Lesson One
No one enjoys changing tyres and it can be a scary situation when driving and you hear that horrible sound! However, being prepared for this situation will help keep you calm and composed, knowing you are able to fix it yourself!
It is difficult to avoid when driving, but with a bit of preparation and understanding, you can be back on the road in under 30 minutes.
Although expect a lot of hard work and sadly a much dirtier look than before it happened.
It is essential that you don’t drive around without a spare tyre and the tool kit you need. Most likely these tools and spare Tyre will be kept in the boot of your car. Check under the boot floor for the secret compartment that keeps these safe.
What you need to check for is the following items – Take them out every once in a while, try them out to make sure you are comfortable using them. The Jack is often the trickiest for those changing a tyre for the first time, so get some practice in before you start driving!
Round circle that looks like a tyre not attached to the car.
Looks complicated and needs some practice.
Long pipe with a socket at the top, fits over the wheel nuts.
3-sided item that lets other know you’re broken down.
It is best to keep your tyres in the best shape possible to help prevent issues down the road. Avoid any potholes and objects on the road if you can without causing an accident. Regularly check your tyre pressure at a petrol station and inspect the tread on your tyres each month to ensure they are not getting too smooth.
Practice at home with the tools you are going to need. Check that the tyre is not too heavy to pick up and is not flat. Try out the Jack till you are comfortable raising and lowering the adjustment lever. Try tightening and loosening the Lug nuts on the tyre to get the hang of it!
No tyre lasts forever, so if they are looking a bit rough then take your car in to a Tyre workshop to be checked for replacement or rotation as needed.
What is a Jack?