How to Change Spare Tire 06-10 Ford Explorer
Difficulty: Intermediate · About 45 min · Ford Explorer
Retrieve and install the spare tire on a 2006–2010 Ford Explorer, using the vehicle's lifting points and stable support while changing a wheel on level ground.
Tools you will need
- Tire iron
- Vehicle jack
- Wheel chocks
- Wood block
Steps
- Secure the Explorer and lower the spare
Park on firm, level ground, select Park, set the parking brake, and turn on the hazard lights. Retrieve the jack tools, lower the spare with the hoist, and release its retainer from the wheel.
- Prepare the vehicle for lifting
Chock a wheel on the opposite side of the same axle and loosen the flat tire's lug nuts slightly while the tire is on the ground. Place the jack at the designated lift point and raise the vehicle only enough to clear the tire.
- Remove the damaged wheel
Once the vehicle is stable at the lift point, remove the lug nuts and take the wheel off. Keep hands and feet clear of the vehicle and never place any part of your body underneath a jack-supported vehicle.
- Mount the spare wheel
Place the spare against the hub and start every lug nut by hand to avoid cross-threading. Snug the nuts evenly in a crossing pattern, lower the vehicle until the tire contacts the ground, then tighten to the manufacturer's specification.
- Stow the removed wheel and tools
Lower the vehicle fully and confirm it is stable before removing the jack. Secure the flat wheel in the spare carrier, raise the carrier until retained, and return the jack tools to their storage compartment.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.