Changing a Flat Tire Safely

Changing a tire is a simple job, but people are hurt when cars fall off jacks and killed when they work beside traffic. The most important decision is where you change it.

• All drivers
• Home & family

First, find a safe spot

• Get completely off the road, on firm, level ground: a parking lot, a wide shoulder or a side street.
• If the flat is on the traffic side and traffic is close, call for roadside help instead. See Breaking Down on the Highway.
• Turn on hazard lights, set the parking brake, and put the car in Park (or in gear for a manual).
• Get passengers out and away from traffic.

Steps

1. Block the wheels: put wheel wedges (or rocks or bricks) against the tire diagonally opposite the flat.
2. Get out the spare, jack and lug wrench. Check the owner’s manual for the jack points.
3. Loosen the lug nuts about a half turn while the tire is still on the ground. Don’t remove them yet.
4. Jack up the car at the marked jack point until the flat tire is a few inches off the ground.
5. Remove the lug nuts and the flat tire. Keep the nuts together.
6. Mount the spare, and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
7. Lower the car until the tire touches the ground.
8. Tighten the lug nuts fully in a star (crisscross) pattern.
9. Lower the car completely, remove the jack and check the nuts again.

Temporary spares

• Small “donut” spares are only for short distances at reduced speed. Many are limited to 50 mph; check the sidewall.
• Check the spare’s pressure; spares are often low because they sit for years.
• Get the regular tire repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
• Have the lug nuts re-torqued after driving a short distance.

Other options

• Tire sealant kits: many new cars have no spare, just a sealant and compressor kit. Learn how to use it before you need it.
• Run-flat tires: let you drive a limited distance at reduced speed after losing pressure.
• Roadside assistance: through insurance, auto clubs or the vehicle maker.

Last updated: October 1, 2026