Step-by-Step: How to Change a Flat Tire Using a Jack and Wrench

A flat tire is one of the most common roadside emergencies—but with the right tools and a little know-how, you can fix it quickly and safely. One of the most important skills every driver should learn is how to change a flat tire using a jack and wrench. These basic tools are simple to use and often come standard with your vehicle.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process step by step, from safety prep to installing the spare tire.

What You’ll Need

Before you start, make sure you have the following:

• Spare tire (fully inflated)

• Car jack

• Lug wrench (also called a wheel spanner)

• Wheel chocks or large stones (optional but helpful)

• Owner’s manual (for jacking points)

• Gloves and flashlight (if it’s dark or messy)

🚗 Step-by-Step: Changing a Flat Tire Using a Jack and Wrench

✅ Step 1: Find a Safe Location

• Pull over to a flat, solid surface away from traffic.

• Turn on your hazard lights.

• Apply the parking brake.

• Put the car in Park (automatic) or 1st gear (manual).

✅ Step 2: Secure the Vehicle

• Place wheel chocks (or large rocks) in front of and behind the tires opposite to the flat one to prevent the car from rolling.

Example: If your front right tire is flat, chock the rear tires.

✅ Step 3: Locate and Remove the Spare Tire

• In most cars, the spare is located in the trunk or under the rear of the vehicle.

• Take out the jack and wrench along with the spare.

✅ Step 4: Loosen the Lug Nuts

• Use the wrench to slightly loosen (not remove) the lug nuts while the flat tire is still touching the ground. Turn counterclockwise.

• You may need to apply some force—use your foot to push the wrench if needed (safely).

✅ Step 5: Position the Jack

• Check your owner’s manual to find the correct jacking point near the flat tire.

• Position the jack under this point and start raising the vehicle until the flat tire is about 2–3 inches off the ground.

Important: Only lift the vehicle from the correct jacking points to avoid damage or danger.

✅ Step 6: Remove the Lug Nuts and Tire

• Now that the car is raised, completely unscrew and remove the loosened lug nuts.

• Carefully pull the flat tire off and place it flat on the ground to avoid it rolling away.

✅ Step 7: Mount the Spare Tire

• Align the holes of the spare tire with the lug bolts and slide it onto the hub.

• Hand-tighten the lug nuts in a star (criss-cross) pattern.

✅ Step 8: Lower the Vehicle

• Use the jack to slowly lower the car until the spare tire touches the ground completely.

• Remove the jack.

✅ Step 9: Fully Tighten the Lug Nuts

• Use your wrench to tighten all the lug nuts firmly in a criss-cross pattern.

• This ensures even pressure and secure fitting.

✅ Step 10: Clean Up and Check

• Put the flat tire, jack, and wrench back in the trunk.

• Check the air pressure in the spare (use a gauge if available).

• Drive cautiously and head to a tire repair shop as most spare tires are not made for long-distance driving.

Pro Safety Tips

• Never crawl under the vehicle while using only a jack.

• Always use the parking brake and chock the wheels.

• Avoid using the jack on soft or uneven ground.

• If you're on a busy road, use reflective triangles or flares to stay visible.

Conclusion

Knowing how to change a flat tire using a jack and wrench is an essential skill that can save you time, money, and stress. With just a little preparation and practice, you can turn a roadside emergency into a minor inconvenience.

Keep your jack and wrench in good condition, check your spare tire regularly, and you’ll always be ready for the unexpected.