Posted on 2/25/2026
Most drivers don’t think about their spare tire until they’re stuck on the side of the road with a flat. Unfortunately, that’s often when people discover their spare isn’t ready to use, or doesn’t work the way they expected. Knowing the type of spare tire your vehicle has, how to use it, and how to maintain it can make a stressful situation much easier to handle. A spare tire is an important safety backup, but it’s not meant to replace a regular tire permanently. Understanding its limitations and care requirements helps you stay safe and avoid unnecessary damage. Types of Spare Tires Not all spare tires are the same. The type of spare included with your vehicle affects how far and how fast you can drive after installing it. Most vehicles are equipped with one of the following spare tire types: Full-size spare: Matches the size of your regular tires and can usually be driven like a standard tire, though it may not match tread wear. Compact or &l ... read more