How to Change a Flat Tire

Do You Know How To Change A Flat Tire?

Knowing how to change a tire is a necessary skill for all drivers, especially if you do not have the protection of Honda's Roadside Assistance. Although many drivers have access to cell phones, there may be instances where you have a low signal, forget to charge it, or leave it at home. Flat tires can happen anywhere and usually without warning.

At Castle Honda, we care about our community, our neighbours, and our friends. That is why we want all automotive consumers in Etobicoke, Brampton, Mississauga, and Toronto to know the basics of changing a flat tire, and thankfully it isn't that hard.

How To Change A Flat Tire?

1. As soon as you realize you have a flat tire, do not suddenly brake or turn. Instead, you should slowly reduce your speed and scan your surroundings for a safe and level surface, ideally an empty parking lot. Parking on level ground is essential for preventing your vehicle from rolling. You should never attempt to change your tire on a narrow shoulder near oncoming traffic. Your safety always comes first. Keep moving slowly until you find a safe area.
2. Turn on your hazard lights, alerting other drivers that you are parked on the side of the road.
3. Once stopped, always apply the parking brake. This will reduce the likelihood of your vehicle rolling.
4. Apply the wheel wedges if you have them. Wheel wedges go in front of or behind the tires. This ensures the vehicle stays in place.
5. If your vehicle has a hubcap covering the lug nuts, it is easier to remove the hubcap or wheel covers before lifting the vehicle.
6. Using the lug wrench, turn the lug nuts counterclockwise until they are loose. It is ok to use force. Do not completely remove the lug nuts just yet.
7. Place the jack under the vehicle to lift the vehicle. To safely lift and avoid damage to the vehicle, follow the instructions for jack placement in your vehicle owner's manual. Now raise the vehicle with the jack.
8. Remove the lug nuts and remove the flat tire. Once removed, place the spare on the lug bolts. Push the spare tire gently until the lug bolts show through the rim. Tighten the lug nuts by hand only for now.
9. Lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts again using the wrench. Replace all other items in its storage compartment and check the pressure in the spare.
10. Immediately contact Castle Honda to replace or repair your tire.

Items Needed To Change A Flat Tire

When you purchased your new or used Honda, your vehicle should have come with the following items:

• Owner's Manual
• Spare Tire
• Wrench
• Jack

Be sure to consult your owner's manual for the location of the tools needed to change your flat. If you have misplaced any of these items, you should immediately purchase new ones, ensuring you're ready if you ever find yourself in an emergency. You should also regularly check your spare's air pressure every time you check your other tires.

Other items you should keep you in your vehicle include a flashlight with working batteries, gloves, and a wheel wedge.