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How to Change a Flat Tire in San Antonio

Cavender Buick GMC West

    Changing a flat Tire
      Even though most Buick and GMC vehicles come equipped with roadside assistance, it’s never a bad idea to be equipped with the know-how of how to change flat tire. Changing a flat only requires the right set of tools and just enough physical effort to make sure the job is done thoroughly and safely. Check out the tips below on how to change a flat tire.

      Locate a safe place to change tire

      If you’re on a San Antonio highway when a tire blows, try pulling as far away from traffic as possible. Your vehicle must be on flat, stable ground before changing its tire. Avoid changing tires on a hill or soft ground where potential rolling can occur. 

      Hazards and reflector lights

      Always turn your hazard lights on when performing any type of maintenance job to warn drivers of your presence. You can increase your visibility to others by investing in a reflector triangle. 

      Place weighty object near tires

      While your car is in park (or first gear, depending on your transmission), place a heavy object, such as a rock, in front of each tire. 

      Obtain jack lift

      Before using a jack lift, access your vehicle’s manual as the location of the jack lift differs on Buick and GMC models. When you’ve attached the jack lift, hitch your vehicle at least six inches off the ground.

      Remove lug nuts

      You will need a wrench to perform this next job. The wrench needs to be turned counterclockwise when removing the lug nuts. Once the lugs are removed, pull the tire from the wheelbase. Keep all lugs together in one space.

      Note: If you drive an older GM model, it’s likely equipped with reversed threaded lug nuts. Click here to contact a member from our service department for more information.

      Prepare spare

      Retrieve the removed lug nuts and place them in the holes in the spare tire. They do not have to be screwed in tightly, but just tight enough for the tire to be in place before jacking the car down.

      Attach spare

      Once the lug nuts are secured in the spare, push the spare tire all the way to the wheelbase.

      Lower vehicle

      Jack the vehicle down to level ground, and remove the jack lift from underneath the vehicle.Need assistance changing a flat tire? Click here to schedule a service appointment with our certified service department! Our experienced service team will ensure your tires are pumped, tight and ready to roll!