How to change a flat tyre
Knowing how to change a flat tyre is something every driver should know how to do.
It’s not as difficult as you think… here’s how:
If suspect you have a flat tyre, slow down and steer your vehicle safely off the road. It’s better to take your time and drive to a more secluded spot with a flat than quickly pulling over and getting pummelled by an articulated lorry.
Bear in mind that a flat or blown tyre will affect your vehicle's handling and steering, so be careful.
Bring your car to a safe stop on a level area that’s out of the way of oncoming traffic. Turn off the ignition and turn on your hazards and apply the handbrake.
You’ll need a spare tyre, car jack and a wheel spanner (found in the boot of most cars). Using your wheel spanner, loosen the wheel nuts on the tyre before raising the wheel. Be sure to raise the old wheel high enough to, not only, remove the flat but also put the new tyre on.
After carefully removing the wheel nuts, remove the flat tyre and put them both to one side. Firmly place the new tyre onto your wheel’s hub, making sure to align the holes with the studs, replace the wheel nuts and tighten them. Once the wheel nuts are secure, slowly lower the jack until the wheel is resting firmly on the ground. Lastly, collect the tools and the flat tyre and put them back in the boot.
Top tip – don’t get caught without a spare tyre, repair or replace your flat as soon as you can.
If you don’t feel comfortable changing a flat tyre yourself, or if you don’t have the tools to hand, why not consider adding breakdown cover to your car insurance policy.
It’s worth remembering that, with most policies, you’ll have to cover the cost of the replacement tyre.
