What is the difference between a car spare tire and a normal tire?

[JosieDella]

Car spare tires are generally divided into non-full-size spare tires and full-size spare tires. Non-full-size spare tires are usually one size smaller than normal tires. Because they are different in size from normal tires, they are only suitable for short-distance use. Full-size spare tires are generally the same size as normal tires except for the rims, but their tread depth is usually different from the tires in use. Long-term use can cause abnormal wear on other tires, leading to problems such as vehicle deviation. They cannot be used for a long time. Car spare tire replacement: Step 1, take out the corresponding tools and spare tire. Step 2, use a jack to slightly lift the car, then use a tire wrench to loosen the tire nuts. Do not unscrew them completely; wait until the tire is lifted off the ground before removing them all. The direction to loosen the screws is to turn them in the direction of the rear of the car. Step 3, use the jack to support the chassis, generally there are position prompts for the support points. Remember to keep the support point and the ground support surface perpendicular to avoid instability and tipping. Step 4, remove the old tire, install the new tire, and tighten the nuts in a diagonal sequence. Step 5, loosen the jack and remove it, then place the tire that needs repair back into the trunk. Remember to repair the tire promptly. The vehicle can then be driven, but pay attention to controlling the speed.

[LenaLee]

Last time my car had a flat tire on the highway, I used the spare tire, and it felt completely different. The spare tire is much smaller than a regular tire, with reduced dimensions—it's like a temporary emergency tool. Driving with it feels wobbly, and the speed shouldn't exceed 80 km/h, otherwise it's prone to losing control. Regular tires are full-sized, with strong grip, making long-distance driving stable. The spare tire has thinner material and a shorter lifespan; if left unused for too long, it can age and crack, so it's important to regularly check its pressure. I recommend checking the spare tire during every maintenance service to ensure it's in good condition. Some modern cars don’t even come with a spare tire anymore, opting for tire repair kits instead, but I still think carrying a spare tire is more reassuring. If you get a flat, you can change it yourself, saving the cost and time of calling a tow truck.

[LuciaAnn]

After driving for so many years, I've deeply realized the differences between spare tires and regular tires. Spare tires are designed for emergencies, with a simple structure, lightweight, and taking up less space in the trunk, but they have strict speed limits and should not be driven over the speed limit. Regular tires are the daily workhorses, made of thick and durable materials, capable of handling high speeds and heavy loads. Spare tires require higher air pressure, and if maintenance is often neglected, they can fail; regular tires need regular rotation and balancing. In terms of safety, spare tires have poor handling and are unstable when turning, and I've seen accidents caused by misuse. From an economic perspective, having a spare tire can save on towing fees, but in the long run, regular tires are more cost-effective.

[SanAriana]

As a family car user, I am concerned about the safety implications of spare tires. Spare tires are smaller in size and cannot be used for extended periods, posing significant risks especially when carrying children. Regular tires are more reliable but require frequent maintenance. The key differences are: spare tires are for temporary emergency use, made of lightweight materials, and prone to air leakage; regular tires are full-sized and durable. Additionally, some new cars come with inflation kits as alternatives, but I find spare tires more practical. In case of a flat tire, after replacing it with a spare, one must drive slowly to a repair shop and promptly switch back to a regular tire.