Why do new cars no longer have spare tires?
To improve fuel efficiency. Removing the spare can reduce a vehicle’s weight by up to 50 pounds, including the jack and lug wrench. It can also improve aerodynamics by reducing air drag from a spare tire that sits below the undercarriage of a vehicle. A spare tire is a full-size tire. Spare tires are the same size as the existing tires your vehicle is riding on. Spare tires allow you to drive normally with no noticeable changes in performance or handling.You can’t just borrow someone’s spare tire and expect it to fit unless you have the exact same vehicle, or a vehicle with the same bolt pattern, hub bore size, weight requirements and even lug nut sizes.Most tire shops will carry spare tires. However, an increasing trend is to avoid the traditional temporary “donut” spare tire in favor of a full-sized tire that can be easily switched on your vehicle without any restrictions.Removing the spare tire frees up space in the car. This is especially helpful in smaller cars, electric vehicles, or hybrid cars where every inch of space matters. Automakers can use that extra room for larger batteries, extra cargo space, or other features that appeal to buyers.Some cars without a spare come with a run-flat tire, which is designed to operate for a limited distance after losing air from a typical puncture. Carmakers are skipping the spare because of regulatory pressure to squeeze more miles out of every gallon of fuel.
What if my car has no spare tire?
In situations where you find yourself with a flat tire and no spare, there are alternative methods to temporarily fix the flat tire. Two common solutions are using a puncture sealant or a tire patch kit. A spare tire can save you from having to call for help if you get a flat. That’s why it’s important to make sure your spare tire is in good condition. Just because your spare is out of sight doesn’t mean it should be out of mind until you need it.The generally least expensive spare tire option is to purchase and carry a “donut” spare tire. These are smaller, temporary tires that will be serviceable long enough to get you to a service station to make repairs to your original tire or buy a new one.Carrying a spare tyre is not a legal requirement, so you don’t need to worry about falling foul of the law if you don’t have one. When you break down with a flat tyre, you’re not expected to have any puncture repair equipment. However, keeping a spare tyre in your car for emergencies is advisable.Temporary/Compact Spares The compact temporary spare tire and wheel that comes with a vehicle is designed to fit that vehicle only. Never attempt to use a Temporary/Compact Spare Tire and wheel on another vehicle unless it is the exact same make and model. Be ready for the unexpected.
Do you really need a spare tire?
Spare tires are optional on many cars, and AAA recommends the additional investment when buying a new vehicle. The cost of a spare tire may be less than that of replacing a sealant/inflator kit, and it will help ensure your mobility regardless of the reason for a flat. Tesla vehicles do not come with a traditional spare tire; instead, they offer tire repair tools and the option to call for roadside assistance. Being prepared with a tire repair kit and portable air pump can save time in an emergency. Mobile tire repair companies such as LugWrench Heroes can help in times of need.Spare Wheel Alternatives Tyre Sealant and Compressor Kit: Can be quick and effective on simple punctures, but not if running the tyre flat has damaged or overheated it. Once used, sealant must be renewed. Run-Flat Tyres: Limited range and speed once punctured. Can also be more difficult to replace when worn.Is your new vehicle missing a spare tire? Before returning to the dealership to complain, it’s helpful to know that many automakers are stingy with full-sized spares, if they include one at all. There are several compelling reasons many vehicles, from the Dodge Charger to the Tesla Model X, no longer carry spare tires.You’re not entirely out of luck if your spare tire is damaged or unsuitable. There are roadside tire repair kits and patching options available that can provide a temporary fix: 1. Tire Repair Kits: Many vehicles come equipped with tire repair kits, including a sealant and a compressor.
Does Challenger come with a spare tire?
By now, you’re aware that your Challenger is missing a spare tire. Dodge, like many carmakers, are not providing this important lifesaver. By now, you’re aware that your Charger is missing a spare tire. Dodge, like many carmakers, is not providing this important lifesaver.
Does Tesla have spare tires?
Since Tesla cars do not come with spare tires, owners need to take other measures to deal with unexpected tire problems. Many owners keep a tire-repair kit in the trunk, usually containing sealant and a portable air compressor, which comes with some models, but in most cases needs to be purchased. If a car doesn’t come with a spare tire, it will typically be equipped with a can of tire sealant and a DC-powered air compressor. Some luxury models come with run-flat tires. Minor punctures through the tread can be addressed with this gear. But if the puncture is large or penetrates the sidewall, help will be needed.For instance, BMW no longer puts spares in their designs because all of their modern models are equipped with run flat tires. Run-flats are designed with reinforced sidewalls that allow drivers to drive a reasonable distance further without placing additional pressure on the damaged tire or wheel.Consumer Reports says about 60 per cent of new cars don’t come with any spare at all. In an effort from the manufacturers to lower production costs and reduce weight for fuel economy, they’re just leaving the spare tire out. So don’t ever assume you just have a spare tire, said Pszczolkowski.