Every motorist dreads it, but sooner or later you’re going to have a flat tire. Just in case you haven’t already faced this problem, here are a few tips on changing a flat from your friends at your Ford dealer in Wayne, Hawk Ford.
Prepare in Advance
Always have a lug wrench, a jack in good working order and a flashlight or headlamp for working in the dark. Check the air pressure in your spare from time to time to make sure it’s ready for use when needed.
Changing the Tire
1) Find a safe place to park away from traffic. Avoid grass or dirt because your jack might become unstable.
2) Secure your vehicle. Turn off the engine, turn on your emergency flashers and engage the emergency brake.
3) Get the tire ready. Remove the hubcap and loosen the lug nuts slightly.
4) Raise the car. Check the owner’s manual for the best place to secure the jack, and jack up your car until the tire clears the ground.
5) Remove the flat. Completely unscrew the lug nuts and remove the tire.
6) Put on the spare. Once it’s in place, tighten the lug nuts and lower your car to the ground.
7) Remove the jack. Then tighten the lug nuts as much as possible.
Finally, the spare is probably a small, “donut” tire, so drive slowly to the nearest shop where the flat tire can be repaired or replaced.
