What does a non-full-size spare tire mean?
2 Answers
Non-full-size spare tire refers to a spare tire that is slightly smaller in diameter and narrower in width compared to the regular tires. It can only be used as a temporary replacement and should not exceed a speed of 80 km/h. There are no specific rigid regulations regarding the size of spare tires. Many manufacturers opt for a smaller-sized tire as a spare to save costs. For example, if the vehicle normally uses 205 tires, the spare might be 195, which is a non-full-size spare tire. A spare tire is essentially a backup tire for the car. In case of a flat tire or any issue with a wheel, the spare tire can promptly replace it, preventing the car from being stranded midway.
A non-full-size spare tire is a type of car spare tire, smaller than the regular tire and lighter in weight. It is primarily designed to save trunk space and reduce the overall vehicle weight. I find this type of spare tire quite practical, especially common in compact cars, but it's only a temporary solution and not meant for long-term use. There are strict limitations on driving speed and distance, such as a maximum speed of around 80 km/h and a distance not exceeding 100 km. In comparison, a full-size spare tire offers more peace of mind but takes up more space. After driving for several years, I've come to understand that manufacturers opt for non-full-size spares mainly for cost and convenience reasons. The key point is that when you have a flat tire and replace it with the spare, you must drive to a repair shop as soon as possible to switch back to the original tire to avoid compromising handling safety. I recommend regularly checking the spare tire's air pressure to ensure it's normal, so you're not caught off guard when you need it.
