You're driving home after a long day when suddenly you feel a wobble and hear that dreaded thump-thump sound.

Your steering feels heavier, and you know instantly—it's a flat tire. It's one of those moments no driver wants, but it happens to almost everyone at some point.

Knowing exactly what to do can save you stress, time, and even money.

Stay Calm and Get Safe

The first thing to do is stay calm and look for a safe spot to pull over. Slow down gradually and steer toward the shoulder or a parking lot away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. If you have reflective triangles or flares, place them a few feet behind your car to make yourself more visible. Safety is your top priority before even thinking about tools.

Gather Your Tools

Most cars come with the basic gear you'll need. Check your trunk or cargo area for:

1. A spare tire (make sure it's properly inflated)

2. A jack

3. A lug wrench

4. Your car's manual (helpful if you've never done this before)

If you have extras like gloves, a flashlight, or a kneeling pad, even better. Being prepared ahead of time makes this process smoother.

Loosen the Lug Nuts

Before lifting the car, slightly loosen the lug nuts while the tire is still on the ground. This prevents the wheel from spinning while you try to turn them. Use the lug wrench to turn each nut counterclockwise just enough to break them free, but don't remove them completely yet. This step can be tough—use your body weight if needed.

Lift the Car Safely

Find the jack point nearest to the flat tire, which is usually marked under the frame. Place the jack securely and raise the car until the flat tire is about two inches off the ground. Never put any part of your body under the car while it's jacked up. Stability matters—make sure the car feels steady before continuing.

Remove the Flat Tire

Now fully remove the loosened lug nuts and place them somewhere safe so they don't roll away. Carefully pull the tire straight off and set it aside. This step can feel heavy, so take your time and keep your hands clear of the sharp edges.

Install the Spare Tire

Line up the holes in the spare tire with the bolts on the wheel hub. Push it on until it sits flush. Then hand-tighten the lug nuts back on. This ensures the tire stays in place as you lower the car.

Lower and Tighten

Slowly lower the car back to the ground and remove the jack. Once the tire is firmly on the ground, use the lug wrench to fully tighten the nuts. Tighten in a crisscross pattern (top, bottom, opposite side) so the wheel seats evenly. Double-check that they're snug and secure.

Check Tire Pressure

If you have a tire gauge, check the pressure of your spare. If it's too low, drive carefully to the nearest gas station and fill it to the recommended level listed in your car manual or on the driver's side door frame.

Drive Cautiously

Remember that most spare tires are “donut” types meant only for temporary use. Keep your speed under 50 mph and get your regular tire repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Driving too far on a spare can damage your car's suspension or brakes.

Prevent Future Flats

You can reduce the chances of another flat by checking your tire pressure monthly, rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,000 miles, and inspecting them for nails or cracks. Keeping a roadside emergency kit in your car can also make these moments less stressful.

Getting a flat tire is never fun, but handling it with confidence feels surprisingly empowering. The next time it happens, you won't panic—you'll just get to work. Taking a few minutes to learn and practice this skill today could save you from being stranded tomorrow.