How to Change a Flat Tire in Yucca Valley, CA
No one likes getting a flat tire, but with the correct equipment and necessary information, this problem won’t delay your adventures for long! Our team at Joshua Tree Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram has created a step-by-step guide that will help you handle the task with confidence.
Gathering Tools
Since you don’t know when your Durango, Grand Cherokee, or Pacifica may get a flat tire during your Route 62 commute, it’s a good idea to assemble an emergency kit that can be kept in the car. Begin by confirming that the spare tire is still in the trunk. The Owner’s Manual contains relevant information that will allow you to resume your Yucca Valley travels, so make sure that it is within reach. Next, find a jack and a lug or torque wrench. Even if your car has a Tire Pressure Monitor, a tire gauge will enable you to double-check the reading, while a portable inflator can be used to make necessary adjustments. Wheel wedges aren’t required, but they can be handy to prevent the vehicle from rolling as you work.
Getting Started
When you discover that your car has a flat tire, find a safe place to park. This is where you will be working, so the spot should be level, well-lit, and away from any traffic. After engaging the parking brake, put on the hazard lights to warn your fellow motorists. Loosen the lug nuts by a gentle half-turn, then refer to the Owner’s Manual for the ideal location to install the jack. Once you have lifted the vehicle, you can finish unscrewing the nuts, then pull the flat tire away from the bolts. If you have questions about this process, fill out the Ask a Tech form on our website for clarification before your next trip to Desert Christ Park.
Final Steps
Once the flat tire has been removed, install the spare in its place. Slightly tighten the nuts by hand, but don’t completely screw them in yet. Use the jack to lower the car to the ground, then finish securing the lug nuts by alternating between them in a star pattern. Finally, check the air pressure and inflate the tire if it is low. The recommended PSI for a spare will differ from that of a normal tire, so make sure to refer to the correct number in the Owner’s Manual. Spare tires are only designed to be used for a distance of 50 miles or less, but you can visit our Service Department at Joshua Tree Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram for a sturdier replacement!
Which Tools Are Needed to Change a Flat Tire?
- Spare tire
- Jack
- Lug or torque wrench
- Tire gauge
- Portable tire inflator
- Wheel wedges
- Your vehicle's Owner's Manual
Dealership Information
Testimonials
Great Place For Veterans
Ashley Bales - Ask For Her
“ We had Ashley help us pick out our first car together today, she had a great enthusiasm and was very helpful in the best car for us. Would do it all over it again! Best first experience that’s for sure! ”
Chris Lewallan Is Top Notch
“ Fantastic experience from start to finish. Chris and the team made buying my new car easy and smooth. They gave me a very competitive price that beat other dealers and were extremely accommodating and helpful throughout the entire process. Everything was straightforward and stress free. I could not recommend them more and will definitely be back in the future! ”
Let's Talk About Cory Hall
“ I came to the dealership with a old car on its last legs about to die and decided to check and see what we can possibly get. Well it was quite a shock and surprised to drive out with a new jeep compass. Only had 17 miles on it when I got the keys. Everyone there was amazing and chill. For a first time buyer I got more than what I expected to leave with. Cory was our guy and was very chill and quick to help guiding me through the process. Thank you Cory for helping my little family achieve a dream of owning a new car. Spur of the moment and a wonderful moment. Cory delivered a wholesome experience. Special shout out to the rest of the team as well all providing an equally special opportunity for this little family. We will always remember. Definitely recommend. Especially for the locals! ”
Ashley Is Amazing
“ I had such an amazing experience working with Ashley, she was truly outstanding from start to finish. Her customer service was exceptional, and she made the entire process feel comfortable, stress-free, and genuinely supportive. What really stood out to me was how well she helped with budget management. She took the time to understand what I could realistically afford and worked hard to find options that made sense for me financially - no pressure, no rushing, just honest guidance. Her communication was clear, patient, and consistent the entire time. She answered every question I had, explained everything in a way that was easy to understand, and made sure I felt confident in my decision. Buying a car can be overwhelming, but she made it feel smooth and even enjoyable. I truly felt respected, heard, and taken care of throughout the whole experience. I’m so grateful for her help and would absolutely recommend her to anyone looking for a trustworthy and professional car sales experience! ”
