Does a dealership have to give you a spare tire?
The short answer is no, dealerships are not legally required to provide a spare tire with the purchase of a new vehicle. However, the availability and inclusion of a spare tire can vary depending on the make, model, and specific vehicle configuration.
Understanding the Spare Tire Requirement
While there is no federal law mandating that dealerships must include a spare tire with every new vehicle sale, some states and local jurisdictions may have their own regulations on this matter. The decision to include a spare tire is ultimately up to the vehicle manufacturer and the dealership's policies.
Many modern vehicles are being produced without a traditional spare tire, opting instead for a tire repair kit or a compact spare tire. This is done to save weight and create more storage space in the vehicle. However, the absence of a full-size spare tire can be an inconvenience for drivers who experience a flat tire and need to replace it.
Factors Affecting Spare Tire Availability
Several factors can influence whether a dealership includes a spare tire with a new vehicle purchase:
- Vehicle Model: Some vehicle models, particularly smaller or more fuel-efficient cars, may not come standard with a spare tire to save weight and improve fuel economy.
- Trim Level: Higher-end trim levels of a vehicle may be more likely to include a spare tire as a standard feature, while lower-trim models may have a tire repair kit or no spare at all.
- Dealership Policies: Individual dealerships may have their own policies on whether to include a spare tire with new vehicle purchases, even if it's not a standard feature for that model.
- Customer Requests: Customers can often request a spare tire to be included as an option or accessory, even if it's not a standard feature, and the dealership may be able to accommodate this request.
It's important for buyers to check the vehicle's specifications and the dealership's policies before finalizing a purchase to ensure they understand what is included and what additional options may be available.
Alternatives to a Spare Tire
If a spare tire is not included with a new vehicle purchase, there are several alternatives that may be provided:
- Tire Repair Kit: Many vehicles now come with a tire repair kit, which includes sealant and an air compressor to temporarily fix a flat tire.
- Compact Spare Tire: Some vehicles may include a smaller, compact spare tire that is designed for temporary use until a full-size replacement can be obtained.
- Roadside Assistance: Dealerships or vehicle manufacturers may offer roadside assistance programs that can provide help in the event of a flat tire, such as towing the vehicle to a repair shop.
While the lack of a spare tire may be an inconvenience, these alternative options can still provide a solution for drivers who experience a flat tire while on the road.
Do dealerships have to include a spare tire?
According to vehicles law, used car dealers are not obligated to give you a spare tire. But, if the car dealer is a sweetheart and cares enough, he might just throw in one or two spare tires in your purchased used car. No law abides the dealers from providing spare tires.
Can a used car be sold without a spare tire?
There is no requirement in California requiring a car come with a spare tire. Worse, there is no state agency regulating the sale of vehicles with frame damage. The DMV website says: DMV will not:…
Do you legally have to have a spare tire?
Carrying a spare tyre is not a legal requirement, so you don't need to worry about falling foul of the law if you don't have one. When you break down with a flat tyre, you're not expected to have any puncture repair equipment. However, keeping a spare tyre in your car for emergencies is advisable.
Can a car come without a spare tire?
Spare tires are optional on many cars, and AAA recommends the additional investment when buying a new vehicle. The cost of a spare tire may be less than that of replacing a sealant/inflator kit, and it will help ensure your mobility regardless of the reason for a flat.
Is my car supposed to come with a spare tire?
While many new light trucks and larger SUVs come with a spare, many new vehicles do not include a regular-sized spare. About one-third of new vehicles are not equipped with a full-size spare tire. Instead, many are equipped with a space-saver (donut) spare or tire sealant and inflation kit.
Why do new cars no longer have spare tires?
CR automotive technician Michael Crossen says automakers are ditching spare tires to cut production costs and reduce vehicle weight. But Crossen cautions that donuts are only a temporary solution. "You shouldn't drive on them for more than 50 miles," he said. "So, it's truly temporary.
Why are spare tires not included?
CR automotive technician Michael Crossen says automakers are ditching spare tires to cut production costs and reduce vehicle weight. But Crossen cautions that donuts are only a temporary solution. "You shouldn't drive on them for more than 50 miles," he said. "So, it's truly temporary.
What to do if your car doesn't have a spare tire?
If your current car lacks a spare, auto dealers and aftermarket tire retailers sell spare tires and the related tools for vehicles that originally came with a sealant/inflator kit. The cost typically ranges from $300 to $600 depending on the vehicle.
Are you legally required to have a spare tire?
There is no law or state requirement that mandates all drivers have a spare. However, it is strongly encouraged by all car care organizations and authorities to always have a spare tire in your vehicle for those just in case types of situations.
What do I do if I have a flat tire and no spare?
If you find yourself with a flat tire and no spare, there are several options and solutions to consider. You can use a tire repair kit, purchase run-flat tires, contact a mobile tire repair company like Lug Wrench Heroes, or contact roadside assistance for help.
