If you experience a puncture while driving and have a spare wheel, you can follow these steps to change it:
- Find a safe location: Move your vehicle to a safe and level area away from traffic. Activate hazard lights and engage the parking brake.
- Gather necessary tools: Locate the spare wheel, jack, lug wrench, and any other tools required for the task. These are usually found in the trunk or under the floor mat.
- Loosen lug nuts: Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire. Turn them counterclockwise, but do not remove them completely at this stage.
- Position the jack: Consult your vehicle’s manual to identify the proper lifting points for the jack. Place the jack in the designated location, ensuring it is secure and stable.
- Lift the vehicle: Use the jack to raise the vehicle until the flat tire is off the ground. It’s important to lift the vehicle high enough to remove the flat tire and replace it with the spare wheel.
- Remove the flat tire: Completely unscrew the lug nuts and carefully remove the flat tire from the vehicle. Place it aside, preferably under the car frame, to act as a safety precaution in case the jack fails.
- Mount the spare wheel: Lift the spare wheel and align it with the lug bolts. Push the wheel onto the bolts and hand-tighten the lug nuts as much as possible.
- Lower the vehicle: Use the jack to lower the vehicle slowly until the spare wheel touches the ground. Ensure that the wheel is aligned properly.
- Tighten the lug nuts: Use the lug wrench to securely tighten the lug nuts in a star or crisscross pattern. This ensures even tightening and proper wheel alignment. Tighten the nuts as much as you can.
- Lower the vehicle completely: Carefully lower the vehicle until the spare wheel is firmly on the ground. Remove the jack and place it back in its storage location.
- Check the spare wheel pressure: Confirm that the spare wheel has sufficient air pressure. It’s advisable to have the tire repaired or replaced as soon as possible, as spare wheels are typically designed for temporary use only.
If your vehicle does not have a spare wheel, there are a few alternatives you can consider:
- Tire repair kit: Some vehicles come equipped with a tire repair kit that includes sealants and a compressor. Follow the instructions provided with the kit to repair the punctured tire temporarily.
- Run-flat tires: Some vehicles are equipped with run-flat tires that allow you to drive for a limited distance even after a puncture. Consult your vehicle’s manual for specific guidance on run-flat tire usage and limitations.
- Emergency roadside assistance: If you are unable to address the puncture on your own, contact a roadside assistance service for help. They can provide professional assistance and tow your vehicle to a repair shop if needed.
Remember, it’s always important to consult your vehicle’s manual for specific instructions and to seek professional help if you are unsure or uncomfortable with changing a tire on your own.
Kelvin Armstrong Auto Repairs (KAAR) is recognised as the most competent, capable, and reliable automotive repairer west of the Auckland City isthmus.
With fully equipped, state of art facilities in both Avondale and Henderson, KAAR gives a choice of two handy locations for full automotive, mechanical, electrical repairs and servicing for all vehicles, including European makes and models like Audi, VW and BMW.
We cater for all makes and models of cars, vans, 4x4s and light trucks. We service petrol, diesel and hybrid motors.