Standard Procedure for Changing a Flat Tire

Description

This process involves safely securing the vehicle, loosening lug nuts, using the jack correctly, swapping the tire, and properly tightening the lug nuts.

Recipe/Instructions

1. Safety First: Pull over to a safe, level location away from traffic. Turn on hazard lights and engage the parking brake firmly. Place wheel chocks (or rocks/wood) behind the wheel diagonally opposite the flat tire for extra security.
2. Gather Equipment: Retrieve the spare tire, jack, and lug wrench from your vehicle (usually in the trunk).
3. Loosen Lug Nuts: While the car is still on the ground, use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire by turning them counterclockwise about half a turn to one full turn. Do not remove them completely yet. (They may be tight).
4. Position Jack: Consult your vehicle owner's manual to find the correct jack point near the flat tire (usually a reinforced part of the frame). Position the jack securely under this point.
5. Raise Vehicle: Operate the jack to raise the vehicle until the flat tire is completely off the ground with enough clearance to remove it.
6. Remove Lug Nuts & Tire: Fully unscrew the loosened lug nuts by hand and keep them together (e.g., in a hubcap or pocket). Grasp the flat tire firmly and pull it straight off the wheel studs. Lay it flat under the vehicle frame near the jack for added safety in case the jack fails.
7. Mount Spare Tire: Align the spare tire with the wheel studs and push it firmly onto them until it sits flat against the hub.
8. Install Lug Nuts: Put the lug nuts back on by hand and tighten them snugly in a star or crisscross pattern until the wheel is held securely.
9. Lower Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle using the jack until the spare tire touches the ground and supports the car's weight.
10. Fully Tighten Lug Nuts: Use the lug wrench to fully tighten the lug nuts firmly in the same star/crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure. Put significant force into this step.
11. Final Steps: Remove the jack and wheel chocks. Stow the flat tire and equipment. Check the spare tire's pressure as soon as possible and get the flat tire repaired or replaced.

What makes the Dish Special

N/A - Details the universally accepted safe method for roadside tire changes, emphasizing stability and proper tightening.