Step-by-Step Guide to Installing a Spare Tire
Don't let a flat tire leave you stranded. Follow our detailed guide to safely and correctly install a spare tire, ensuring you're prepared for this common roadside emergency.
A flat tire can happen to anyone, anywhere. Being prepared and knowing how to properly install a spare tire can turn a potential emergency into a manageable situation. This guide walks you through the process step-by-step to get you back on the road safely.
Essential Preparation
Required Tools
- Jack (included with most vehicles)
- Lug wrench/tire iron
- Spare tire (full-size or temporary)
- Vehicle owner's manual
- Wheel chocks (or rocks/blocks)
- Flashlight (for night changes)
- Gloves to protect hands
Before You Need It
- Locate where your spare tire is stored
- Find the jack points on your vehicle
- Learn how to release your spare tire
- Check if your vehicle has wheel locks
- Check spare tire pressure monthly
Safety First: Find a Safe Location
Ideal Location
- Flat, level ground
Never change on an incline or soft ground
- Away from traffic
Pull as far off the road as possible
- Well-lit area if possible
Especially important at night
Safety First: If you can't find a safe spot, call roadside assistance. You can also drive slowly (under 2 mph) to reach a safer location, though this may damage the wheel. Remember: Your safety is more important than your wheel.
Step-by-Step Tire Changing Process
Step 1-2: Prepare Your Vehicle & Tools
- Turn on hazard lights and apply the parking brake
- Place wheel chocks on the opposite side from the flat tire
- Get out your spare tire, jack, and lug wrench
- Remove hubcaps or wheel covers if necessary
Pro Tip: If lug nuts are difficult to loosen, try standing on the wrench or using a pipe over the handle for extra leverage.
Steps 3-5: Loosen, Jack, and Remove
- Loosen lug nuts BEFORE jacking (turn counterclockwise)
- Position jack at proper jacking point (check manual)
- Raise vehicle until tire is about 6 inches off ground
- Remove lug nuts completely and pull off the flat tire
Important: Never try to loosen lug nuts after jacking. Never place body parts under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
Steps 6-9: Install and Secure
- Mount spare tire on the wheel hub
- Hand-tighten lug nuts (clockwise)
- Lower vehicle partially and tighten lug nuts in star pattern
- Lower vehicle completely and give final tightening
- Store tools and the flat tire in your vehicle
Star Pattern: For 5-lug wheels: Tighten 1, then 3, then 5, then 2, then 4. For 4-lug: Tighten 1, then 3, then 2, then 4.
After Installing Your Spare
Temporary Spare Limitations
- Maximum Speed: 50 mph
Driving faster can cause failure
- Maximum Distance: 50-70 miles
Not for long-distance use
- Different Handling
Expect reduced stability and traction
When to Seek Professional Help
- You're in an unsafe location
- You have physical limitations
- Lug nuts are too tight to loosen
- You don't have proper equipment
- Your vehicle has special requirements
Quick Reference: Spare Tire Installation
- Find a safe, level location and apply the parking brake
- Loosen lug nuts before jacking up the vehicle (counterclockwise)
- Position jack at proper jacking point and raise vehicle
- Remove lug nuts completely and take off flat tire
- Mount spare tire and hand-tighten lug nuts (clockwise)
- Lower vehicle partially and tighten lug nuts in star pattern
- Lower vehicle completely and give final tightening to all lug nuts
- Check spare tire pressure and observe speed/distance limitations
Big on Fast. Big on Friendly.
Don't wait until you notice warning signs. Our certified technicians at American Tire Depot are here to help keep your vehicle running at its best!