Why are spare tires not included?

In recent years, many new cars have been sold without a spare tire included as standard equipment. This may come as a surprise to some consumers, but there are several reasons why automakers have made this decision. The primary factors behind this trend are the desire to reduce vehicle weight and cost, as well as the increasing prevalence of alternative tire repair solutions.

Reducing Vehicle Weight and Cost

Automakers are constantly seeking ways to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, and one of the strategies they have employed is to reduce the overall weight of the vehicle. Spare tires can add significant weight to a car, often ranging from 30 to 50 pounds or more. By eliminating the spare tire, automakers can shave off this weight, leading to better gas mileage and lower emissions.

In addition to the weight savings, removing the spare tire also reduces the manufacturing and material costs associated with that component. This allows automakers to offer vehicles at a lower price point, which can be an important factor for many consumers. web>

Alternative Tire Repair Solutions

Another reason for the decline of the spare tire is the increasing availability of alternative tire repair solutions. Many new cars now come equipped with tire inflation kits, which include a portable air compressor and a sealant that can be used to temporarily repair a flat tire. These kits are generally lighter and take up less space than a full-size spare tire.

Additionally, the rise of run-flat tires and tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) has made it easier for drivers to continue driving with a punctured tire, at least for a limited distance. Run-flat tires can maintain their shape and allow the vehicle to be driven for a certain number of miles, even with a complete loss of air pressure. TPMS systems alert the driver when a tire's pressure is low, allowing them to address the issue before it becomes a more serious problem.

Conclusion

While the absence of a spare tire may be an inconvenience for some drivers, the decision by automakers to omit this feature is primarily driven by the desire to reduce vehicle weight and cost, as well as the availability of alternative tire repair solutions. As technology continues to evolve, it's likely that we'll see even more changes in the way vehicles are equipped to address flat tires and other tire-related issues.

Why don't new cars come with spare tires anymore?

Most new cars omit a full-size spare for a combination of engineering, cost, regulatory and consumer-priorities reasons. The decision reflects trade-offs between weight, space, fuel economy, cost, and the availability of alternative solutions.

Why doesn't my car come with a spare tire?

Your car does not have a spare tire to save weight, reduce manufacturing costs, and create more interior and trunk space. Automakers have also replaced them with alternatives like tire repair kits (sealant and an air pump) or run-flat tires, which can be driven for a short distance after a puncture. 
Reasons for eliminating spare tires

• Weight reduction: Removing the spare tire, jack, and lug wrench saves a significant amount of weight, which helps improve fuel economy and meet government regulations. 
• Cost savings: Eliminating the spare tire and its related hardware reduces the overall cost of manufacturing the vehicle. 
• More space: The space traditionally used for a spare tire can be repurposed for other features, such as a larger battery in electric vehicles, more cargo space, or other components. 
• Alternative solutions: Modern technology offers other options for dealing with flats: 
  • Tire repair kits: Many cars now come with a sealant and an air compressor to temporarily fix a flat tire. 
  • Run-flat tires: These are designed to be driven on for a limited distance (e.g., up to 50 miles) at reduced speed after losing air pressure. 

What to do if you have a flat

• If your car came with a repair kit, use it according to the instructions. Be aware that these are often intended as a temporary fix to get you to a repair shop, and they may not work for all types of tire damage. 
• If your car has run-flat tires, check the owner's manual to understand the limitations on speed and distance before needing a replacement. 
• If you are unsure whether your vehicle came with a spare or an alternative, check your owner's manual or the paperwork that came with your car.

What do I do if I get a flat tire and have no spare?

Easiest option is to simply call a tow truck. Get towed to the tire repair shop , get a coffee, and be waiting when they open.

Are dealerships supposed to give you a spare tire?

No, dealerships are not legally required to provide a spare tire, as many new cars no longer come equipped with one from the manufacturer to save weight and improve fuel economy. Some new cars now include a tire repair kit as a replacement. When buying a car, you should ask about a spare tire to ensure it is included, and for used cars, check for the spare and its condition, as it may not have been included or may need to be added. 
For new cars

• Manufacturer's decision: Automakers decide whether to include a spare tire from the factory based on model design. 
• Tire repair kits: It is common for new cars to come with a tire inflation and sealant kit instead of a spare. 
• Weight and fuel efficiency: The trend away from spare tires is to reduce vehicle weight, which slightly improves gas mileage. 

For used cars

• No legal obligation: Dealers are generally not legally obligated to provide a spare tire with a used vehicle. 
• Check what's included: It is crucial to verify if the car originally had a spare and if it is still present. 
• Ask the dealer: You should ask the dealer about the spare tire before you buy the car. 

What to do if there is no spare

• Ask about a kit: Check if the car comes with a tire repair kit and an air compressor. 
• Negotiate the price: You can ask the dealer to include a spare tire and tools as part of the purchase agreement. 
• Purchase one yourself: You can buy a spare tire kit yourself to ensure you have a working spare. 
• Inspect the spare: If the car does have a spare, check its air pressure and condition to ensure it is usable.