Change a Flat Tire like a Pro

There are certain things all drivers should know about vehicle maintenance and at the top of that list should be how to change a flat tire. We’ve all been there – you’re cruising along enjoying your day when one of your tires goes out unexpectedly. Most of us tend to rely on a cellphone to call for towing or roadside assistance, but what would you do if you were out of service’s reach? Here at our Toyota Service Center in Orlando our experts believe it is important that all drivers know how to change a flat tire on their own. That being said, we sat down with one of our tire experts to provide you with detailed instructions on how to change a flat tire like a professional.

Your Toyota of Orlando’s Parts Center shopping list

Most importantly you will need to have the necessary supplies to change a tire- a spare, a jack, a lug wrench, and your owner’s manual. However, if you want to be even more prepared Toyota of Orlando recommends storing some extra supplies in your car to make things even easier. Amongst these items is a towel or mat to kneel on, a flashlight in case you have to work in the dark, and gloves to protect your hands.

Now that you have all of the essentials you are ready to start changing your flat tire.

Steps to changing a tire

Step #1. Slowly pull over to a safe area. You want to avoid breaking or turning immediately when you come to the realization that you have a flat tire. Take your time to reduce your speed and pull over. The ideal tire changing area will be a longer straight stretch of land.

Step #2. Immediately activate your hazard lights. This will enable other drivers to see you and help prevent other accidents as you pull over.

Step #3. Remove the hubcap. Once you remove the hubcap you will gain complete access to the tire. Then use the flat end of the lug wrench to loosen, not remove, the lug nuts.

Step #4. Use the jack to raise the vehicle. Consult your owner’s manual to make sure you place the jack in the correct spot to avoid any damages. After you make sure the jack is firmly in place, you want to raise your Toyota car until its flat tire is about 6 inches off the road. Remember when doing this step to not place any body parts under the car for safety reasons.

Step #5. Remove the tire. You are finally ready to remove the tire, but use caution because the tire is pretty heavy. To make removal as easy as possible, make sure to pull the tire out straight toward you and not at an angle. Also keep a watchful eye on the lug nuts during this step. You do not want to lose any of them!

Step #6. Place the spare tire onto your car. Just as you removed your flat, make sure to avoid placing the spare on at an angle and make sure the tire is placed straight on. If you do not have a spare tire the Toyota of Orlando Service Center can help you be prepared by finding you a good spare to fit your vehicle. Then fasten the lug nuts to ensure your spare is on securely. However, you do not have to fasten them completely, that will come later.

Step #7. Lower your car back down to remove the jack. When lowering your car back down make sure that you lower it enough so that the removal of the jack will not cause damage to your vehicle. Once the jack is removed, it is time to tighten all of the lug nuts completely. Now you can safely make your way to your local service center so you can have your vehicle sporting the right tires again!

Toyota of Orlando can help finish the job!

Now that you are officially proficient in the tire changing bizz don’t forget this is simply a quick fix to allow you to get to your nearest automobile service so you can get your tire actually replaced. Our service team never recommends driving around with a spare tire especially when it comes to long distance driving, highway driving, or driving over 55 mph. Spare tires can only handle so much.

However, the good news is, is that you can find a plethora of amazing deals on car tires at the Toyota of Orlando Service Center. From sales to coupons to service specials our Orlando dealership has something for you. So next time you find yourself in need of a new set of tires give us a call at (407) 298-4500!