To access the spare tire in a 2017 Ford Explorer, put the transmission in park and engage the parking brake. Then, activate the hazard lights and turn off the engine. Remove the carpeted floor in the trunk to find the spare tire and jack underneath.
Next, once the access panel is opened, you will see a winch mechanism. This mechanism secures the spare tire, so you must use the jack handle provided in your Explorer to lower the tire. Insert the handle into the winch and turn it counterclockwise. This action will release the tire from its bracket, allowing it to lower to the ground.
After the tire is fully lowered, you can easily detach it from the assembly. Ensure to follow these instructions carefully, as mishandling can cause damage to the tire or the vehicle.
Once you have accessed your spare tire, it’s important to know how to properly install it. This includes understanding the tools needed and the steps to take for a safe and efficient tire change. Prepare yourself for a smooth transition to learn about the installation process, ensuring you are ready for any roadside emergency.
Where Can You Find the Spare Tire in a 2017 Ford Explorer?
You can find the spare tire in a 2017 Ford Explorer under the rear of the vehicle. To locate it, first, look at the back of the vehicle. You will notice a small access panel or a cover near the rear bumper. Remove this cover to access the spare tire. The spare tire is secured beneath the cargo area with a winch mechanism. To retrieve it, you will need the tool kit typically found in the vehicle. Use the supplied jack handle to lower the tire from its position. Once lowered, you can remove the spare tire for use.
What Are the Steps to Safely Access the Spare Tire?
To safely access the spare tire, follow a systematic approach to locate and remove it from your vehicle. Ensure you have the necessary tools and understand the process.
- Gather tools: jack, lug wrench, and safety equipment.
- Find the spare tire: check your owner’s manual for location.
- Prepare the vehicle: park on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
- Loosen lug nuts: use the lug wrench to turn them counterclockwise.
- Lift the vehicle: position the jack under the recommended lifting point.
- Remove the lug nuts: take them off completely.
- Remove the flat tire: carefully pull it off the wheel hub.
- Access the spare tire: retrieve it from its storage compartment.
- Install the spare tire: align it with the wheel hub and secure it.
- Lower the vehicle: gradually bring it back to the ground.
Transitioning from the steps, various perspectives and considerations can influence how tires are accessed and stored, such as vehicle model differences and personal experience.
- Vehicle Model Differences
- Personal Experience
- Safety Equipment
- Weather Conditions
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Emergency Situations
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Vehicle Model Differences: Vehicle model differences can significantly affect spare tire accessibility. For instance, some SUVs and trucks have undercarriage mounted spares, while others may have them stored inside. The template for the Ford Explorer requires specific knowledge about where the spare tire is located, often beneath the rear of the vehicle.
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Personal Experience: Personal experience plays a crucial role in tire changing efficiency. Individuals with prior knowledge may navigate the process more swiftly than novices. Research indicates that tire-changing proficiency improves with practice, as noted in a 2019 study by the Tire Industry Association, highlighting that experience reduces the likelihood of injuries.
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Safety Equipment: Safety equipment is essential for a secure tire change. Using reflective vests and road flares enhances visibility for the individual changing the tire in traffic. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration emphasizes that proper safety precautions can reduce accident risks during a roadside tire change.
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Weather Conditions: Weather conditions can complicate access to spare tires. Rain, snow, or mud can create hazardous situations. A 2020 study by the American Automobile Association noted that wet or icy conditions increase injuries and damages during roadside assistance scenarios, underlining the need for extreme caution.
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Emergency Situations: Emergency situations may necessitate rapid access to a spare tire. In high-pressure circumstances, lack of familiarity with the vehicle’s tire access process can lead to hesitancy or errors. Research by the National Safety Council suggests keeping instructional guides within the vehicle can help facilitate quicker actions during emergencies.
Which Tools Are Essential for Accessing the Spare Tire?
To access the spare tire in a vehicle, essential tools include a jack, a lug wrench, and a tire iron.
- Jack
- Lug wrench
- Tire iron
- Owner’s manual (for specific vehicle instructions)
To effectively access the spare tire, familiarity with each required tool is necessary.
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Jack: A jack is a device used to lift the vehicle off the ground. It allows easy access to the tires for changing. Most vehicles come with a standard hydraulic or scissor jack as part of the tool kit. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) advises ensuring that the jack is rated for the vehicle’s weight for safety.
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Lug Wrench: A lug wrench is a tool designed for removing and tightening lug nuts on the wheel. This tool often features a cross shape or is an elongated T-handle for leverage. The proper size of the lug wrench is crucial, as using the wrong size may strip the lug nuts. Studies indicate that many users struggle with lug nuts due to corrosion, making a lug wrench of strong material essential.
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Tire Iron: A tire iron functions similarly to a lug wrench. An added benefit is that it typically provides a better grip and more torque. A tire iron can be adjusted for greater turning power, helping to loosen stuck lug nuts. It’s recommended to have this tool available to facilitate easy removal of the wheel.
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Owner’s Manual: The owner’s manual provides specific instructions and diagrams for accessing the spare tire relevant to the vehicle model. It often includes safety tips and detailed information on the placement of tools and spare tires. According to the Automotive Service Association, referring to the owner’s manual is vital for ensuring compliance with safety standards.
In summary, these essential tools are crucial for safely and effectively accessing and changing a spare tire.
How Do You Properly Remove the Spare Tire from Its Housing?
To properly remove the spare tire from its housing, follow these steps: locate the spare tire release mechanism, use the correct tools, and carefully lower the tire.
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Locate the spare tire release mechanism: This mechanism is usually found beneath the vehicle or inside the trunk. Refer to the vehicle’s manual for the exact location. The release mechanism might include a winch or a retaining bolt. Knowing its location is crucial for a seamless removal process.
