New Car? Navigating the Changing Landscape of Spare Tires
Picture this: you’re all set to hit the road in your gleaming car when suddenly—bam! —you’re faced with a flat tire. But wait? Whether AAA helps or you’re a DIY-er make sure of one thing. The game has changed, with only about two-thirds of new vehicles today are equipped with a spare.
Skip the Spare?
Modern vehicles often forego the spare tire, opting instead for a tire repair sealant kit, a compact ‘donut’ spare, or nothing at all. Ditching the spare lightens the load, boosting fuel efficiency. With roadside assistance just a call away and tire pressure monitoring systems alerting drivers to potential issues, the spare tire isn’t as essential as it once was.
But here’s the catch: being caught without a spare tire and no backup plan isn’t ideal. Even if you’re well-versed in changing a tire, having one can be a lifesaver, sparing you from potential tow truck hassles.
Consider Your Options
What’s the plan if your newer vehicle lacks a spare? Firstly, you can invest in a spare tire kit from your repair shop or auto retailer. It’ll come complete with a properly sized tire, jack, and lug wrench. Just make sure you’re familiar with changing a tire!
Then there are run-flat tires, which can keep you going even after sustaining damage. They allow you to drive at slower speeds and cover shorter distances post-puncture. While they may cost a bit more and wear out faster, having a spare tire kit on hand is often the smartest move, keeping you prepared for any scenario. Just remember to give that spare tire a periodic check-up to ensure it’s in top condition. If you’d rather forgo the spare, ensure you have reliable roadside assistance or a quality repair kit at the ready.
