Do not assume that because you have a full-size spare wheel in your trunk now that the next car you buy will still have one as well. When buying a new car, you should always look at what is in the trunk. Car manufacturers are not required by law to provide you with a full-size spare Tire or anything else to cope with a puncture. So, do not get caught off guard.

This, like the other items on our utilized car checklist, is something you cannot afford to overlook.

Depending on the car, a full-size Tire on a basic alloy wheel could be an expensive choice. It will also increase the vehicle’s weight and reduce fuel efficiency, whereas the space it necessitates implies less boot space. These weight, space, and cost implications help to explain why car manufacturers infrequently supply a full-size spare wheel these days.

A spare tire isn’t always necessary. Agreed. You might need it only if you get a flat tire, which is unlikely to happen. But what if you ever do get a flat tire, which is not an isolated occurrence as customers are led to believe?

The problem with the sealant is that it cannot be used on larger leaks. In that case, you’ll need a spare tire. Therefore, it is strongly advised that you always have a spare tire, jack, tools, and an air compressor with you. This will guarantee that you arrive at your location even if you cannot locate a mechanic or other assistance.

Most of the time, customers are unaware that their new car does not arrive with a spare tire. Therefore, it is strongly advised that you inspect your truck by lifting the flunk to see if one has been provided. Many small cars, however, do not even have room for a spare tire.

A car, no matter how big or small, has limited space, particularly for spare parts. Some drivers keep smaller parts such as fan belts and substitute light bulbs in the trunk to keep them handy, while others only worry when they need them. A spare Tire, which can be fitted when you get a puncture, is one substitute part that is entirely essential – and is, in fact, a legal requirement in many countries.

 

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Where to Find Your Spare Wheel

Spare wheel kits are typically found in the trunk of a car, but on some, more exotic vehicles, including such Volkswagen Beetles, the storage area may be located in the front. Your spare wheel could be hidden beneath a cover or in a massive indent in the body panels, depending on where you keep it. It could be kept in position by a large bolt that precludes it from moving.

Some vehicles, including Land Rover 4x4s and other off-road vehicles, might have had the spare wheel attached to the rear door or perhaps the bonnet. A spare wheel cover may be used to safeguard a spare wheel in this position.

Looking for a new spare wheel? Check our various off-road wheels website in the USA.

Spare Wheel Alternatives

  • Temporary Use ‘Skinny’ Spare: A viable choice for shorter trips close to home. Due to speed constraints, this is not perfect for long journeys, so you should take a break and get the broken Tire supplanted as soon as possible. You’ll also need to find a place to transport the damaged wheel and tire.
  • Tire Sealant: Could be quick and efficient on straightforward punctures, but not if the Tire has been broken or heated up by running it flat. Sealant must be replaced after it has been used.
  • Run-Flat Tires: Once punctured, you have a restricted range and speed. When started to wear, it could also be tougher to replicate. Because many repairers are hesitant to fix a punctured run-flat Tire, this can also be an expensive solution.
  • Full-Size Spare: Well, it’s a like-for-like swap. In theory, you could ‘fit and forget’ – but you must repair the damaged tire as quickly as possible.

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Are They Useful and Worthy Enough?

In case of emergencies, spare tires can be beneficial. For example, you could use your spare wheel to get home safely or repair it in an emergency. They are a very effective yet practical alternative to inflator kits or sealants that also necessitate some expert knowledge to operate and can cause tire damage if misused.

What Do I Need To Know About Spare Tires?

However, because of their weight and size limitations, there are a few points to bear in mind when driving on your spare tire. First, according to the RACQ, while your temporary wheel is on your car, you should drive at a slower speed. Maintaining a speed of less than 80 km/h assists in ensuring your security, as the smaller and lighter tires may alter the balance of your vehicle.

What about Run Flats?

How convenient would it be to be able to continue driving after a tire puncture or blowout? This is feasible (for about 80 kilometers) if you’re going to drive on ‘Run Flats.’ There are two kinds of ‘run flat’ tires: self-supporting and auxiliary-supported. Self-supporting tires have firmer and harder rubber to momentarily assist the vehicle’s weight at lower tire pressure. Auxiliary supported tires do not have stronger or harder rubber but are connected to a specific rim with a steel support ring tied to the wheel and therefore can assist the vehicle’s weight.

However, there are a few drawbacks, including that run-flats cost one-third the price of regular tires. Your vehicle’s performance and ability to handle it are also impacted. It’s no shock that you’re going to drive around with little to no air in your tires.

Tools

When inspecting your spare tire, ensure that the jack and wheel removal tools are prevalent. You’ll also need an adapter if you tried installing lock wheel nuts to safeguard your alloy wheels from theft. These nuts are unique to each vehicle, so ensure they’re still there – and that you have the appropriate equipment or tools for them – or modifying a wheel on your car will be nearly impossible. This is particularly important if you are alone in an emergency.

Maintenance

If your vehicle has a spare wheel of any kind, remember to check the pressure in it regularly. Having a flat tire is aggravating enough without having to discover that your spare would be in the same condition.

However, the condition of your spare tire will not affect your MOT. According to the MOT manual, “at the end of the assessment, you only have to investigate the road wheels fitted to the vehicle.” If you start noticing a flaw in a spare wheel, please notify the vehicle presenter.”

A spare wheel cannot be legally used in place of a road wheel if it is in excellent condition and meets the required tread requirements.

If you would get a puncture and have to use your spare, make sure you do the following:

  • Repair or replace the damaged tire as soon as possible.
  • Carefully inspect the spare before reinstalling it in the boot.

 

Read Also: All You Need To Know About Wheels Alignment

 

Be Prepared To Use a Spare Wheel.

Your spare wheel serves as an emergency measure if one of your regular wheels becomes flat or punctured. A punctured tire is usually rendered useless until the puncture is repaired or the tire is replaced. Therefore, you will have to fit the spare wheel until that can be repaired or adjusted so that you can use it.

If you have a flat tire, get the car off the road and onto a flat, sturdy area where you can safely repair it. Then, follow the correct procedure for removing the wheel and replacing it with the spare tire.

A Simple Solution

Remember that your car tires are one of the four most important components that keep you on the road. If even one of them fails, you will most likely be unable to proceed. Having a spare tire allows you to continue your journey. But keep in mind that it must be checked regularly to ensure that it is in excellent, roadworthy condition.

You may not need it every day, but you will be glad you made that wise decision when you do. Even if you have no idea how to change a tire, you could ask for assistance. You can find someone to do that for you if you have one in your trunk. It is always good for the world, yet these people could help you because help is easier in the era of cell phones and apps.

Here’s a different approach. Get a spare tire and the necessary tools, and keep it in your garage. If you commute to and from your office and home on decent roads, you could never need a spare. Although if you do get a flat tire, as previously stated, you will find assistance. Carry a spare tire if you are planning a long trip or traveling by road to a remote location or somewhere where the roads are not in good condition. That way, you get the best of all worlds and can assist yourself avoid disaster.

 

Author Bio

Regina produces excellent content for gearheads. He has a vast working experience with off-road wheels companies in the USA. He adheres to particular style guides as well as any content demands placed by our clients.