How To Replace A GMC Flat Tire

Having a flat tire is a common, albeit frustrating, occurrence for any driver. However, knowing how to replace a flat tire is a vital skill that every GMC owner should have. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps to replace a flat tire on your GMC vehicle.

Preparatory Steps

Before we start replacing a flat tire, there are a few things you need to ensure:

• Parking: Make sure your car is parked in a safe and level location. Put your vehicle in "Park" (automatic transmission) or in first gear (manual transmission). Engage the parking brake to prevent any movement during the process.
• Tools: Gather all necessary tools. This includes the vehicle's jack, lug wrench, fully inflated spare tire, and your vehicle's owner's manual for any specific instructions. Some vehicles might also have wheel wedges, which are used to further secure the car.

Procedure to Replace a Flat Tire

Follow these steps to replace a flat tire on your GMC:

• Secure the Vehicle

To prevent the vehicle from rolling, place wheel wedges, if available, in front of or behind the tires that will remain on the ground.

• Remove the Hubcap or Wheel Cover

If your GMC has one, it may be easier to remove the hubcap or wheel cover before lifting the vehicle with the jack. If your GMC has a wheel cover with a GMC logo, it can be removed using the flat end of your lug wrench.

• Loosen the Lug Nuts

Using the lug wrench, turn the lug nuts counterclockwise until you break their resistance. You might need to use force, and that's okay. Loosen the lug nuts about ¼ to ½ of a turn, but don't remove them completely yet.

• Position the Jack

Place the jack in the correct spot under your vehicle. The right place to put the jack is usually beneath the vehicle frame alongside the tire that's flat. Check your owner's manual if you are unsure about jack placement.

• Raise the Vehicle with the Jack

Ensure the jack is securely positioned and then raise the vehicle off the ground. Don't raise the vehicle any higher than necessary.

• Unscrew the Lug Nuts

Now it's time to remove the lug nuts all the way. Since you've already loosened them, you should be able to unscrew them mostly by hand.

• Remove the Flat Tire

Grip the flat tire by the treads and pull it toward you until it's completely off. Set it on its side so that it doesn't roll away.

• Mount the Spare Tire

Place the spare on the hub. Align the rim with the lug bolts and push the spare all the way onto the vehicle.

• Tighten the Lug Nuts by Hand

Once the spare is on, put the lug nuts on the lug bolts and tighten them as much as you can by hand.

• Lower the Vehicle and Tighten the Lug Nuts Again

Use the jack to lower the vehicle so that the spare tire is touching the ground but not bearing the full weight of the vehicle. At this point, you should tighten the lug nuts as much as possible.

• Lower the Vehicle Completely

Lower the vehicle all the way, and then remove the jack. Give the lug nuts another pull with the wrench to ensure they're as tight as possible.

• Replace the Hubcap or Wheel Cover

If your vehicle has a hubcap or wheel cover that you removed, it can be replaced now.

After Changing the Flat Tire

After you have successfully replaced the flat tire, it's important to check the tire pressure on the spare tire as soon as possible. It's also crucial to take your vehicle to a professional to have the tire replaced or fixed, as the spare tire is not meant to be driven on for long distances or at high speeds.

Replacing a Flat Tire

Knowing how to replace a flat tire on your GMC is a valuable skill. With the right tools and this guide, you'll be able to handle this common roadside issue safely and effectively. Always remember to drive safely, and make sure to replace or repair your spare tire after use to be prepared for any future incidents.