But how do you care for your spare tire? Three key areas you should focus on include:
Check out our tips below for keeping your spare in tip top shape.
Spare tire inspection
We recommend checking your spare and other tires once a month and before any long trips for damage or noticeable wear.
Your spare tire isn’t stored in a vacuum. Although it’s tucked away (out of sight, out of mind right?), it’s still susceptible to the same environmental conditions your other four tires face. This is especially true if your spare is stored beneath your vehicle where it is exposed to the air, elements, and outside temperature. Even just the passing of time affects your spare tire; as tires age, their structural integrity can become compromised.
In cases of extensive wear and aging, driving on your spare tire can be dangerous.
America's Tire offers free tire inspections, even for your spare tire!
Spare tire air pressure
We recommend checking the air pressure in your spare tire once a month (when you check your other four tires).
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 (“donut”), can cause serious tire damage or even failure.
America's Tire offers free air pressure checks (no appointment necessary), including your spare tire!
Spare tire rotation
For your regular tires, tire rotation and balance services help keep your tread wearing evenly and your drive smooth. If you keep a full size spare tire, you should include it in your tire rotation service. This will help keep your tires cohesive and in good health.
If you have a temporary (“donut”) spare tire, you do not need to include it in your tire rotation service.
America's Tire customers receive free rotations and rebalancing!
SPARE TIRE COVERS
Some vehicles store their (typically full sized) spare tires on the back or top of their vehicle, such as Jeeps, Ford Broncos, campers, and RVs. Some drivers choose to add tire covers for a variety of reasons, principally for:
Protection against UV rays, wind, harsh weather, and debris
Ease of cleaning
Extending tire life
Aesthetic appeal
Covers can come in a variety of materials, from fabric, stainless steel, vinyl, and thermoplastic. They’re also prime real estate for custom designs, advertising, and branding.
Make sure you choose a spare tire cover that meets the needs of your vehicle and driving conditions.
America's Tire does not currently stock spare tire covers but we do offer plastic tire bags for free to customers swapping out their seasonal set.
SPARE TIRE TYPES
Many modern vehicles do not come with a spare tire to save on weight and increase efficiency. Instead, they’ll include a tire inflation kit or run-flat tires.
However many vehicles do include a spare tire. There are a few different types of spare tire.
Compact spares (also called “donuts”) 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.
If you’re not sure what your vehicle is equipped with, check the tire’s sidewall or your owner’s manual.
PRACTICE INSTALLING YOUR SPARE TIRE
A spare tire is no good to you if you can’t install it yourself. Familiarize yourself with the location of your spare and tire changing equipment if you break down, you’ll be able to react calmly.
We teach you how to change a spare tire here, which includes a video. We recommend practicing periodically so you’re comfortable with the tools and handling your tires. This makes an unplanned emergency situation manageable!
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.
Ready to roll?
Do you have more questions? We’re here to help. Give us a call or stop by your local store. We’ll get you taken care of.
If you need to upgrade or replace your spare, you can save time by buying and booking online first!