10 Stars
“ If I could out 10 stars definitely put it. the guys were straight up. No gimmicks, Great customer service. If you are veteran or active duty service, I highly recommend, they appreciate our service to our country, and hero as much as they can through the process. They definitely went above and beyond, especially with the delivery of my truck. They took in my old lease of my old truck paid it off, and helped me step into my new truck with no hassles. Jared the finance manager was straight up. And Cory the salesman, was so very friendly and accommodating and every question I asked. I would definitely recommend anyone looking to buy a used car or truck at good deal, come through this dealership in Josh’s tree. Again all staff was friendly and cooperative.. Dodge Ram Bighorn 1500 4x4 built to serve edition.. ”
No Games
“ I had a fantastic purchasing experience here! The team made buying my new Jeep incredibly easy and, most importantly, very fast. I really appreciated that their prices were upfront; I wasn't haggled or pressured into buying any extra add-ons I didn't want. If you're looking for a stress-free car buying process in Yucca Valley, this is the place to go! Thanks to Steve, my sales rep, Jared the finance guy and Kevin the sales consultant. Kudos! ”
Ashley and Russell
“ I want to give a shout out to Ashley, Russell, Steve and Jared. This is the first time I have been to this dealership under the new ownership and let me say WOW what a good crew they have there! Ashley introduced us to Russell who helped us get my Uncle with special needs into a truck he really wanted. Ashley followed us through and was checking up on us throughout the whole process even while dealing with her own customers. Steve was very patient with my uncle through the whole financing process and understood my uncle's set backs. Jared you are amazing, the hustle and knowledge you have, I learned alot just in that time I set with you on getting my new dodge. Great teamwork in this dealership. It wasnt, this is your salesman and thats it. Everyone came together to make everything happen. Even anouther salesman, but I dont remember his name. Thank you guys for helping my uncle and being understanding to his set backs and making his experience good! ”
See Ashley
“ Super friendly!!! Ashely helped us with every step of the way!! Will definitely be back for any other vehicle needs! ”
Super Nice
“ Very nice people working there they seemed to be on top of things there. Good job everyone ”
Incredible
“ My experience with the team was absolutely incredible from their professionalism to their knowledge about the vehicles I was looking at. They were patient to help me find what was affordable for me. I had my daughter with me and the team was so kind & patient, they gave her stuff to color and snacks. Team member Ashley was amazing with my daughter, helped out with her when needed, and made us feel as comfortable as possible. She was super helpful with answering questions when needed, and informing us on things we needed to know about our vehicle. The entire team was super patient with us. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience! ”
Awesome People
“ Awesome People! i was in an Out in No time and it was a good atmosphere i got to talk to all of them a little bit and i felt welcomed ”
Five Stars
Five Stars
Great Service
“ Great service department staff, they are always very professional and provide you with the accurate services needed for your vehicle. I always take my Jeep and Ram truck there for required maintenance and services. ”
Five Stars
Friendly
“ Very friendly and professional dealing with the people ”
JC and Michelle - Great Team
“ JC and Michelle in sales are great .Gave me a great deal on an awesome truck. 5 stars all the way. Thank you. ”
Love My Ram
“ Great experience all around! Little bit of a drive for me but was very worth it! Nick and George were great to work with but great people too! Nick's no-nonsense approach ensured a smooth process for financing and the trade-in which saved time! George was very respectful and ensured I understood throughout the entire process: from the test drive, to loan application, to linking my phone to the vehicle. 10/10 would recommend and will be recommending to anyone that needs a Ra ”
Wow
“ Great experience. The whole staff was very respectful they patiently spent all day helping us make the right decision for our family. We went to several other dealerships where the salesman was great the they bring in other people to pressures you. There was none of that here. We really appreciated their dedication to their customers. ”
“ Always good when we are there. Did not try to up-sell like other places I've known. Good for veterans. In and out for an alignment. Wife going on a trip tomorrow for a week. We bought the car there and they take good care of us. Highly recommended! ”