Why are new cars coming without a spare tire?
New cars are increasingly shipped without a traditional spare tire to save weight, reduce costs, and free up trunk space. Many models now rely on tire repair kits or run-flat tires, with roadside assistance serving as a safety backup.
Automakers say the shift improves overall efficiency, helps accommodate larger batteries in electric vehicles, and aligns with consumer habits that favor quick, service-based fixes over carrying a spare on every trip. The trend varies by region and model, and some trims still offer a spare or a space-saver, while others do not.
What’s driving the shift
Weight and fuel economy
Removing the spare reduces vehicle weight, which can improve mpg and lower emissions. For hybrid and electric models, every kilogram matters for range and efficiency.
Packaging and EV considerations
With designers squeezing more equipment into the footprint of a modern car, especially EV batteries and charging hardware, there is less space for a traditional tire. Manufacturers also use underfloor storage for tools or kits rather than a full-sized spare.
Costs and consumer behavior
A spare tire, wheel, and jack add cost and complexity. Many buyers rely on roadside assistance networks and repair shops rather than swapping a tire themselves, making a repair kit or run-flat option more appealing to automakers.
What replaces the spare?
In most new cars, you'll find one of several solutions designed to handle punctures without a full-size spare. The most common options are:
- Tire repair kit (sealant and air compressor) that can fix many punctures on the spot
- Run-flat tires that let you continue driving a limited distance at reduced speed
- Temporary space-saver spare wheels in some trims for a short-distance fix
- Roadside assistance programs that cover towing and tire replacement if needed
- Enhanced tire protection plans offered by some manufacturers
These approaches save weight and free up cargo space, but they also come with trade-offs, such as limited repair options, higher replacement costs, or reliance on support networks in remote areas.
Practical considerations for shoppers and owners
To plan for tire emergencies, consumers should verify what comes with the car and consider their travel patterns and risk tolerance.
- Check the vehicle’s equipment list to confirm whether a spare, space-saver, or repair kit is included
- Assess how easy it would be to obtain a replacement tire in your region, including availability of the exact tire size
- Consider adding roadside assistance or a tire protection plan if you frequently drive in areas with limited service options
- Think about your typical trips and climate—remote rural routes or long highway stretches increase the value of a spare or robust repair option
- Keep a basic emergency kit in the car (portable inflator, sealant, flashlight) regardless of spare status
A proactive plan, including knowing what your car includes and having an appropriate backup option, can reduce hassle if you do experience a flat.
Summary
In summary, the move away from standard spare tires reflects a blend of efficiency, space optimization, and evolving consumer practices. Cars are increasingly equipped with tire repair kits or run-flat tires, and roadside support networks fill in where a spare would have been. Buyers should verify what their vehicle includes and decide whether a spare, a repair kit, or a service plan best matches their needs and driving environment.
