How to Change a Flat Tire in Houston, TX

A great deal of driving safety comes down to being prepared for the unexpected. That's why we at Easy Honda put together this overview about how to change a flat tire if you encounter one in Houston.
Tools

Before you even embark on your journey down I-45, it's important that you have all of the tools on hand required for changing a flat tire. For example, a spare tire is essential to get you back on the road. In order to install it, you are going to need a car jack that can lift up your Honda Accord, Civic Sedan, or CR-V. This will come with a lever that is used to pump the hydraulics. Another tool that you will need is a lug wrench. Also known as a torque wrench, this has the ability to remove the nuts that are fastened to the wheel’s bolts on your vehicle. Other emergency supplies, like a first-aid kit, can also benefit you. Use a portable air compressor to refill any tires that are low before leaving for Market Square Park.

First Steps

Have you noticed that one of your car’s tires has gone flat on your daily commute? The first course of action is to get to a safe spot off of the road. If there are no parking lots nearby, a shoulder on the side of the street can suffice as long as there is not too much traffic. Next, take the aforementioned resources out of your car’s trunk and begin loosening the bolts on the affected wheel. If multiple tires are flat, you may need a towing service, but if only one is low you can remove it and install the spare. After you have slightly unscrewed the bolts, use the car jack to hoist the vehicle up a few inches from the pavement. Then, finish taking the wheel off! Reach out to our Service Department staff if you need help along the way.

Install the Spare

In place of the flat tire, you will now install your car’s spare. This can be placed on the bolts where the old one was. After that, screw the nuts back onto the bolts by hand to keep it secure. Once you can’t tighten them further, lower the car back onto the ground and finish twisting them with the torque wrench. By only using the wrench once the car has been returned to the pavement, you will prevent the wheel from spinning unintentionally during the process. It is now safe to resume your trip, but be sure to visit our nearby location sometime soon. Spare tires are only rated to last about 50 miles, so it’s not wise to travel too far without getting service.