Getting a flat tire can be a stressful experience—especially if you’re in the middle of a drive and suddenly hear that dreaded thump-thump sound. 

But don’t worry! You don’t need to be a mechanic to put on a spare tire. 

This easy-to-follow guide will show you how to safely and quickly change your flat tire during a roadside emergency.

What You’ll Need in Your Car

Before you’re ever in this situation, make sure your car has a few essential tools:

• Spare tire: It must be fully inflated. Check it regularly!
• Jack: Used to lift your car off the ground.
• Lug wrench (tire iron): This helps loosen and tighten the lug nuts.
• Owner’s manual: It often shows where to place the jack.
• Wheel wedges or bricks: Prevents your car from rolling while you work.
• Flashlight or emergency light: Very helpful at night or in low visibility.

Bonus tip: Some emergency kits also include gloves, a reflective vest, and a tire pressure gauge. These extras can be helpful and keep you safer.

Step 1: Pull Over Safely

The first thing to do when you notice a flat tire is to find a safe spot to pull over.

• Turn on your hazard lights right away so other drivers can see you.
• Slow down gradually—don’t brake hard—and move your car to the shoulder of the road or another flat, safe area away from traffic.
• If possible, try to stop somewhere level to keep the car from rolling while you work.
• Avoid parking on curves or hills where other drivers might not see you in time.

Extra tip: If you’re on the highway and can make it to an exit or a gas station, go for it. It’s much safer than working on the shoulder of a fast-moving road.

Step 2: Secure the Vehicle

Before you grab your tools, make sure your car won’t move while you’re changing the tire.

• Set the parking brake. This keeps the car in place.
• Turn the car off and take the keys out of the ignition.
• Place wheel wedges or big rocks/bricks behind the tires that are opposite the flat one. For example, if the front tire is flat, wedge the back tires.

Why this matters: Even a slight roll can knock your car off the jack, which is extremely dangerous.

Step 3: Gather Your Tools and Spare Tire

Now that your car is secure:

1. Open the trunk or rear storage area.
2. Locate the spare tire, jack, and lug wrench. They’re usually stored underneath the trunk liner.
3. Keep your flashlight handy if it’s dark outside.

If you’re unsure where to find your tools or how to use them, your owner’s manual can help.

Step 4: Loosen the Lug Nuts

Before you lift the car, it’s important to loosen the lug nuts while the wheel is still on the ground. This keeps the wheel from spinning.

• Use the lug wrench to turn the lug nuts counterclockwise (lefty-loosey!).
• You may need to use your foot or body weight to get them moving.
• Don’t take them off all the way yet—just loosen them enough so they’re easier to remove later.

Step 5: Jack Up the Car

Now it’s time to lift the car off the ground.

1. Find the correct jacking point near the flat tire. Most cars have small notches under the frame.
2. Slide the jack under the point and start lifting by turning or pumping the handle.
3. Raise the car until the flat tire is about 6 inches off the ground.

Warning: Never put any part of your body under the car while it’s lifted. It’s not safe.

Step 6: Remove the Flat Tire

With the car off the ground and the lug nuts already loosened:

1. Fully remove each lug nut and place them somewhere safe (like inside a hubcap or pocket).
2. Gently pull the flat tire straight off the bolts and set it flat on the ground so it doesn’t roll.

Sometimes, the tire may be a little stuck. If so, gently tap it with your foot to loosen it.

Step 7: Mount the Spare Tire

Now it’s time to get the spare tire on the car.

1. Lift the spare and line up the holes with the bolts sticking out from the wheel hub.
2. Push the tire all the way onto the hub so it’s flush.
3. Put the lug nuts back on by hand, screwing them in just enough to hold the tire in place.

You’ll tighten them fully in the next step.

Step 8: Lower the Car

Now that the spare is mounted:

1. Slowly lower the car by reversing the jack’s motion.
2. Once the tire is firmly on the ground, remove the jack from under the car.

Step 9: Tighten the Lug Nuts

Use your lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross or star pattern. This helps the tire sit evenly.

1. Start with one nut, then move across the wheel to the opposite nut.
2. Keep going in this pattern until they’re all as tight as possible.

Tip: Use your body weight if needed to make sure each nut is really snug. A loose tire is dangerous.

Step 10: Pack Up and Drive Safely

Now that your spare tire is on:

• Place the flat tire and your tools back into the trunk.
• Double-check that all your items are secure.
• Turn off your hazard lights before you drive away.

Important Reminders About Spare Tires

• Spare tires (especially “donuts”) are not for long trips.
• Keep your speed under 50 mph.
• Don’t drive more than 50 to 70 miles on a spare.
• Head to a tire shop ASAP to repair or replace your flat.

If your spare is a full-size regular tire, you may be able to drive farther—but it’s still smart to get your original tire fixed quickly.

Final Thoughts

Changing a tire might seem like a big job, but with a calm mind and the right steps, anyone can do it. The key is being prepared and knowing what to do. By following this guide, you can safely handle a flat tire—even on the side of the road. 

Just remember to take your time, stay visible, and use your tools the right way. Once the spare is on, don’t forget to visit a repair shop soon. Safe driving!