Spare Tires

Types of spare tires

There are several different types of spare tire to choose from, each with their own benefits:

Full-size matching spare

What is it? 

A full-size tire that matches the current ones on your vehicle. If you're using a full-size matching tire as your spare, remember to make it part of your vehicle's tire rotation pattern.

PROS

  • Maintains the aesthetics of your car.
  • Unlike temporary tires, you won’t have to drive straight to a garage to get a full-size replacement.

CONS

  • Takes up storage space if there’s not a place for it.
  • When it’s time to buy replacement tires you’ll need 5 rather than 4 if you’ve rotated all 5 of the original tires.

Full-size non-matching spare

What is it?

A full-size tire that may have a different wheel and be a different size to those you already have. If you have one of these it shouldn’t be a part of your vehicle's tire rotation pattern.

Note: please check that this is permitted under law.  Some national legislation may require you to have identical tires fitted on the same axle.

PROS

  • Unlike temporary tires, you won’t have to drive straight to a garage to get a full-size replacement.

CONS

  • Takes up storage space if there’s not a place for it.
  • Might look different to your other tires.

Full-size temporary spare

What is it?

A lightweight tire with a shallow tread depth. It should match your vehicle's tire size specifications but you should only use it as a spare.

PROS

  • Because they’re full-size, they generally don't interfere with ABS, all-wheel drive or traction control.
  • Lightweight construction won't add a lot of weight to your vehicle. 

CONS

  • Still require a ‘full-size’ amount of storage space and must still be considered temporary.

Compact temporary spare

What is it?

A lightweight tire with a shallow tread depth. It’s smaller than both standard and temporary spare tires and requires a higher inflation pressure – generally 60 psi.

PROS

  • Doesn't require the storage space of a full-size matching spare. 

CONS

  • Can impair certain vehicle features like ABS, traction control, and even speedometer operation.
  • Intended for limited and restricted usage to get you to a garage or to your dealer.

Folding temporary spare

An inflatable or collapsible temporary spare tire.

PROS

  • Takes up the least amount of storage space of the various spare tire options. 

CONS

  • A little more difficult to use as it has to be inflated with either an air pump or a canister. 
  • Intended for limited and restricted usage to get you to a garage or to your dealer.

Goodyear has also developed RunOnFlat tires.

You can use these tires if your tires are losing air, or even when they are fully deflated. They have a maximum speed when deflated of 50mph/80kph and can be used for up to 50 miles/80km. 


Buying a spare tire

Not all new vehicles come with a spare tire, so you might want to consider purchasing one when you buy your car. Don’t forget that you can always an expert for advice if you’re not sure what kind of spare tire is right for you. Take a look at our dealer locator to find out where you can buy Goodyear tires near you.

Driving on a spare tire

Before you use your spare tire, remember to:

  • Make sure it’s been properly inflated.
  • Inspect it for damage or punctures to the tread and sidewall.
  • Watch your speed – follow the instructions from your vehicle and tire manufacturer regarding your speed as well as driving distance.
  • Use it only to get as far as a garage or dealer. A spare tire (other than a full size matching spare tire) is a temporary solution.

Storing & using a spare tire

When choosing a spare tire, think about where you’re going to store it. See our list of spare tire types above to get an idea on the amount of space required for each.

Chances are, if you need to use your spare tire, you'll need to know how to change the flat in the first place. Check out the fix a flat page for a simple guide on changing tires.

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