Is the Spare Tire of a Sedan the Same as the Original Tire?
2 Answers
Sedan spare tires are not the same as the original tires. Spare tires are only suitable for slow-speed and short-distance driving. Prolonged use can affect driving safety. Most car spare tires are not full-size tires and, unlike the original tires, are not perfectly matched to the vehicle for long-distance travel. Spare tires also have a limited lifespan. Even if they are frequently stored unused at the back, they are still made of rubber and generally have a service life of about five years. After this period, it is recommended to replace them, or a repaired tire can be used as a spare. It is important to note that spare tires are only for temporary use and should not be used long-term, as this can significantly impact safety.
A few days ago, I had a flat tire from a nail puncture and only then realized how different the spare tire was compared to the original when using it for the first time. Most sedan spare tires are non-full-size, narrower than the original tire, with steel rims made of iron. Manufacturers design them this way mainly to save trunk space and reduce weight, considering spare tires are rarely used for years. After installation, the dashboard immediately showed a tire pressure warning, with a maximum speed limit of 80 km/h, and the ride felt noticeably unstable. I hurried to a repair shop to fix the punctured tire, where the experienced mechanic said such spare tires are only for temporary emergencies—shallow tread patterns and no drainage grooves make them prone to slipping in rain. Regularly check the spare tire’s pressure every quarter, and even if unused, the rubber expires in about five years and needs replacement.
