Spare tyrePanama

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144. Spare tyre

A spare tyre is an additional tyre, usually already mounted on a wheel, carried in a vehicle so that a damaged or punctured road wheel can be temporarily replaced. Vehicles may carry a full-size spare wheel, a compact temporary spare or a tyre-repair kit instead.

A temporary spare wheel is normally intended only for emergency and short-term use. Drivers must follow the manufacturer's restrictions concerning speed, distance, tyre pressure and installation and should replace or repair the damaged normal tyre as soon as possible.

Spare wheel of a Bentley Bentayga.
Wikimedia.org • Mike-fiesta • CC BY-SA

What is a spare tyre?

A spare tyre is an additional tyre, normally mounted on a wheel, that can temporarily replace a punctured or damaged road wheel.

Is a spare tyre the same as a spare wheel?

In everyday use the terms are often used interchangeably. Technically, a spare wheel usually consists of both the wheel rim and the tyre already fitted to it.

What is a space-saver spare wheel?

A space-saver is a smaller and lighter temporary spare designed to take up less storage space. It normally has stricter speed and distance limitations than a normal road wheel.

Can you drive normally on a temporary spare wheel?

No. Temporary spare wheels are intended for emergency use. Follow the maximum speed, distance and other restrictions specified by the vehicle or tyre manufacturer.

Do all cars have a spare tyre?

No. Many modern cars instead use a tyre-repair kit, run-flat tyres or roadside-assistance arrangements.

Can a tyre-repair kit replace a spare wheel?

For some punctures, yes. A repair kit may temporarily seal a small puncture, but it may not work for severe tyre damage, sidewall damage or a damaged wheel rim.

Should you check the pressure of a spare tyre?

Yes. A spare tyre can lose pressure while stored for long periods. Check it periodically according to the manufacturer's recommended pressure.

Can any spare wheel be fitted to any car?

No. The wheel dimensions, bolt pattern, load capacity and other specifications must be compatible with the vehicle. Use only a spare approved or specified for the vehicle.

What should you do after fitting a spare wheel?

Drive cautiously, respect any temporary-wheel restrictions and have the damaged tyre repaired or replaced as soon as reasonably possible.

Is carrying a spare tyre compulsory?

This depends on the country and vehicle category. Some jurisdictions require particular breakdown equipment, while others allow vehicles to operate without a spare wheel.

Maintenance

Flat tyre

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