The spare tire in your 2016 Dodge Dart is located under the trunk floor. You can find it with the jack and lug wrench beneath an access cover. Remove this cover to reach the spare tire. This design saves space and keeps essential tools ready for quick access during tire changes.
Once you remove the panel, you should see the spare tire secured with a hold-down bolt or strap. Use a wrench or a suitable tool to loosen and remove this fastener. Afterward, carefully lift the spare tire out of its compartment.
For quick access during emergencies, ensure the spare tire is properly inflated and the tools for removal are in good condition. Familiarizing yourself with the spare tire location in your 2016 Dart is essential for quick responses to unexpected flat tires.
Next, we will discuss how to properly change a flat tire using the spare, including safety tips and step-by-step instructions to help you through the process smoothly.
Where is the Spare Tire Located in My 2016 Dart?
The spare tire in your 2016 Dodge Dart is located in the trunk. To access it, open the trunk and lift the trunk floor cover. You will find the spare tire secured beneath this cover. The spare tire is typically held in place by a retaining strap or a wheel strap. This location is designed for easy access in case of a flat tire.
What Tools Do I Need to Access the Spare Tire in My 2016 Dart?
To access the spare tire in your 2016 Dart, you need some basic tools and items.
- Tools needed:
– Jack
– Lug wrench
– Wheel chocks (optional)
– Gloves (optional)
– Flashlight (optional)
Having the right tools can ensure a smooth and safe tire change process. Now let’s explore the details regarding each of these tools.
-
Jack:
A jack is a device used to lift the vehicle off the ground. In the 2016 Dodge Dart, a scissor jack is typically included. It allows you to raise the car so you can access the wheels. -
Lug wrench:
A lug wrench is a tool for loosening and tightening lug nuts that hold the wheel in place. The 2016 Dart usually comes with a four-way lug wrench or a simple cross wrench. Proper use of a lug wrench is critical because loose or improperly tightened lug nuts can lead to accidents. -
Wheel chocks:
Wheel chocks can prevent the vehicle from rolling while you lift it. Although they are optional, having them adds an extra layer of safety. They are especially useful if you park on an incline. -
Gloves:
Wearing gloves is recommended to protect your hands from dirt and sharp edges. While not essential, they can enhance your grip and comfort while performing the tire change. -
Flashlight:
A flashlight is particularly useful if you need to perform a tire change in low-light conditions. Ensuring you can see all parts of the vehicle and tools is essential for safety.
By ensuring you have these tools, you can access and change the spare tire in your 2016 Dart efficiently.
What Accessories Come with the Spare Tire in My 2016 Dart?
The accessories that come with the spare tire in a 2016 Dodge Dart typically include a spare tire, a jack, and a lug wrench.
- Spare Tire
- Jack
- Lug Wrench
Understanding these accessories provides clarity on what to expect when dealing with a flat tire.
-
Spare Tire:
The spare tire in a 2016 Dodge Dart is a compact tire designed for temporary use. It is intended to replace a flat tire until the driver can get a full-size tire repaired or replaced. The spare tire allows the car to maintain mobility while preventing further damage to the vehicle. Generally, the spare tire is smaller than standard tires. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, compact spare tires should only be used at limited speeds, typically no more than 50 miles per hour. -
Jack:
The jack is a tool used to lift the car in order to change the tire. This device allows the driver to easily access the wheel that requires attention. Most jacks included with vehicles, including the Dart, are mechanical and require manual effort to lift the vehicle. The jack should be used on a flat and stable surface for safety reasons. Failure to do so can cause the car to slip or tip, leading to injury. -
Lug Wrench:
The lug wrench is a tool used to remove and tighten the nuts that hold the tire in place. This accessory typically features a cross shape or a simple, long-handled design. The lug wrench is essential for changing the tire, as it enables the driver to securely fasten the spare tire to the vehicle. Efficient usage of the lug wrench can prevent accidents caused by improperly secured tires.
The combination of these three accessories provides essential tools for managing a tire change effectively and safely.
How Can I Access the Spare Tire in My 2016 Dart?
To access the spare tire in your 2016 Dodge Dart, you need to locate the tire mount, which is typically found in the trunk area underneath the floor mat.
First, open the trunk of your vehicle. This provides access to the storage area where the spare tire is located. Next, look for the floor mat or carpet in the trunk. You will need to lift this mat to reveal the compartment where the spare tire is stored.
- Locate the spare tire compartment: The spare tire is secured in a compartment under the trunk’s floor mat.
- Remove the mat: By pulling or lifting the trunk floor mat, you expose the compartment. In some models, the mat may be removable, while in others, it may just lift up.
- Lift the cover: If your vehicle has a plastic cover over the spare tire, gently remove this cover to access the spare tire.
- Retrieve the spare tire: Once you have access, you can safely lift out the spare tire. Make sure to check that any necessary tools, such as the jack and lug wrench, are also present in the compartment.
Following these steps will allow you to access the spare tire quickly and efficiently, should you need to change a flat tire.
What Steps Should I Follow to Change the Spare Tire in My 2016 Dart?
To change the spare tire in your 2016 Dart, follow these steps for safe and effective replacement.
