Living on a Spare: Everything You Need to Know About Spare Tires

Imagine you're in the middle of a road trip, gliding carelessly down a peaceful, desolate road. Suddenly, you notice your car drifting to one side, evidently of its own accord. You have a flat tire, but your travels have taken you far from the nearest auto shop. Luckily, you had the foresight to pack a spare tire, and you could fix the problem yourself. Flat tires are wildly inconvenient, and there's no way to predict when they'll occur. To learn more about this key element to driving, read our handy guide about what spare tires are and how to install them. 

Donut vs full-sized spares 

Donut spares 

Donut spares, sometimes called temporary spares, are used as a stand-in for full sized tires. If your car is on the smaller side, it may not be able to handle the extra weight of carrying a full-sized spare. Donut spares are a smaller alternative that drivers can use as a tire substitution for short periods. If a tire goes flat, you can replace it with a donut spare to get to the next location. However, a donut spare is not meant for long-distance or strenuous driving. Because they're smaller than standard tires, they aren't designed to support your car permanently. Because of their shallower tread pattern, donuts work best on dry roads. If the roads are wet, a donut may not get the traction needed for a car to move. Use donuts in a pinch, but don't forget to replace them with an actual tire as soon as you can. 

Full-sized spares 

If your vehicle is equipped to handle more weight, you can make things easy for yourself by toting around a full-sized spare tire. A full-sized spare will match the size of your other wheels, and driving on it won't feel any different than driving on the tire that flattened. When you swap a tire out for a full-sized spare, your job is done. Unlike a donut, a full-sized spare will be a permanent addition to your car. 

What tools do I need to change a tire? 

You can carry around a spare tire at all times, but it won't be useful if you don't have the tools to back it up. Changing a tire is easier than it sounds and only requires a few simple tools. Read on to learn which tools should always be kept in your trunk. 

Wheel wedges 

You can prop these up against the wheels of your car, so the vehicle can't start moving and cause injury or damage. Taking this precaution will make you feel more comfortable, and it could prevent a severe accident. 

A wrench 

Removing your old tire is the first step to equipping your car with a new one. To do this, use a lug or torque wrench to unscrew lug nuts. 

A car jack 

Because cars are so heavy, you'll need a particular device to elevate yours when changing a flat. This is the purpose of a car jack, which will lift the vehicle and allow you to remove the flat tire. Once you've loosened the lug nuts, raise your car at least six inches off the ground. Now it's time to remove the lug nuts and align your spare tire. Replace lug nuts and tighten them, then use a wrench to double check that they're secure. 

Know when to ask for help 

If attempts to change a tire by yourself aren't working, don't be afraid to seek help elsewhere. If you can't be sure your car is safe, calling roadside assistance is the best option. Harsh weather and chaotic traffic can make tire changes more stressful; changing a flat in these conditions might lead to mistakes. Novices, don't feel pressured to change a tire on your own if doing so will risk your safety. Furthermore, don't forget to swap a donut spare for a full-sized tire as soon as possible. 

Shop Transwest 

Is your car not working like it used to? If you can't rely on your vehicle, it's probably time to purchase a new one. Transwest sells a wide selection of cars and trucks, and each of them are well-built and durable. View them on our website, or stop by and take a test drive today.