Whether it’s a full-size or a compact donut, like any other tire, your spare can be negatively impacted by conditions like heat, exposure to UV rays or even just time. To keep a close eye on things, we recommend checking your spare (and your other tires) once a month, and before any long trips.
When inspecting your spare, be sure to check for proper air pressure, signs of tire aging, damage or excessive treadwear. Many of these issues can be signs that it’s time to replace your tire.
Keep in mind, spare tires age like any other tire. Even if your spare never sees any use, it can still be affected by the passage of time. As tires age, their structural integrity can be compromised.
After a long enough period, driving on your spare tire may become dangerous.
For your safety, we recommend replacing your spare tire every six years. If your spare is ten years old or older, it's considered non-serviceable and should be replaced ASAP.
Spare tires are susceptible to slow air loss and temperature fluctuations so it’s important to check the air pressure regularly, preferably when you check your other tires. This ensures that your spare will be properly inflated if you need to use it. Driving on an underinflated spare, particularly a compact or space-saver spare, can cause serious tire damage or even failure.
SPARE TIRE TYPES
These days, there are a couple different types of spare tires used, while some vehicles even opt to go without spares completely. Instead, they’ll include a tire inflation kit or run-flat tires. When it comes to their spare tires, some vehicles come with full-size spares, while others have compact or space-saver spares.
Compact spares are smaller than the rest of your tires and typically have very specific usage restrictions, usually set by the manufacturer. Some coupes or sedans use compact spares to save on trunk space and vehicle weight.
Full-size spares can be found on most trucks, SUVs and some sedans. They’re generally the same size as the rest of the tires on the vehicle and come without usage restrictions.
This info can usually be found printed on the sidewall of the spare tire or in the owner’s manual.
PRACTICE INSTALLING YOUR SPARE TIRE
Many pickups, SUVs and minivans store their spare tires underneath the vehicle. The spare typically has to be lowered using a tool provided by the manufacturer.
No matter where your vehicle’s spare is stored, we highly recommend making sure you have the right tools, and that you know how to use them when needed.
If your spare tire happens to be mounted outside the vehicle, it’s more vulnerable to the elements. Be sure to inspect it and your tools regularly to make sure they’re in good working order.
We highly recommend you practice installing your spare periodically. Not only will this ensure that you know where the tools are, it will also familiarize you with them and how to use them. This makes installing the spare in an unplanned emergency scenario that much more manageable.
Have more questions about spare tires? Give us a call or stop by your local store.
And if you need to upgrade or replace your spare, save some time by booking an appointment. Get a shorter wait time in-store when you buy and book online!
If you need any help finding spare tires for your ride, we’ve got you covered. Feel free to stop by your nearest store or schedule an appointment, and we'll get you taken care of!