How to Change a Flat Tire: The Right Tools and the Right Method

September 18th, 2018 by

How to Change a Flat Tire

How to change a flat tire – it’s knowledge all drivers should have, and yet it’s a skill frequently spurned. That’s okay. Let’s go ahead and learn about the basics, including:

  • The Right Gear
  • The Right Method

The Right Gear

Firstly, you should have these items in your car at all times in case of a flat tire:

  • Jack
  • Lug Wrench
  • Fully Inflated Spare Tire
  • Owner’s Manual

Misplaced them? Never issued them in the first place? Pick up new ones, making sure the spare is regularly inflated to your manufacturer’s recommended PSI. You’ll also want the following on-hand:

  • Flashlight
  • Rain Poncho
  • 2″x6” Wood to Secure the Jack
  • Gloves
  • Wheel Wedges

Which are all great things to keep in your car at all times for other problems that may arise. Better to be prepared!

The Right Method

Okay, now onto the good stuff. How to actually change your flat tire:

  1. Bring your vehicle to a safe location. Slow down and pick out a level, straight stretch of road with a wide shoulder
  2. Turn on your hazard lights before getting out.
  3. Apply the parking brake, even on level ground, to prevent rolling.
  4. Apply the wheel wedges. They go in front of the front tires when you’re changing a rear tire or behind the rear tires when you’re changing at the front.
  5. Place the jack beneath the frame. Look for a section of exposed metal, and follow the instructions in your owner’s manual.
  6. Place a small cut of 2×6” wood beneath the jack to prevent it settling, then start to lift. Remember never to place any part of your body under the vehicle.
  7. Unscrew the lug nuts – once loose, it’s easy to unscrew them by hand.
  8. Remove the flat by gripping the treads and pulling gently towards you. Set it on its side to prevent rolling.
  9. Mount the spare on the lug nuts, then tighten them by hand until they are all on.
  10. Lower the vehicle slightly and tighten the lug nuts with a wrench
  11. Bring the vehicle to the ground
  12. Replace the hubcap. It may not fit – if so, stow it with your flat.
  13. Check the pressure of the spare to make sure it’s safe to drive on.
  14. Drive to a service center. Remember, spares are meant to be temporary and shouldn’t be driven at high speeds.

Need Any Further Advice? Simply Contact Cox Mazda

Whether talking to our finance department or visiting our service department we’re always here to help. Don’t hesitate to contact us today if you’d like to find out more, or come into our dealership in Bradenton today! We’d also love to help you learn about Mazda CX-5 Gas Mileage or how to check your oil.

The Latest From Cox Mazda

  • 2026 MAZDA CX-50 Specs

      The Mazda CX-50is an adventure-ready vehicle, offering the off-roading and towing capabilities that drivers throughout Sarasota and Tampa want. This rugged vehicle is also ideal for your daily commute. Learn about the Mazda CX-50 specs with the team at Cox Mazda, including this model’s engine options and mpg ratings, before scheduling a test drive. If…

    Read More

  • 2026 MAZDA CX-90 Interior Dimensions

      The 2026 Mazda CX-90 is a crossover that instantly grabs attention on the roads of Tampa and the surrounding areas, thanks to its sophisticated proportions, striking design, and available range of vibrant color choices. However, there’s more to this stunning SUV than meets the eye. The latest Mazda CX-90 features a cabin that is…

    Read More

  • 2025 MAZDA CX-90 Safety & Security

      What is the Mazda CX-90 safety rating? Safety is paramount when driving on busy Sarasota roads, after all, and it is the responsibility of all drivers to keep their passengers safe and to do no harm to other drivers on the road. So, wanting to learn about the safety rating or features of a…

    Read More

Service Specials

Pick Up & Delivery Service!

We offer Valet Pick Up and Delivery of your vehicle anywhere in Manatee County. Some areas are no charge. Call for details. 941-749-2701

Plus applicable taxes. Valid only at COX MAZDA. Cannot be used with any other applicable offer. Mazda vehicles only. Some vehicles may be slightly higher. Hazardous waste fee and shop supplies fee if applicable. Please present offer at time of write-up. No cash value. Coupon expires 08/31/26.
Expires: 08/31/2026

Mazda Service Special

$20.00 Off With Coupon

• Replace engine oil and Genuine Mazda oil filter
• Rotate and inspect tires, check brake wear
• Check engine coolant
• Check cooling system for leaks
• Check and top off all fluid levels
• Check belts and hoses
• Check and adjust tire pressure
• Check exhaust system
• Check constant velocity (CV) boots
• Complete a multi-point inspection

Plus applicable taxes. Valid only at COX MAZDA. Cannot be used with any other applicable offer. Mazda vehicles only. Some vehicles may be slightly higher. Hazardous waste fee and shop supplies fee if applicable. Please present offer at time of write-up. No cash value. Coupon expires 08/31/26.
Expires: 08/31/2026

Detail Special- Keep Your Mazda Looking New

Includes hand wash, pressure clean, vacuum, wax and more! Call for details.
*Starting at $74.98 Call for more information, and find the detail package that works best for you!

