How To Safely Change a Flat Tyre On The Side Of The Road

With the holiday season here, many of us are gearing up for festive road trips to visit loved ones - but what happens when the unexpected strikes, and you find yourself on the side of the road with a flat tyre? 

Fear not; Pearson Automotive have got you covered with a handy guide on how to safely change a flat tyre during your holiday travels.

1 - Stay Calm and Find a Safe Spot

The key to handling any unexpected situation is to stay calm. If you feel a sudden loss of control or hear that unmistakable thump, find a safe location to pull over. Look for a wide shoulder or a designated rest area. The safety of you and your passengers is the top priority.

2 - Activate Hazard Lights

Once you are safely pulled over, immediately turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers that you're experiencing car troubles.

3 - Gather The Necessary Tools

Pop open the trunk and locate your spare tire, jack, and wheel brace. Ensure that these tools are in good condition and easily accessible. Having a torch, gloves, and high-visibility clothing such as a vest in your emergency kit can also be beneficial, especially if you find yourself changing a tyre in low-light conditions or at night. 

4 - Secure Your Vehicle

Engage the parking brake to prevent your vehicle from rolling. If you're on a slope, place heavy objects, like rocks or bricks, in front of and behind the wheels to ensure additional stability.

5 - Loosen The Wheel Nuts

Use the wheel brace to slightly loosen the wheel nut on the flat tyre. This is easier to do while the vehicle is still on the ground. Remember, you're not removing them entirely at this point; just break the initial resistance.

6 - Lift The Vehicle

Refer to your car's manual to identify the proper lifting points. Position the jack beneath the vehicle and pump it until the flat tyre is a few inches off the ground. Ensure the jack is on a stable surface, minimising the risk of slippage.

7 - Remove The Flat Tyre

With the vehicle securely lifted, use the wheel brace to fully remove the loosened wheel nuts. Take off the flat tyre carefully, rolling it away from the vehicle to minimise any potential hazards.

8 - Install The Spare Tyre

Align the spare tyre with the wheel studs and gently push it onto the hub. Finger-tighten the wheel nuts as much as possible to secure the spare tyre in place.

9 - Lower The Vehicle

Carefully lower the vehicle using the jack. Once on the ground, use the wheel brace to fully tighten the wheel nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure distribution.

10 - Double-Check and Drive Safely

Give all the wheel nuts a final check to ensure they are tight and secure. Stow the flat tyre, jack, and tools back in your trunk. Remember, a spare tyre is a temporary solution, so drive cautiously and head to the nearest mechanic for a permanent fix.

By being prepared and following these steps, you can turn a potential holiday travel hiccup into a minor speed bump on the way to your festive destination. 

Pearson Automotive are able to repair and replace your tyre once you are able to safely get it to our mechanics - with our team able to source a tyre that suits your needs, as every car, driver, and budget differs. 

Keeping your car safely on the road with the minimum downtime is our main objective.

To help keep your car in its best possible condition, chat to our Milton mechanics today.

Safe travels and Merry Christmas!