Discovering a flat tire on your Chevy can be stressful, but knowing how to handle the situation can help you get back on the road quickly and safely. Whether you drive a Chevy Equinox, Silverado, Malibu, or Traverse, understanding how to change a flat tire is an essential skill for all drivers. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process and offer practical tips to ensure the job is done right.
Step 1: Pull Over to a Safe Spot
As soon as you notice a flat tire, find a safe location away from traffic. Look for a level surface to prevent your vehicle from rolling while you work. Engage the parking brake and turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers that you’re performing a roadside repair.
Step 2: Gather Tools and Spare Tire
Most Chevy vehicles come with a spare tire, jack, and lug wrench, usually stored in the trunk, under the rear cargo area, or beneath the vehicle. Consult your owner’s manual to locate them if you’re unsure. Some models, like Silverado, may have a spare mounted underneath the truck bed.
Step 3: Loosen Lug Nuts
Before raising the vehicle, use the lug wrench to break the lug nuts loose. Don’t remove them completely yet—just loosen them enough so they turn easily once the tire is off the ground. This step prevents the wheel from spinning when you lift the vehicle.
Step 4: Jack Up Your Chevy
Place the jack at the designated jack point closest to the flat tire. These points are typically reinforced spots designed to safely support the vehicle’s weight. Carefully raise the vehicle until the flat tire is completely off the ground.
Step 5: Remove the Flat Tire
Fully unscrew and remove the loosened lug nuts. Set them aside in a safe place to avoid losing them. Pull the flat tire off the wheel studs and lay it flat on the ground to prevent it from rolling away.
Step 6: Install the Spare Tire
Line up the spare tire with the wheel studs and slide it into place. Hand-tighten the lug nuts to hold the tire securely before lowering the vehicle.
Step 7: Lower and Tighten Lug Nuts
Slowly lower your Chevy until the spare tire touches the ground. Fully tighten the lug nuts using a crisscross pattern. This even tightening ensures the wheel seats properly against the hub, reducing the risk of wobbling while driving.
Step 8: Check Tire Pressure and Drive Cautiously
If you have a tire pressure gauge, check the spare tire’s pressure before driving. Compact spares (also called donut spares) often require higher pressure than regular tires. Drive cautiously and limit your speed until you can get a proper replacement tire.
Flat Tire in Chevy
If you’re ever unsure about changing a flat tire or want to ensure your Chevy’s tires are in top shape, visit Sarchione Chevy of Randolph. Our certified technicians provide expert tire services, including rotations, inspections, and replacements. While you’re here, explore our wide selection of new and pre-owned Chevy vehicles, from rugged trucks to fuel-efficient SUVs.