Finding yourself with a flat tire is a rite of passage for most drivers. While it can be a stressful situation, knowing how to change that tire safely is an empowering skill. At the heart of this task is a simple yet vital tool: the car jack. Before you ever need it, learning the proper steps for how to use a car jack is the key to getting back on the road quickly and without injury.
A car jack is designed to lift your vehicle, not hold it up permanently. It’s a temporary support system that gives you the clearance to remove the flat tire and install the spare. Rushing the process or cutting corners can lead to the car falling, causing serious damage or harm. Taking your time to do it right is the most important part of the job.
The Right Way to Use Your Car Jack
First, park on a firm, level surface and engage your parking brake. For an automatic, put the car in “Park.” For a manual, put it in first gear. Place wheel wedges, or large rocks, against the tires opposite the flat to prevent rolling. Locate your spare tire, jack, and lug wrench. Now, you’re ready to start.
Before lifting, slightly loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire with your wrench. They are often very tight, so you may need to use your foot for leverage, but just break their resistance—don’t remove them completely. Next, consult your owner’s manual to find the correct jack points on your vehicle’s frame. These are reinforced metal spots designed to handle the jack’s pressure; placing the jack anywhere else can damage your car’s underside.
Lifting Your Car Safely
Position the jack securely under the designated jack point. Begin to lift the car slowly and steadily. Continue until the flat tire is about six inches off the ground. Never put any part of your body under a vehicle supported only by a jack. For added safety, if you have a stand, place it under a secure part of the frame once the car is lifted.
Now you can fully remove the loosened lug nuts and carefully pull the flat tire straight off. Place it under the vehicle’s side sill as an extra safety block. Mount the spare tire onto the wheel studs, hand-tighten the lug nuts, and then lower the car slowly until the tire touches the ground. Use the wrench to fully tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure the tire is seated evenly.
Final Checks Before You Drive
Once the car is fully lowered, do a final check to ensure all lug nuts are as tight as possible. Stow your flat tire, jack, and tools securely in your trunk. Remember, a small donut spare tire is not designed for long distances or high speeds. Drive directly to a tire shop to have your flat tire repaired or replaced.
With these steps in mind, you can approach a flat tire with confidence instead of panic. A little knowledge and preparation turn a daunting roadside emergency into a manageable task you can handle yourself.
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