Where can I find my spare tire?
The spare tire is typically stored in the trunk or cargo area, usually under a floor panel, but some vehicles place it in a side compartment or omit it entirely in favor of a repair kit or run-flat tires.
Understanding where to look can save time when you need a quick tire change. This guide outlines the most common locations, how to access them, and what to expect on newer models.
Common locations in passenger cars
These are the typical spots you should check first, depending on your vehicle type.
- In the trunk, hidden under a removable floor panel or carpeted cargo mat.
- In a recessed storage well beneath the trunk floor, reached by lifting a panel or cover.
- In a side compartment in the cargo area, often behind a plastic cover or near the wheel well.
- Under the vehicle on some SUVs and trucks, housed in a cradle or carrier that you access from beneath the vehicle or via a rear access panel.
If you don’t see a spare in these spots, your model may use a tire repair kit or run-flat tires instead. Always consult your owner's manual for the exact location and removal instructions specific to your car.
No spare? What to know
More new cars skip a traditional spare tire to save weight. In these cases, you’ll typically find a tire repair kit with sealant and an inflator, or run-flat tires that let you drive a short distance after a puncture. Here are the common alternatives you might encounter.
- Tire repair kit with sealant and air inflator.
- Run-flat tires that can be driven on for a limited distance and speed.
- A space-saver (donut) spare, sometimes available as a factory option or accessory.
- Roadside assistance or mobile tire services offered by manufacturers or insurers.
Check the glove box, owner’s manual, or the vehicle’s information label for the exact setup, and ensure you have the proper tools (jack, lug wrench) and knowledge to use them safely.
How to locate it quickly
Use this quick checklist to locate the spare tire fast, especially if you’re in a pinch.
- Open the trunk or rear hatch and lift any removable floor panel or mat to reveal a storage area.
- Inspect side panels or pockets in the cargo area for a concealed spare or toolkit.
- Check under the trunk floor for a sealed compartment or a hidden access plate.
- If you own an SUV or truck, look for a cradle or carrier under the cargo floor or behind a dedicated hatch.
- Refer to the owner’s manual or the sticker inside the trunk lid for exact location and removal steps.
Accessing the spare safely often requires a helper, proper lifting technique, and using the vehicle’s jacking points as directed by the manual.
Summary
Locating your spare tire depends on your vehicle’s design. Most cars place it in the trunk area under a floor panel, but configurations vary, and some models replace the spare with a repair kit or run-flat tires. When in doubt, check the owner’s manual or contact the dealership for model-specific guidance. Always have the correct tools and follow safety procedures when changing a tire.
What can I do if I don't have a spare tire?
If you have no spare tire, your options are to use a tire repair kit for a temporary fix, call for roadside assistance, or, if your car is at home, inflate the tire with an air compressor and drive it slowly to a mechanic. For a quick roadside fix, a repair kit can seal small punctures and reinflate the tire, but this is only a temporary solution to get you to a repair shop. For long-term safety, you can also purchase a spare tire or opt for run-flat tires.
Immediate actions
This video demonstrates how to use a tire repair kit to fix a flat tire: 48sHeidi and Franny SailingYouTube · Dec 24, 2016
- Use a tire repair kit: If your car is equipped with one, use the sealant and compressor to temporarily fix a small puncture. This is a temporary fix and you should still go to a mechanic soon.
- Call roadside assistance: If you have a membership like AAA, or if your insurance includes it, call for assistance. They can either tow your vehicle to a shop or, in some cases, a technician may be able to repair the tire on-site.
- Inflate the tire (if at home): If you're at home and have an air compressor, inflate the tire and slowly drive to a nearby tire shop for a proper repair or replacement.
- Pull over safely: If the flat happens on the road, pull over to a safe spot, turn on your hazard lights, and assess your options. Do not attempt to drive on a severely flat tire.
Long-term solutions
This video explains why some cars don't come with a spare tire: 1mHistory of Simple ThingsYouTube · May 17, 2025
- Buy a spare tire: You can purchase a spare tire, a jack, and the necessary tools to keep in your vehicle.
- Install run-flat tires: These are designed to be driven on for a limited distance after they have a puncture, giving you time to get to a service center.
- Consider self-sealing tires: These tires have an internal lining that seals small punctures automatically.
What to carry in your car
Hazard triangles or road flares, A flashlight, A tire repair kit or an air compressor, and A phone number for roadside assistance.
Where do you find your spare tire?
Temporary tires are generally stored in spare tire wells, which are typically located in the trunk of automobiles. Several off-road vehicles, such as Jeep models, have additional tires placed externally on the back door. Spare tires can be full-size matched spares or small "donut" spares.
Who to call if you don't have a spare tire?
If a spare is not available, AAA can tow your vehicle to a repair location of your choice.
How much does it cost to get a new spare tire?
HOW MUCH IS A SPARE TIRE? Temporary “donut” spare tires range in cost (due to size, performance, and brand, for example) from $50 to $200 and more. If you choose to keep and maintain a full-sized tire, then it will cost as much as whatever tire you have purchased for the other four wheels.
