Do cars automatically come with a jack?

[VonLuke]

Most new cars no longer automatically include a jack and spare tire as standard equipment. Industry data shows a clear shift, with approximately 35% of new vehicles sold in the U.S. in 2023 omitting a spare tire, which directly correlates to the exclusion of a jack. This trend is driven by automotive manufacturers prioritizing weight reduction for improved fuel efficiency and maximizing cargo space. The decision to include a jack depends entirely on whether your specific vehicle model is equipped with a conventional spare tire.

If your car has a full-size or temporary "donut" spare, it will include a jack, typically a compact scissor jack, and a lug wrench. These are stored in the trunk under the floor mat, within a side panel compartment, or secured in the vehicle's undercarriage. The owner's manual provides the exact location. This jack is designed solely for emergency, short-term use to change a flat tire.

Conversely, many modern vehicles, especially hybrids, electric vehicles (EVs), and compact models, forego the spare tire and jack. They utilize alternative systems:

• Tire Sealant and Inflator Kits: A temporary sealant is injected to plug small punctures, coupled with a compact air compressor to reinflate the tire. This is common in models like many Tesla, Toyota Prius, and BMW i-series vehicles.
• Run-Flat Tires: These tires have reinforced sidewalls that allow you to drive for a limited distance (usually 50 miles at reduced speed) after a complete loss of air pressure, as seen on many luxury sedans.

The prevalence of these alternatives has grown significantly over the past decade. If you are unsure, the quickest way to check is to consult your vehicle's owner's manual or physically inspect the trunk storage area.

Vehicle Type	Likelihood of Including a Jack	Common Alternative if No Jack
Traditional Sedans/SUVs	High (with spare tire)	Less common
Hybrid/Electric Vehicles	Low	Tire sealant kit is standard
Performance/Luxury Cars	Low	Run-flat tires are prevalent
Compact/Economy Cars	Medium to Low	Sealant kit to save space/cost

It is critical to understand that the factory-provided scissor jack is not for prolonged repairs or maintenance. Always use it on a firm, level surface and never place any part of your body under a vehicle supported only by a jack. For regular maintenance, investing in a higher-quality hydraulic floor jack and robust jack stands is a safer, more reliable choice.

[MaxFitz]

As a mechanic for over 20 years, I see this confusion daily. People pop the trunk and are shocked there's no spare or jack. My advice? Don't assume. Open your manual now and check what your car has. Is it a real spare, a tiny donut, or just a can of goo? Knowing this before you're stranded on a highway at night is crucial. If all you have is that sealant kit, practice using it once in your driveway. The compressor has simple buttons, but fumbling with it in a panic while cars whiz by is dangerous. For folks with a spare and that little scissor jack, practice the tire change process too. Those jacks can be wobbly.

[Cruz]

I just bought a new electric SUV last month, and I was surprised when the salesperson pointed out there was no spare tire. He said it was to save weight and extend the battery range. Instead, I have a tire repair kit in the front trunk. Honestly, it made me a bit nervous at first. What if I get a big sidewall tear? The manual says the kit won't work for that, and I'd need to call for a tow. So, I called my insurance and added roadside assistance. For me, the trade-off for more interior space and efficiency was worth it, but I'm now more aware of my tire tread depth and pressure. It's a different mindset.

[MacIan]

Check your trunk. Right now. Look under the floor mat. Check the side panels. Found a tire? You have a jack. Found just a can and a pump? No jack. No spare tire = no jack. That's the simplest rule. If you have the jack, know it's for emergencies only. Use it on flat, solid ground. Never crawl under the car with just that jack holding it up. If you don't have one, consider buying a portable jack to keep in the garage. It's useful for rotations or checking brakes.

[MacAnnie]

My perspective comes from managing a fleet of rental cars. We see every make and model, and the move away from jacks is definitive. Almost all our compact cars and EVs come with tire sealant kits. The rationale from manufacturers is clear: weight savings and reduced production cost. For the average driver, the sealant kit handles most common small punctures from nails or screws. The real issue is consumer education. People rent a car, drive it for a week, and never think to check for emergency equipment. We make it a point to briefly show them the kit's location. If you're buying a used car, this is a key inspection point. Don't just test-drive it; open the trunk and see what you're actually getting. The absence of a spare and jack can affect the car's value and your preparedness. It's a fundamental change in what we consider "standard" equipment.