At Rath Auto Resources of Fort Smith, AR, we can tell you that car maintenance is the key to a smooth and safe driving experience. But sometimes, despite our best efforts, life has other plans, and we find ourselves dealing with an unexpected flat tire.
1. Safety First
Before anything else, ensure you’re in a safe location. If you’re on a busy road, pull off to the side or into a parking lot. Switch on your hazard lights and make sure your parking brake is engaged.
2. Gather Necessary Tools
Before you can change your tire, you’ll need a few essential tools. These include a car jack, a lug wrench, and of course, a spare tire. Most cars come equipped with these tools in the trunk, so it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with their location in advance.
3. Loosen the Lug Nuts
Before you lift the car, use your lug wrench to slightly loosen each lug nut on the flat. Turn the lug wrench counterclockwise. Do not remove the lug nuts entirely yet.
4. Position and Raise the Car Jack
Place the jack under the car’s frame close to the tire. Ensure the jack is on a firm and stable surface. Raise the car slowly until the tire is off the ground. Make sure the car is steady before proceeding.
5. Remove the Tire
Now, remove the lug nuts completely and set them aside in a place where they won’t roll away. Once done, grip the tire by its treads and pull it towards you until it’s free from the hub.
6. Mount the Spare Tire
Align the holes of the spare tire with the lug bolt posts on the hub. Push the spare onto the hub until you can see the lug bolts through the rim’s holes.
7. Hand-Tighten the Lug Nuts
Start by screwing the lug nuts back on by hand. Ensure they’re as tight as possible without using the wrench. This will ensure the tire is properly seated.
8. Lower the Vehicle and Tighten
Using the car jack, carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground. Once the car is securely on the ground, use the lug wrench to tighten each lug nut in a crisscross pattern. Make sure they’re as tight as possible to ensure safe driving.
Get Regular Car Maintenance in Fort Smith, AR to Avoid a Flat
Well, it’s impossible to guarantee that you’ll never experience a flat, you have a much better chance of avoiding one if you get regular maintenance at the dealership. This maintenance will include inspections of the tire and tire rotations to help you have a better chance of avoiding a flat.
Remember that regular tire maintenance and inspections are your best defense against unexpected flats or blowouts. Whether you need some maintenance or have just had a flat, bring your car to us at Rath Auto Resources of Fort Smith for expert care.
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