“Change is inevitable”. - Benjamin Disraeli
Everyone should know how to change a tyre.
First off, always make sure your spare is in good condition, particularly before a long road trip.Driving on a flat tyre can not only damage your tyre rim, but also in some case lead to further vehicle damage.
In the case of a flat tyre, pull over as soon as you can and follow these steps.
How to Change a Tyre: 101
Step 1: Park the vehicle in a safe location, preferably on a level, hard surface. Apply the parking brake and put the vehicle in 'Park' (automatic) or in gear (manual).
Step 2: Chock the wheel diagonally opposite the wheel you are going to remove with a suitable object. If you are on a slope, always chock the wheel on the low side of the slope.
Step 3: Remove the spare wheel and the jack from their storage locations.
Step 4: Remove the hubcap (if fitted) and only just loosen the wheels nuts, DO NOT remove them.
Step 5: Raise the car with the jack, being careful to use the correct jacking point, until the tyre clears the ground.
Step 6: Remove the wheel nuts then remove the wheel from the vehicle using a proper lifting technique.
Step 7: Place the spare wheel on the vehicle, again using a proper lifting technique, and lightly tighten the wheel nuts ensuring the nut is correctly seated. Care should be taken not to 'cross thread' the nut and wheel stud.
Step 8: Lower the car and remove the jack.
Step 9: Now that the wheel is on the ground, tighten the wheel nuts with the wheel brace and replace the hubcap (if it was fitted).
Step 10: Place the removed wheel and jack back in their storage places, and remove the wheel chock.
You should have the damaged tyre repaired or replaced ASAP. See your tyre specialist at your local Tyres & More store.