On part of the vehicle that is easily forgotten about until it is needed is the spare tire. This is because you will not need to drive on the spare tire unless the regular goes flat or blows out. You will want to inspect the spare tire when you check the regular tires as well. This includes air pressure, tread wear, and the overall condition of the tires. If you notice anything out of the norm with the tires, make sure to bring the vehicle in as soon as you can.
Full-Size Matching Spare Tires and Wheels
While full-size matching spare tires and wheels require the greatest amount of storage space, they are the most versatile. Full-size matching spare tires and wheels should be integrated into the vehicle’s tire rotation pattern from the beginning. This will essentially create a set of five tires that will last longer than just four, as well as will wear out the spare tire before it ages out. If the vehicle has all-wheel or four-wheel drive, the spare tire will remain at a similar tread depth to the other tires on the vehicle, reducing driveline stress when called into service. Additionally, when it is time to replace the vehicle’s tires, they can be replaced as a set of five allowing you to benefit from using the latest tire technology or select a more desirable tire size that fits the original wheels.
Full-Size Temporary Spares
Full-size temporary spare tires and wheels match the vehicle’s original tire dimensions, but typically feature lighter-weight construction and a shallower tread depth to reduce vehicle weight to improve fuel economy and make the spare easier to install. While most of today’s vehicles are originally equipped with alloy wheels, full-size temporary spares are typically mounted on steel wheels and should be used only as spares.
Temporary Compact Spare Tires
Temporary compact spare tires are physically shorter and narrower than the vehicle’s standard tires and wheels. Their smaller dimensions require they operate at higher inflation pressures typically sixty pounds per square inch than standard tires. Temporary compact spares also feature lighter-weight construction and a shallower tread depth than standard tires to reduce vehicle weight, as well as allow more trunk space to be dedicated to luggage. 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. All temporary spare tires are designed for short-term use only and they are not designed with the same capabilities in terms of load capacity, speed capability, or all-weather traction. Always check your vehicle’s owner’s manual and the temporary spare’s sidewall for instructions on proper use. It is also important to recognize that controlling a vehicle may be more difficult when using a temporary spare, and temporary spare tires are usually accompanied with warnings that advise against towing a trailer, or traveling over fifty miles per hour for further than fifty miles.
