The practice is spreading, and more and more new car buyers are learning – many of the newest vehicles do not include a spare tire, jack or lug wrench. There are about a dozen makes of cars, each with several models, that do not provide a spare, among them, Chevrolet, Ford, Kia, BMW, Hyundai and Jeep.
It may seem crazy, but car makers have turned to this omission as a way to reduce weight and meet new demands in fuel economy. Unfortunately, unsuspecting drivers can get caught unawares and find themselves stranded with a flat tire.
What are your options?
First of all, check your car. Many that do not have a spare will include a tire repair kit that consists of a sealant and tire pump. This may be handy if you pick up a nail, but if your tire blows out or the sidewall is damaged, a tire sealant usually isn’t enough to get you on the road again.
Consider the following to be safe on the road:
- Purchase a roadside assistance plan – Some car makers have added membership in a roadside assistance program in lieu of a spare tire. Confirm with your dealer whether they do and the length of the membership. Your dealership may even provide complementary roadside assistance and maintenance. Otherwise, this is a worthwhile investment.
- Purchase an extra tire and wheel – Most drivers have said they prefer this option to the mini spare that many vehicles had been outfitted with prior to the trend toward eliminating the spare altogether. Save some money by seeking out the right size wheel and a used tire at a salvage yard. Be sure you also buy a jack and lug wrench to complete your kit.
- Replace your tires with run-flat tires – Run flat tires are designed to maintain pressure if they are punctured, allowing you to drive to a repair shop. Most are designed to run 50 miles, with your tire pressure monitoring system alerting you when the tire is damaged. While they can be expensive and you sacrifice some ride quality, this can be a great option.
- Get educated on a tire repair kit – If your car comes with a repair kit, take the time to learn how to use it. If it does not, tire sealant and simple to use tire inflators are available at auto parts stores. The sealant coats the inside of the tire and dries, sealing the puncture so that you can reinflate the tire. Use a compressor that operates off your 12-volt power outlet in your car.
If you have questions about how to deal with a roadside emergency, your local mechanic can help you find the best solution for you or your family members. Statistics show that some 20% of drivers don’t know how to change a tire. Getting help and getting to safety should be the primary goal of any plan.
For guidance on emergency kits, spare tires and equipment, calling for assistance, and having your car towed for service, talk to the experts at Hills & Dale AutoCare or click here for more details on available auto care services.