How to Change a Flat Tire in Chicago, IL

Whether you’re a new driver or a veteran motorist, it’s likely that a flat tire could delay your travels at some point! This is inconvenient, but it doesn’t have to bring your Chicago adventures to an end. Our team at Kingdom Chevy has put together a step-by-step guide that will help you feel more prepared to change a tire.

Gathering Your Tools 

Since you never know when a flat tire might occur, it’s a good idea to keep anything you might need inside your Equinox, Trailblazer, or Traverse. This includes the spare tire, a jack, and a lug or torque wrench. Wheel wedges can help to prevent the car from rolling while you work. Even if your vehicle is equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System, a tire gauge will allow you to confirm the reading before you resume your I-80 commute. Last but not least, make sure that you know where the Owner’s Manual for your Chevrolet is, since it has important information that will make your job easier.

Getting Started 

When you notice that your Chevrolet has a flat tire, quickly find a safe, level, and well-lit place to park, far away from traffic. Set the parking brake and turn on your hazard lights to signal your presence to other drivers. Gently loosen the lug nuts, but only by about half a turn of the wrench. Next, install the jack at the ideal location listed in the Owner’s Manual and raise the vehicle by a few inches. At this point, you can finish unscrewing the lug nuts, then pull the flat tire off the bolts. If you have questions about this process or any other maintenance concerns that you need help with before your next trip to the Lincoln Park Zoo, fill out the Ask a Tech form on our website.

Final Steps 

Once the flat tire has been removed, put it aside and grab the spare. Place it on the bolts and lightly screw in the lug nuts by hand, but remember not to tighten them all the way. Before completing that step, use the jack to lower the car to the ground so that the wheels don’t spin. Finish securing the nuts in a star pattern, or alternate tightening the ones on each side if there is an even number. Finally, look in the Owner’s Manual to find the correct pressure level for the spare tire, so that you can refill it if necessary. Spare tires are only designed to last for around 50 miles, so you will need to visit our Service Department at Kingdom Chevy for a sturdier replacement!