Shop TalkBack on Track: A Step-by-Step Guide to Off-Road Tire Changes

C.G.Racine

August 9, 2024

You’re out in the middle of nowhere, having a blast when bam—flat tire. No cell service, no help around. Changing a tire in an off-road environment is a whole different beast compared to doing it on a paved road. Uneven terrain, mud, rocks, and sometimes sheer isolation can make the task more challenging. Sounds rough, right? But with the right tools and a cool head, you’ll be back on the trail in no time.

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off-roading tips

flat tire guide

off-road tire change

tire changing tips

Before you tackle those trails, double-check your gear. You’ll need a jack, a cross-lug wrench for extra muscle, a good spare tire, and some work gloves. Also, pack a board or something flat and sturdy to stabilize your jack.

First, drive to a level spot with solid ground to change your tire. Safety first! Engage the parking brake and use wheel chocks if you have them to keep your vehicle from moving. Before jacking up the vehicle, loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire. Don’t remove them completely yet, just get them loose enough to remove easily once the tire is off the ground.

offroad flat — Photo Credit: Kenny Eliason

Position your high-lift jack under a secure lifting point and lift the vehicle until the flat tire is off the ground. Finish unscrewing the lug nuts and remove the flat tire. Align the spare tire with the wheel studs, push it into place, and screw the lug nuts on loosely.

Pro Eagle Jack — Photo Credit: Jonathan Hanson

Lower your ride back to the ground, tighten those lug nuts nice and snug, and toss that flat in the back. You’re good to go! Don’t forget to pop the spare back on before your next adventure—better safe than sorry!

Changing a flat tire off-road doesn't have to be a headache. With these simple steps, you'll be back on the trail in no time. Got any tips or off-road stories? Share them in the comments below!