How to Change a Car Tire in an Emergency on the Road

Although it may seem simple, changing a tire on the road can be quite challenging and risky. You must assess traffic conditions to ensure the tire-changing process is safe and goes smoothly.

Car tires are components that come into direct contact with the road surface. As a result, their condition directly affects driving comfort and safety.

That’s why knowing the proper way to change a car tire is an essential skill for all drivers. Problems like a flat, deflated, or burst tire can happen unexpectedly—even while the car is moving down the road.

Although it may seem simple, changing a tire on the road can be quite challenging and risky. You must assess traffic conditions to ensure the tire-changing process is safe and goes smoothly.

Preparations Before Changing a Car Tire

Before you start changing a car tire, move the car to the safest location possible. If available, choose a road shoulder that is wide enough, has a relatively flat surface, and is not located on a curve or in an area with limited visibility.

Don’t forget to turn on your hazard lights and set up a warning triangle to alert other vehicles. Then, gather the necessary equipment, such as:

Jack
Wheel wrench
Spare tire
Flashlight or work light, especially at night

5 Ways to Safely Change a Car Tire

Once everything is ready, safely change the tire by following these steps.

1. Loosen the Wheel Bolts

Loosen the wheel bolts first before lifting the car with the jack. However, do not remove the bolts completely. Just loosen them while the tire is still in contact with the road surface.

2. Position the Jack at the Correct Point

Place the jack at the correct lifting point. The jack’s position differs when changing front versus rear tires.

Changing a front tire: The jack should be positioned on the chassis or lower frame, located directly behind the tire
Changing a rear tire: The jack must be positioned on the chassis or main frame, located directly in front of the tire

Also make sure the jack is on a hard, stable surface. After that, slowly lift the car until the tire is slightly raised off the road surface.

3. Remove the Faulty Tire

After the lug nuts have been loosened and the car is raised off the road surface, remove all the lug nuts. Then, gently pull the tire off its mounting. If the tire is difficult to remove, do not force it by putting yourself in a risky position.

4. Install the Spare Tire

Take the spare tire, then align the lug nut holes with the wheel hub. Next, gently push the tire so it locks onto the hub.

Hand-tighten the lug nuts first to ensure proper alignment. Once all lug nuts are in place, tighten them securely with a lug wrench.

5. Lower the Car and Tighten the Lug Nuts

Slowly lower the car until the tire touches the road surface again. Afterward, retighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure on the wheel.

Once finished, make sure no tools are left on the road. Put away the damaged tire, jack, and lug wrench before continuing your journey.

The Dangers of Driving on Unroadworthy Tires

Worn-out or damaged tires can cause a loss of traction, especially when driving on wet roads. Additionally, poor tire condition can affect stability and braking performance.

Therefore, don’t wait until a tire blows out to inspect them. A simple check before setting out can minimize potential problems and hazards on the road.

If you feel something is wrong with a tire while driving, gradually reduce your speed and steer to a safe location. Avoid sudden braking or maneuvers that could cause you to lose control of the vehicle.

TRAC Car Rental Includes Roadside Assistance

Problems like flat tires or technical issues on the road can certainly disrupt your plans. But with TRAC’s car rental service, you won’t have to face those tough situations alone.

TRAC’s service includes roadside assistance. If you encounter trouble on the road, you’ll receive help as soon as possible. A replacement car is even available if needed.

TRAC offers daily, monthly, and even annual car rental services. The selection of vehicles is diverse, so you can choose one that suits your needs. Plus, their condition is guaranteed to be safe and in top shape because they’re regularly inspected and serviced.

TRAC is a business unit of PT Serasi Autotaya (SERA), which is also part of the Astra Group, and has over 39 years of experience providing vehicle rental services to both companies and individuals.

For more information about TRAC’s services, visit the TRAC website at https://www.trac.astra.co.id/ and follow us on social media: