Many new cars don't come with a spare tyre at all. Here's what to do if you have a space-saver, a spare, or nothing but an inflation kit — and when to call for emergency tyre fitting.
Until the 1990s, almost every car came with a full-size spare tyre as standard. Today, the picture is more complicated — and for many drivers, surprisingly uncertain about what's actually in their boot.
Three Categories of "Spare"
1. Full-Size Spare — A complete wheel and tyre matching your other four. These are becoming rare on new cars because they're heavy and expensive. If you have one, treat it like a fifth tyre — check its pressure regularly and keep an eye on its age.
2. Space-Saver (Temporary Use) Spare — A narrower, lighter spare that takes up less boot space. These come with speed and distance restrictions — typically maximum 50mph for no more than 50 miles. They're not designed for extended use and cannot be balanced in the same way as a standard tyre.
3. Inflation Kit Only — Many modern cars, particularly those fitted with run-flat tyres, come with no spare at all. Just a canister of sealant and a compressor. The sealant can seal a simple tread puncture, but it's useless for sidewall damage, valve failure, or any significant tyre damage.
If Your Inflation Kit Fails
If the sealant doesn't hold, you're stranded. This is precisely when emergency tyre fitting becomes essential. Call our 24 hour line and we'll come to you with the correct replacement tyre.
A Note on Inflation Kits and Mobile Fitting
If you've used a sealant kit on a tyre, always tell the mobile tyre technician. The sealant contaminates the inside of the tyre and the wheel — it needs to be cleaned before a permanent repair can be made. In many cases, the tyre and sometimes the valve assembly will need replacement.
Our Recommendation
If your vehicle has no spare, invest in breakdown cover that includes mobile tyre fitting — or save our number. A tyre inflation kit is a temporary solution only.
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