You do know JACK!

I have a confession. A while ago, I got a flat tire and I forgot how to change it. Don't get me wrong, I've been driving for a long time and the last time I changed a flat tire was when I started driving so the problem never arose. You might be saying to yourself that changing a flat tire is like riding a bike because once you learn, you never forget. Well, I didn't want to make an uncertain attempt at changing the tire at the risk of ruining something. That, and I was also on my way to a place where I couldn't have my hands or clothes dirty :) So, I vowed that it would be my last time to call upon AAA for flat tire help. I went home, did my research, and I present to you a step-by-step process so you too will not have to rely on a greasy and musky smelling guy to change your tire. With a little strength and willingness to get dirty, you'll be on your way in no time.

1. Bring Jack

The jack is your best friend in a time of a flat tire crisis. Make sure your car has one in the trunk...and make sure it works. There's the tripod, scissor but I recommend a hydraulic jack just because it's faster and safer and also it's less expensive. If you're unsure about how to raise your car using the jack, here's a cheat sheet: use the owner's manual.

2. Lug Nuts

It's best to loosen the lug nuts on the tires before jacking up the car. It's something that many motorists forget to do. The reason for this is because once the car is jacked, the wheel turns freely and makes it hard to unscrew the lug nuts. Before attacking the lug nuts, you'll need to use a screwdriver or some wrench or tool with a flat head to pry off the hubcap or rim. This is where your muscles will come into because the lug nuts are screwed on using power tools.

3. Jack It Up

Now with the lug nuts loose, you can jack up your car. Find a spot under the car where it can rest securely on the jack. This is imperative. Raise the car with smooth up and down strokes until the tire is completely off the ground. Then completely remove the lugs.

4. Spare Yourself The Trouble

Have your spare ready and make sure there's sufficient air in it. Also, make sure you check your spare tire periodically in case it loses air or whatnot. Now, pull off the flat tire and make sure it clears the studs. Now pick up the spare tire and place it on the studs. Making sure the spare tire is in place, replace the lug nuts back on securely and then lower the car to the ground using the jack. Then once the tire is on the ground, tighten it some more using the lug wrench. You can then choose to put the hubcap or rim back on or ride the wheel naked. Put the flat in your trunk and you're on your way!

Hopefully, these tips will save you the time and trouble a flat tire can bring. If not, then it's a great way to get a date. For guys, there's nothing more attractive then helping a damsel in distress. For girls, same applies and also, asking for help might bring you handsome helper. If you're thinking I'm a chauvinist 'cause I didn't mention the guy asking for help, it's because guys' egos probably wouldn't allow them to ask for help ;)

-Rack of Lam