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 Big Brand Tire & Service are here to help keep your vehicle running at its best!