How to Change a Tire on a VW Atlas

When you're driving on the roads of Oklahoma City, Norman, and Edmond in your Volkswagen Atlas, the last thing you want to think about is a tire issue. Unfortunately, there may come a time during one of your commutes when you'll need to change a tire. Whether it's due to a flat or a blowout, the team at Oklahoma City Volkswagen is here to help.

Below, you'll find our guide about how to change a tire on a VW Atlas. With the right tools and these steps, you'll be fully prepared. Let's jump right in.

VW Atlas Spare Tire Location

Before you begin to change your tire, you'll need to locate your spare. In the Volkswagen Atlas, it's easy to find since it's conveniently stored under your cargo floor.

Open the back of your VW Atlas and fold down the third row of seating. Then, remove the flooring, and you'll not only find your spare tire but also a jack as well. Now, it's time to get started.

Changing Your VW Atlas Tire

In addition to the jack, you'll need some other equipment to change your tire safely. Having your owner's manual nearby can also be handy. Before you get to work, locate the needed tools, including:

• Lug wrench
• Wheel wedges
• Flashlight (if changing the tire in the dark)

Follow these steps to easily change your tire:

1. Make sure your VW Atlas is in a safe location on level ground. This will make accessing the tire easier. Then, turn on your hazard lights and apply the parking brake while your engine is turned off.
2. Apply the wheel wedges to ensure your vehicle stays in place. Do this on both the front and back tires. If you don't have wheel wedges, heavy rocks or pieces of wood will also work.
3. Place the jack under the frame of the car. Make sure it's in a strong point of your car frame and remains steady.
4. Remove the hubcap and use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts from the tire you need to change. Make sure not to completely unscrew the lug nuts.
5. Raise your vehicle using the jack. You'll want your tire to be about six inches off the ground. Remember: never place any of your body parts under the vehicle while it's raised.
6. Fully unscrew the lug nuts and remove the tire. Start by pulling it gently toward you, then set it on its side to prevent it from rolling away
7. Mount the spare tire by pushing gently on the hub until the lug bolts show through the rim.
8. Put the lug nuts back on the tire and tighten them by hand. Once they're all on, tighten them again as much as possible with your hands.
9. Lower your Volkswagen Atlas to the ground, then use your lug wrench to tighten the nuts fully until they're as tight as possible.
10. Replace the hubcap, remove the jack from the vehicle, and put away all your equipment. It's that easy! Note: Don't forget to check the pressure in your spare before driving and fill it up if it needs more pressure.

Final Step: Get Your Tire Replaced at Oklahoma City Volkswagen

Now that you've successfully changed the tire, it's time to outfit your VW Atlas with a non-spare tire. This is because spares can only be driven for a short period of time and should not exceed speeds of approximately 50 MPH.

In our tire center, our technicians will be able to give your vehicle the tire it needs, making your Oklahoma City, Norman, and Edmond commutes safe again.