Pull over somewhere flat and safe, turn on your hazards, and loosen the lug nuts before jacking up the car. Raise it, remove the flat, mount the spare, lower it, then fully tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern. Drive gently to a tire shop.
Get safe first
Pull completely off the road onto firm, level ground, turn on your hazard lights, set the parking brake, and put out a warning triangle if you have one. If you're somewhere dangerous (a busy highway, a blind curve), don't risk it — call roadside assistance.
What you need (keep these in the trunk)
- Spare tire (check it has air every so often)
- Jack
- Lug wrench
- Your car's manual
- A flashlight and gloves
The steps
- Loosen the lug nuts a half-turn while the tire's still on the ground (counter-clockwise).
- Position the jack at the spot shown in your manual and raise the car until the flat is off the ground.
- Remove the lug nuts the rest of the way and pull the flat tire off.
- Mount the spare, then hand-tighten the lug nuts.
- Lower the car back down.
- Fully tighten the lug nuts in a star/crisscross pattern so the wheel seats evenly.
Many spares are small 'donuts' meant for short, slow trips only — usually under 50 mph and not far. Get the real tire repaired or replaced soon.
Common questions
What if I can't loosen the lug nuts?
Use your body weight by stepping on the wrench, but stay safe. If they won't budge or you're in a risky spot, call for help — no shame in it.
No spare in my car?
Some cars come with a sealant/inflator kit instead. Check your trunk now, before you need it, so you're not surprised.