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Use the correct tools: Common tools include a jack handle or a lug wrench, depending on the vehicle design. Ensure you have all necessary tools on hand. Using the correct tools prevents damage to the release mechanism and ensures safety.
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Carefully lower the tire: Insert the jack handle or provided tool into the release mechanism. Turn it counterclockwise to lower the spare tire. Monitor the tire as it descends to ensure it does not catch on any vehicle components.
Following these steps can lead to a safe and efficient removal of the spare tire, allowing you to address flat tires or other emergencies with confidence.
What Precautions Should You Follow When Accessing the Spare Tire?
When accessing the spare tire, it is crucial to follow safety precautions to ensure your well-being and avoid damage to your vehicle.
- Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat and stable surface.
- Engage the parking brake.
- Turn on hazard lights for visibility.
- Consult the owner’s manual for specific instructions.
- Use the correct tools, such as a jack and tire iron.
- Wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges.
- Avoid placing any body parts under the vehicle during the process.
- Check for any damage to the spare tire before use.
Following these precautions is vital for a smooth experience when accessing your spare tire.
Precautions When Accessing the Spare Tire:
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Parking on a Flat Surface:
Parking the vehicle on a flat and stable surface helps prevent it from rolling while you work. -
Engaging the Parking Brake:
Engaging the parking brake secures the vehicle in place and adds safety during the tire change. -
Using Hazard Lights:
Turning on hazard lights alerts other drivers of your stop and enhances safety. -
Consulting the Owner’s Manual:
The owner’s manual provides specific instructions for your vehicle model, ensuring proper handling of the spare tire. -
Using Correct Tools:
Using appropriate tools ensures efficiency and minimizes the risk of damage during the tire change. -
Wearing Gloves:
Wearing gloves protects your hands from sharp edges and avoids grease contamination. -
Avoiding Unsafe Practices:
It is vital to avoid placing any body parts under the vehicle as it could result in serious injury. -
Checking Spare Tire Condition:
Inspecting the spare tire for damages or low air pressure before use ensures it is functional and safe. -
Parking on a Flat Surface:
Parking on a flat surface is essential when accessing the spare tire. It minimizes the risk of the vehicle rolling during the process. A stable surface allows for easier and safer lifting of the vehicle. For example, a sloped driveway can lead to accidents if the vehicle shifts unexpectedly. -
Engaging the Parking Brake:
Engaging the parking brake prevents the vehicle from moving. This safety measure keeps the vehicle stationary while you change the tire. A common oversight is forgetting to set the parking brake, which can lead to the vehicle rolling away. According to safety guidelines from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), this step is critical for preventing accidents. -
Using Hazard Lights:
Using hazard lights alerts passing traffic to your situation. It serves as a warning for other drivers to exercise caution. Visibility is particularly important when dealing with roadside tire changes. A study by the National Safety Council highlights that visibility can reduce the risk of accidents by up to 50%. -
Consulting the Owner’s Manual:
Consulting the owner’s manual is key to understanding the vehicle’s specific spare tire mechanism. Each model can have different layouts and procedures for accessing the spare tire. The manual also outlines safety tips, tool requirements, and step-by-step instructions. This connection to manufacturer guidelines ensures that you follow the safest practices tailored to your vehicle. -
Using Correct Tools:
Using the correct tools, such as a jack, lug wrench, and specific adapters, is vital for safe tire removal. Inappropriate tools can lead to inefficient work and increase the risk of injury. According to the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association, using the right equipment reduces error rates during roadside repairs, enhancing overall safety. -
Wearing Gloves:
Wearing gloves is a simple but effective protection measure for your hands. Gloves protect against sharp tire edges and dirt that can easily cause cuts or infections. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that basic protective gear can significantly reduce the risk of injury in various situations, including tire changes. -
Avoiding Unsafe Practices:
Avoiding unsafe practices, such as placing body parts under the vehicle during the tire change, is crucial. Even with proper lifting equipment, accidents can happen if the vehicle collapses. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), workplace safety protocols emphasize the importance of staying clear of areas where potential hazards exist. -
Checking Spare Tire Condition:
Checking the spare tire’s condition ensures it will perform effectively. This includes inspecting for proper air pressure and visible damages, such as cracks. The Tire Industry Association recommends monthly checks of not only the regular tires but also the spare. Being proactive helps avoid further issues when you need the spare tire most.
How Can You Inspect the Condition of the Spare Tire After Accessing It?
To inspect the condition of a spare tire after accessing it, follow these key steps: examine the tire for visible damage, check the air pressure, inspect the tread depth, and ensure the presence of necessary tools for installation.
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Examine the tire for visible damage: Look for any signs of cuts, punctures, or bulges on the tire surface. Damage can compromise the tire’s integrity. A study conducted by the Tire Industry Association (TIA, 2020) emphasizes that even minor visible damage can lead to tire failure during use.
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Check the air pressure: Use a tire pressure gauge to measure the air pressure. The recommended pressure is usually printed on the tire or in the vehicle’s manual. Maintaining proper pressure is crucial for optimal performance. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA, 2021) reports that 1 in 4 drivers has at least one tire under-inflated, leading to safety risks.
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Inspect the tread depth: Use a tread depth gauge or the penny test. Insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, the tread is too worn and may need replacement. Adequate tread depth ensures better traction on the road. According to the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA, 2022), tires with insufficient tread depth can increase stopping distances by up to 50%.
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Ensure the presence of necessary tools for installation: Check that you have the required tools, such as a lug wrench and a jack, readily accessible. Having these tools on hand can facilitate fast and safe tire replacement in case of an emergency. According to the AAA (2023), many roadside assistance calls are due to drivers lacking basic tools.
By following these steps, you can effectively assess your spare tire’s condition and prepare for tire changes when necessary.
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