How much will a spare tire cost?
Temporary “donut” spare tires range in cost (due to size, performance, and brand, for example) from $50 to $200 and more. Though many new cars now include space-saver spare tires, some new SUVs and trucks still include full-size spare tires. While this type of spare lasts longer than the average donut (a maximum of seven to ten years), it’s still a best-practice to get it replaced ASAP.The biggest difference between donuts and spare tires are that donuts are actually smaller than your normal tires. Because of their smaller size, they are a more temporary fix for a flat tire than a full-size spare.However, you need to follow safety precautions when using a spare donut tire. Make sure the air pressure is at 60 PSI and keep your speed under 50 MPH. After driving 50 miles on a spare donut tire, replace them.Temporary spare tires that come with your vehicle are designed to fit your vehicle make and model only. 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.
Why are spare tires expensive?
Not only do car manufacturers view full-size spare tires as dead weight, those tires are also more expensive than space-saver spares and their alternatives. A full-size spare’s larger steel wheel or replacement tire mounted on a factory rim can add significantly to a vehicle’s production costs. Regular spare tires generally are identical to your existing car tires and are able to be used in the same fashion. Donut replacement tires are intended to be driven in emergency situations only and come with low-speed limitations. Most donut spares come with a suggested top speed of just 50mph.Driving Limitations on Spare Tires Compact spare tires, also known as donut spares, are designed for short-term use only. Most manufacturers recommend not exceeding 50 miles and driving no faster than 50 mph due to their reduced traction, which can affect handling and braking.Today, approximately 30 percent of new cars come without a spare (up from just 5 percent in 2006) and it is estimated there are more than 30 million cars on the road that lack a spare tire. The main reason manufacturers are removing spare tires is tough new government fuel economy standards.Cars often have the space to store at a space-saver tire, even if it isn’t so equipped. If your car doesn’t come equipped with a spare tire, consider a spare-tire kit, which includes a tire, jack, and lug wrench.Most full-size spare tires are designed to last anywhere from seven to 10 years, according to John Paul. That said, drivers should never use a tire with visible damage, such as cracks in the sidewall, punctures, impact bulges or irregular tread wear – all of which are dangerous to drive on.
Is it worth it to buy a spare tire?
If you take a lot of road trips, routinely drive in places with long distances between service stations, or travel a lot on rough roads, you need a spare tire. Getting a flat in rural areas means you could be many miles from a repair shop. 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.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.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.
Why are spare tires not included?
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. It’s a Cheaper Option for Car Manufacturers Not only do car manufacturers view full-size spare tires as dead weight, those tires are also more expensive than space-saver spares and their alternatives.Temporary “donut” spare tires range in cost (due to size, performance, and brand, for example) from $50 to $200 and more.
How to purchase a spare tire?
The best place to buy a temporary spare tire is your dealership’s parts department. Since the temporary spare tire is rarely replaced, it’s unlikely you’ll find the tire at most tire stores. For a full size spare tire, just the tire itself will need to be replaced, and it can be done at your local mechanic shop. HOW MUCH IS A SPARE TIRE? Temporary “donut” spare tires range in cost (due to size, performance, and brand, for example) from $50 to $200 and more. If you choose to keep and maintain a full-sized tire, then it will cost as much as whatever tire you have purchased for the other four wheels.Your spare tire should hover around 35 to 60 pounds per square inch (PSI), but the actual amount depends on the spare tire. Spare tires have a higher air pressure than regular tires because they lose air over time and they’re stored for long periods. You should only use your spare tire for 70 miles or less.
What to do if I have a flat tire and no spare?
How can I fix a flat tire temporarily without a spare? You can use a puncture sealant or a tire patch kit to fix a flat tire temporarily. Puncture sealants seal small punctures from within, while tire patch kits provide tools to patch the puncture. As an alternative to a heavy & bulky spare wheel, car designers are opting for a tyre sealant kit for the driver to use if they find themselves with a punctured tyre. These tyre repair kits provide a temporary flat tyre repair to enable the driver to get safely to their nearest garage.
Can I replace my spare tire?
For your safety, we recommend replacing your spare tire every six years. The limits of a space-saver spare tire are: Speed limit of 50 miles per hour. Shouldn’t be driven more than 70 miles. Often provide less traction than with a full-size spare.You should drive no more than 50 miles on a temporary or donut spare tire if possible. If you absolutely must go longer than 50 miles, avoid driving on it longer than 70 miles.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.