Getting a flat tire is one of the most common roadside issues drivers face. Whether you’re on your way to work or heading out of town, a flat can disrupt your plans in seconds. At Miramar Towing, we understand how frustrating and potentially dangerous a flat tire can be — that’s why our AAA-trained roadside technicians follow strict safety procedures when changing tires, and we encourage drivers to do the same.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to the proper tire change procedure, so you can stay safe and informed while waiting for help or handling it yourself.
Step 1: Get to a Safe Location
If you’re driving and get a flat, slow down and pull over to a safe, flat area, away from traffic. Look for a wide shoulder, parking lot, or rest area. Turn on your hazard lights immediately to alert other drivers.
Avoid changing a tire on curves, inclines, or near fast-moving traffic.
Step 2: Apply Parking Brake and Prepare the Vehicle
- Turn off the engine and apply the parking brake.
- Place wheel wedges or heavy objects (like bricks or rocks) behind the tires to prevent rolling.
- Retrieve your spare tire, jack, lug wrench, and owner’s manual from the vehicle.
Step 3: Loosen Lug Nuts (Before Jacking Up)
Using the lug wrench, loosen (but do not remove) the lug nuts on the flat tire by turning counterclockwise. This can be difficult, so use your body weight if needed — but avoid stripping the nuts.
Step 4: Jack Up the Vehicle Safely
- Position the jack under the vehicle frame near the flat tire — refer to your owner’s manual for the correct jack point.
- Slowly raise the vehicle until the flat tire is about 6 inches off the ground.
- Never put your body underneath the vehicle while it’s raised.
Step 5: Remove the Flat Tire and Mount the Spare
- Fully remove the loosened lug nuts and take off the flat tire.
- Align the spare tire with the wheel bolts and push it on securely.
- Hand-tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure.
Step 6: Lower the Vehicle and Tighten Lug Nuts
- Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground using the jack.
- Use the lug wrench to fully tighten the nuts in a star or crisscross pattern.
- Check the lug nuts after driving a short distance to ensure they remain tight.
Step 7: Drive Cautiously and Replace the Spare Soon
Most spare tires — especially “donuts” — are temporary. Avoid high speeds and have the original tire repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Also, check the spare’s air pressure if possible before driving long distances.
Let Miramar Towing Handle It for You
If you’re unsure about changing the tire yourself, don’t take chances. Our AAA-trained technicians at Miramar Towing are available 24/7 to perform safe and proper tire changes wherever you’re located. We’ll:
- Arrive quickly with the right tools
- Ensure your spare is properly installed and inflated
- Recommend towing if your spare isn’t safe to drive on
Call Miramar Towing for Tire Change Help
Flat tire? Don’t stress. Call (619) 429-8444 and let Miramar Towing take care of it. We provide fast, professional roadside assistance throughout San Diego — day or night.