- Locate the spare tire and tools.
- Secure the vehicle on a flat surface.
- Loosen the lug nuts before lifting the vehicle.
- Lift the vehicle using the jack.
- Remove the flat tire.
- Install the spare tire.
- Lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts.
- Store the flat tire and tools.
These steps provide a clear and concise framework for tire replacement, ensuring a seamless transition during the process.
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Locate the Spare Tire and Tools:
Locate the spare tire, jack, and lug wrench in your 2016 Dart. The spare tire is usually stored in the trunk, under the floor mat. -
Secure the Vehicle on a Flat Surface:
Ensure your car is parked on a flat, stable surface. Engage the parking brake to prevent the vehicle from rolling. -
Loosen the Lug Nuts Before Lifting the Vehicle:
Loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire with the lug wrench. Turn each nut counterclockwise to make removal easier once the vehicle is raised. -
Lift the Vehicle Using the Jack:
Position the jack under the vehicle’s designated lift point, typically near the rear axle or front subframe. Raise the vehicle until the tire is off the ground. -
Remove the Flat Tire:
Remove the loosened lug nuts completely and take off the flat tire. Place it aside in a safe location. -
Install the Spare Tire:
Align the spare tire with the wheel studs and slide it onto the hub. Hand-tighten the lug nuts onto the studs. -
Lower the Vehicle and Tighten the Lug Nuts:
Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground. Once on the ground, use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts securely in a crisscross pattern. -
Store the Flat Tire and Tools:
Place the flat tire and tools back in the trunk. Ensure everything is secured for safe transport.
Following these steps ensures you can efficiently replace your spare tire in a 2016 Dart while prioritizing safety and proper technique.
What Should I Do After Accessing the Spare Tire in My 2016 Dart?
After accessing the spare tire in your 2016 Dart, you should replace the flat tire with the spare tire.
- Ensure the vehicle is on a stable surface.
- Remove the flat tire.
- Install the spare tire.
- Lower the vehicle.
- Safely store the flat tire and tools.
With these main points outlined, it is crucial to understand the detailed steps involved in each action.
-
Ensure the Vehicle is on a Stable Surface: Ensuring the vehicle is on a stable surface prevents accidents during the tire change. Park the car on a flat area, away from traffic, and engage the parking brake for added security.
-
Remove the Flat Tire: To remove the flat tire, loosen the lug nuts using a lug wrench before lifting the vehicle with a jack. After the vehicle is elevated, remove the lug nuts completely and take off the flat tire.
-
Install the Spare Tire: Installing the spare tire involves aligning it with the wheel hub. Place the spare tire onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Make sure they are at least finger-tight before lowering the vehicle.
-
Lower the Vehicle: After securing the spare, carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground. Once on the ground, use the lug wrench to completely tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern for even distribution.
-
Safely Store the Flat Tire and Tools: After the spare is securely in place, store the flat tire and any tools back in the vehicle. This ensures you have everything you need in case you need to address the flat tire later.
Following these steps will allow you to effectively replace a flat tire with a spare tire on your 2016 Dart.
What Maintenance Should I Perform for the Spare Tire in My 2016 Dart?
To maintain the spare tire in your 2016 Dart, you should regularly check its condition, pressure, and storage location.
- Check tire pressure regularly.
- Inspect for visible damage or wear.
- Ensure proper storage in the vehicle.
- Rotate the spare tire for even wear.
- Replace if it becomes damaged or aged.
Understanding these points helps ensure your spare tire remains safe and functional in case of an emergency.
1. Check Tire Pressure Regularly:
Checking tire pressure for your spare tire is vital for its readiness. The correct pressure ensures that the tire functions properly when needed. According to the Tire and Rim Association, most spare tires should be inflated to 60 psi, but always refer to your vehicle’s manual for specific recommendations.
2. Inspect for Visible Damage or Wear:
Inspecting the spare tire for visible damage involves looking for cuts, cracks, or any signs of wear. Regular visual checks can help identify potential issues before they worsen. A study by the American Automobile Association (AAA) found that 18% of drivers do not know how to assess tire condition, highlighting the importance of awareness in tire maintenance.
3. Ensure Proper Storage in the Vehicle:
Ensuring that your spare tire is properly stored in your 2016 Dart is crucial. The tire should be clean and securely fastened in its designated compartment. Improper storage can lead to unnecessary damage or deterioration over time. The manufacturer’s guidelines stipulate an ideal storage environment to avoid exposure to harmful elements.
4. Rotate the Spare Tire for Even Wear:
Rotating the spare tire helps maintain even wear across all tires. While spare tires are less frequently used, incorporating them into the rotation schedule can extend their lifespan. Mechanics recommend including the spare tire in a rotation cycle every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on your driving habits.
5. Replace if it Becomes Damaged or Aged:
Replacing the spare tire becomes necessary when it shows signs of damage or age. The general lifespan for a spare tire is about six years, but this can vary based on how often it is used and maintained. The Rubber Manufacturers Association recommends checking the manufacturing date and replacing the tire if it is over six years old, regardless of tread wear.