How to Change a Tire

Flat Tire Safety: Your Essential Guide in Boston

A flat tire can happen when you least expect it, especially navigating the roads around Boston. Knowing how to safely and properly change a tire can save you time and stress, getting you back on the road fast. While changing a tire is a straightforward process, your safety is always the first priority. Always follow these steps to manage a flat tire situation.

Tools You'll Need to Change a Tire

Before you begin, make sure you have the following essential equipment. These items are typically found in the trunk of your Honda:

You'll need a jack, a lug wrench, your spare tire (or a new tire), and your Owner's Manual for specific instructions for your Honda model. Always consult your manual for the proper jack points to avoid vehicle damage.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Honda Tire

Follow these steps closely to ensure a safe and proper tire change:

• Pull Over Safely: As soon as you realize you have a flat, find a flat, level area far away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights and engage the parking brake.
• Prepare the Wheel: Locate the lug wrench and use it to slightly loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire. You may need to remove a hubcap first. Turn the wrench counter-clockwise, but do not remove the lug nuts completely yet.
• Jack Up the Vehicle: Use the jack to raise your Honda until the flat tire is completely off the ground. Refer to your Owner's Manual to find the correct jack points on the frame.
• Remove the Flat Tire: Now, completely remove the lug nuts and store them safely. Pull the flat tire straight toward you to remove it from the wheel mount.
• Mount the Spare: Place the spare tire onto the wheel mount, aligning the lug nut posts with the holes. Hand-tighten the lug nuts until the wheel is secure.
• Final Tightening: Lower the car back down to the ground. Use the lug wrench to fully tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern (tightening opposite nuts incrementally) to ensure even pressure.

Remember that a compact spare tire is temporary and should not be driven over 50 MPH or for more than 50 miles. Visit us immediately for a new tire.

Schedule Professional Tire Service at Parkway Honda of Boston

While a DIY change gets you out of a jam, the team at Parkway Honda of Boston is here for your long-term tire care needs. Whether you need a full tire replacement, a tire rotation, or professional mounting and balancing, our certified technicians are ready to help. After using your spare tire, or if you're ever in doubt, schedule your tire service appointment with us today. Check out our service specials for great savings on your next auto repair or tire service.