Change A Flat Tire Checklist
Table of Contents
Tools You Need:
Spare tire
Tire jack ;
Lug wrench
Socket (*If your hubcap has hard-to-remove covers on the lug nuts)
Owner's manual for your vehicle
This gives instructions on exactly how to position the jack under your car.
Changing the Tire
Park on a flat surface.
Remove the hubcap
Some are easier to remove than others. If you can't remove your hubcap by hand, you may need a socket to loosen the bolt covers. Put the socket over the covers and loosen - you may need to do more than one in order to pry the hubcap loose.
Loosen the lug nuts
;Use the lug wrench by placing it on the tire’s lug nuts.
Place the tire jack underneath your car
;Check your owner’s manual of your vehicle on how to correctly place the jack under your car. Typically, the manual is located in the glove compartment.
Jack up your car
;Crank the tire jack until the wheel is high above ground, enough for you to safely remove it.
Remove the flat
;Remove the loosened lug nuts from the wheel. You should be able to do this by hand.
Put on your spare tire
;Line up the lugs with the holes in the wheel and slide on.
Lower the car
;Lower the tire jack until the wheel is firmly touching the ground.
Finish tightening the lug nuts
;The lug nuts have to be fastened securely on for safety, so use your lug wrench for this.
Back on Track and Beyond
If you used a block, be sure to remove it first.
Ensure all equipment - flat tire, lug wrench, owners manual and any other tools are stowed safefly before getting back on the road.
Drive slowly
Spare tires are usually smaller than regular tires and if it's your first time changing a flat, you'll want to be extra cautious.
Make sure to get your car to a mechanic or autobody shop as soon as possible to replace the tire.
Get another spare tire
...just in case this happens again!
Helpful to have (but not necessary to change the flat)
Tire pressure gauge
Tire pump
Tire patch
In case you can't change the flat yourself, and only have to travel a short distance to someone who can help.
Flashlight
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Presented by:
Lauren Meir
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Details
Who it's for
This Change A Flat Tire Checklist is for anyone who wants a simple, practical way to get things done without missing steps.
- Avoid forgetting - keep all your Change A Flat Tire essentials in one place (external memory)
- Save time - start from a proven Change A Flat Tire structure instead of a blank page
- Stay on track - track progress, come back later, and keep momentum
- Coordinate with others - share the list and divide responsibilities
- Learn the process - follow the steps in a sensible order, even if it's your first time
How to use it
How to use this Change A Flat Tire Checklist
- Save Change A Flat Tire Checklist to your free Checklist account so your progress is saved and synced across devices.
- Customize it in the app: remove anything that does not apply, then add your own details for Change A Flat Tire (dates, sizes, addresses, notes).
- If others are involved, invite them to collaborate and divide responsibilities.
- Work through the list: check items off as you go, and set reminders for time-sensitive steps.