How to change a flat tire

Knowing how to fit the spare is worth practising before you need it at the roadside.

DifficultyEasy
Time15–30 min

Tools

  • Jack and wheel brace (usually under the boot floor)
  • Locking wheel nut key if fitted
  • Warning triangle and high-visibility vest

Parts & materials

  • Spare wheel or space-saver

Step by step

  1. Stop somewhere safe and level, away from traffic. Hazard lights on, parking brake on, place the warning triangle where it is legal and safe.
  2. Loosen each wheel nut half a turn while the wheel is still on the ground.
  3. Place the jack at the jacking point shown in the owner's manual and raise the car until the tire is off the ground.
  4. Remove the nuts and the wheel.
  5. Fit the spare, start all nuts by hand, then snug them in a star pattern.
  6. Lower the car and tighten the nuts fully in a star pattern; use a torque wrench as soon as possible.
  7. Check the spare's pressure. Space-savers are usually limited to 80 km/h (50 mph).

Safety: Never put any part of your body under a car supported only by a jack.

Procedures differ between vehicles. Check your vehicle's service information for specifications, torque values and any special steps.

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