How to Install a Spare Tire (Step-by-Step Guide)
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How to Install a Spare Tire (Step-by-Step Guide)
Getting a flat tire can happen anytime — whether you're on the highway, in a parking lot, or at home. Knowing how to install your spare tire can help you get back on the road quickly and safely.
If you’ve never done it before, don’t worry. Follow this simple step-by-step guide.
What You’ll Need
Before changing your tire, locate these tools in your vehicle:
• Spare tire
• Jack
• Lug wrench
• Vehicle owner’s manual
• Wheel wedges or a heavy object (optional)
Most vehicles store these items in the trunk or under the cargo floor.
Step 1: Find a Safe Location
If you get a flat tire while driving:
• Slow down gradually
• Turn on your hazard lights
• Pull over to a safe, flat location
Avoid changing a tire on a slope or near heavy traffic if possible.
Step 2: Secure the Vehicle
Before lifting the vehicle:
• Put the car in park
• Engage the parking brake
• Place wheel wedges or blocks behind the tires
This prevents the vehicle from rolling.
Step 3: Loosen the Lug Nuts
Using the lug wrench:
• Turn each lug nut counterclockwise
• Loosen them slightly (do not remove yet)
Lug nuts are easier to loosen before the car is lifted.
Step 4: Lift the Vehicle with the Jack
Locate the jack point under your vehicle (check your owner’s manual).
Then:
• Place the jack under the correct lift point
• Raise the vehicle until the flat tire is off the ground
Step 5: Remove the Flat Tire
Now you can:
• Fully remove the loosened lug nuts
• Pull the flat tire straight off the wheel hub
Place the lug nuts somewhere safe so they don't roll away.
Step 6: Install the Spare Tire
Line up the spare tire with the wheel bolts and push it onto the hub.
Then:
• Hand-tighten the lug nuts
• Tighten them in a star pattern to keep the wheel balanced
Step 7: Lower the Vehicle
Slowly lower the jack until the tire touches the ground.
Once the vehicle is fully lowered:
• Tighten the lug nuts firmly with the wrench
Important: Spare Tire Safety
Most spare tires (especially donut spares) are temporary and should only be used for short distances.
Typical spare tire limits:
• Drive under 50 mph
• Replace the tire as soon as possible
• Avoid long highway trips
When You Should Call Roadside Assistance
Changing a tire yourself may not always be safe or possible. Consider calling a professional if:
• You’re on the highway
• You don’t have the tools
• The lug nuts are stuck
• The spare tire is missing or flat
Need Help With a Flat Tire in San Antonio?
If you don’t want to change the tire yourself, SATX Tire Pros Roadside Service can come directly to your location and help get you back on the road quickly.
SATX Tire Pros Roadside Service LLC
📞 210-361-5699
Fast mobile tire repair and roadside assistance throughout the San Antonio area.
