We at Jim White Lexus of Toledo want you to be prepared for anything when you're on Highway 24. Read this overview constructed by our team members to learn how you can change a flat tire if you ever encounter one.
Preparation
One of the most important parts of changing a flat tire is having the necessary tools to do so safely. Most Lexus vehicles come with a spare tire in the trunk or cargo area. Located next to it is the car jack, which is used to lift the vehicle off of the pavement. You will also want to make sure that you have a lug wrench and a tire pressure gauge. It's also recommended to bring along an air compressor, which could be used to top off the pressure of your spare tire. Emergency materials can also help you prepare for a situation where you're stranded and cold. A blanket, hand warmers, and a first aid kit can all be vital in our Toledo winter weather.
Removing a Flat Tire
If you're driving to Ottawa Park and notice your car suddenly pull to one side of the road and hear a thumping sound on the pavement, you likely have a flat tire. The first step is to slow down and pull over somewhere safe like a shoulder or a parking lot. Once you're out of the way of oncoming traffic, remove the aforementioned tools from your car. The jack should be placed under the metal frame of your Lexus RX 350, NX 350h, or ES 350 near the affected wheel. Then, using the wrench to loosen the nuts slightly and then lift the car a few inches off the ground by pumping the lever on the jack. Now you can fully remove each lug nut and take the wheel off entirely. Check your Owner’s Manual to learn more about the process for your specific model.
Last Steps
Before you can depart, you’ll need to place the spare tire on the spot where the old one was. After that, screw each of the bolts back on slightly. If you try to tighten them completely, the wheel may spin, making it difficult to fasten them. To mitigate this, set the car back down by lowering the jack. Now, it will be much easier to finish tightening them using the wrench. Be sure to do so in a star-shaped pattern to secure the wheel evenly. Spare tires last only about 50 miles, so be sure to head to our Service Department to get a new one and to have us inspect or repair your flat tire.
Can Flat Tires Be Repaired?
- When the damage to your tire is not too severe and is located away from the sidewalls, the puncture can often be repaired!