Plus applicable taxes. Valid only at COX MAZDA. Cannot be used with any other applicable offer. Mazda vehicles only. Some vehicles may be slightly higher. Hazardous waste fee and shop supplies fee if applicable. Please present offer at time of write-up. No cash value. Coupon expires 08/31/26.
Expires: 08/31/2026

CABIN AIR FILTER REPLACEMENT SERVICE

$10.00 Off With Coupon

The air you breathe is only as clean as the filter it goes through. A new cabin air filter will reduce impurities such as pollen, dust, mold and other airborne contaminants. Replace every 12-24 months

Plus applicable taxes. Valid only at COX MAZDA. Cannot be used with any other applicable offer. Mazda vehicles only. Some vehicles may be slightly higher. Hazardous waste fee and shop supplies fee if applicable. Please present offer at time of write-up. No cash value. Coupon expires 08/31/26.
Expires: 08/31/2026

Oil and Filter Change

$10.00 Off With Coupon

Changing your Mazda’s oil and filter regularly is your first step to help ensure its long life and dependability.
• Change motor oil per specifications
• Install a Genuine Mazda oil filter
• Check all fluid levels

Plus applicable taxes. Valid only at COX MAZDA. Cannot be used with any other applicable offer. Mazda vehicles only. Some vehicles may be slightly higher. Hazardous waste fee and shop supplies fee if applicable. Please present offer at time of write-up. No cash value. Coupon expires 08/31/26.
Expires: 08/31/2026

Air Conditioning Service

$349.99 With Coupon

Escape the heat…keep your air conditioning system working at its optimum level.
• Test system for proper cooling and operation
• Inspect hoses and connections for leaks
• Clean condenser fins
*Additional charges for Freon/refrigerant may apply

Plus applicable taxes. Valid only at COX MAZDA. Cannot be used with any other applicable offer. Mazda vehicles only. Some vehicles may be slightly higher. Hazardous waste fee and shop supplies fee if applicable. Please present offer at time of write-up. No cash value. Coupon expires 08/31/26.
Expires: 08/31/2026

Customize Your Mazda

Accessorize your Mazda to reflect your own style! Roof racks, cargo covers, all weather mats and more!
*10% off parts and labor Call for details today!

Plus applicable taxes. Valid only at COX MAZDA. Cannot be used with any other applicable offer. Mazda vehicles only. Some vehicles may be slightly higher. Hazardous waste fee and shop supplies fee if applicable. Please present offer at time of write-up. No cash value. Coupon expires 08/31/26.
Expires: 08/31/2026

WIPER BLADE REPLACEMENT SPECIAL!

$10.00 Off With Coupon

Are your wipers streaking or noisy? Replace them with Genuine Mazda wiper blades. Sold per pair.

Plus applicable taxes. Valid only at COX MAZDA. Cannot be used with any other applicable offer. Mazda vehicles only. Some vehicles may be slightly higher. Hazardous waste fee and shop supplies fee if applicable. Please present offer at time of write-up. No cash value. Coupon expires 08/31/26.
Expires: 08/31/2026

Any Recommendation From An Inspection

We will complete a Mazda full Circle Inspection of your vehicle and provide you with all of the information.
Take $10.00 off any recommendation from that inspection estimate.

This offer must be shown to your service advisor and presented before the time of write-up.
Cannot be combined with any other offer. Taxes and fees do not apply. Valid only at Cox Mazda.

A/C Check

Summertime is almost here. Is you’re A/C ready? We will check it and top it off.
$10.00 off your next A/C service check.

Brake Jobs

Stopping is important. How are your Brakes? We will check them for free and let you know.
Take $10.00 off your next complete brake job at Cox Mazda Service.

This offer must be shown to your service advisor and presented before the time of write-up. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Taxes and fees do not apply. Valid only at Cox Mazda.

Battery Replacement

Battery getting old? Batteries typically last about 3 years in Florida.
We will check it for free and let you know how it is currently testing.

This offer must be shown to your service advisor and presented before the time of write-up. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Taxes and fees do not apply. Valid only at Cox Mazda.

Vehicle Alignment

$10.00 Off on your next Alignment at Cox Mazda
Drive straight and keep your tires wearing right with an alignment at Cox Mazda.

This offer must be shown to your service advisor and presented before the time of write-up. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Taxes and fees do not apply. Valid only at Cox Mazda.

Tire Rotation

Save $5.00 off on your next tire rotation at Cox Mazda
Keep your tires wearing correctly for as long as possible.

This offer must be shown to your service advisor and presented before the time of write-up.
Cannot be combined with any other offer. Taxes and fees do not apply. Valid only at Cox Mazda.
Posted in Change a Flat Tire