jack.