How To Replace A Lexus Flat Tire
The initial step in dealing with a flat tire is recognizing you have one. Some indications might include a sudden deflation noise, vibration, your car pulling in one direction, or a low tire pressure warning light. If you notice these signs, find a safe, stable place to pull over and confirm that you have a flat tire.
Gathering Necessary Tools
Before you start, ensure you have all the required tools for the task. A typical flat tire repair kit should include a car jack, lug wrench, wheel wedges, and a fully inflated spare tire. Your Lexus manual will provide the details on the appropriate tools for your specific model and where they are located in your vehicle.
Using Wheel Wedges
Wheel wedges are important for ensuring your car stays stable while you're replacing the tire. If your flat tire is at the back, place these in front of the front wheels, and if it's at the front, place the wedges behind the rear wheels.
Loosening the Lug Nuts
With the lug wrench, begin to loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire. You should turn the wrench counter-clockwise until the lug nuts are loose but do not remove them entirely at this stage.
Jacking Up the Vehicle
Identify the correct spot to position the jack using your Lexus owner's manual. Once properly positioned, crank the jack until the flat tire is elevated off the ground.
Removing the Flat Tire
Now you can fully remove the lug nuts. After that, pull off the flat tire and set it aside in a safe spot.
Installing the Spare Tire
Place the spare tire onto the hub by aligning it with the lug bolts. Push it all the way in, then partially screw the lug nuts back on by hand, but do not fully tighten them yet.
Lowering the Vehicle
Begin to slowly lower the vehicle using the jack. Once the car is stable on the ground, you can now tighten the lug nuts fully. Remember to do this in a star pattern to ensure the wheel is balanced.
Checking Spare Tire Pressure
It's crucial to check the spare tire pressure as soon as possible. Spare tires usually require a higher pressure than regular tires, and your vehicle's manual will give you the correct PSI.
Seeking Professional Service
Remember, your spare tire isn't meant for long-term use. After replacing a flat tire, it's recommended to visit a professional tire service. They can repair your flat tire or help you select a new one if necessary.
Lexus Flat Tire
Dealing with a flat tire can be a common occurrence in vehicle ownership. Knowing how to replace a flat tire on your Lexus can save you time, and potentially, a lot of stress. Always prioritize your safety on the road, and remember to regularly check your tire pressures. Once you've replaced a flat tire with a spare, ensure to visit a professional as soon as possible.