Here are the key steps to changing a tire safely and effectively:
1. Park your car in a safe, level place off the road. Engage the parking brake and turn off the engine.
2. Locate your spare tire, jack, and lug wrench. The spare should be stored under the trunk floor or attached to the underside of the vehicle.
3. Loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire by turning them counterclockwise about one turn while the wheel is still on the ground. Do not remove them yet.
4. Position the jack under the vehicle according to your owner's manual. Most cars can be jacked up using a designated jack point near the flat tire.