Vehicles are designed with a variety of safety features, but the spare tire stands out as a straightforward yet critical component of road readiness. However, many car owners—especially those looking to optimize performance, fuel efficiency, or trunk space—wonder whether keeping a spare tire is always necessary. Does removing the spare tire help? This article explores that very question in depth, weighing the benefits and drawbacks, and offering guidance based on your driving habits, location, and lifestyle.
Understanding the Spare Tire: Purpose and Types
Before diving into the removal debate, it’s important to understand what a spare tire is and the different types available.
Full-Size vs. Temporary Spare Tires
There are primarily two types of spare tires:
- Full-Size Spare Tires: These are a perfect match for your vehicle’s regular tires in size and tread. They can be used as a direct replacement and are generally safe to drive on for extended distances.
- Temporary Spare Tires (Donuts): These are smaller and lighter, designed only for temporary use until you can get a flat repaired or replaced. They should not be driven at high speeds or for long distances.
Why Manufacturers Include Spare Tires
Car manufacturers equip most vehicles with a spare tire because flats can happen unexpectedly. While roadside assistance is now more accessible than ever, not all areas offer immediate help. A spare tire remains a reliable fallback in such situations.
Advantages of Removing Spare Tires
Despite the utility of a spare tire, there are situations where removing it can be beneficial. Here are some of the key reasons drivers might consider this action.
1. Improved Fuel Efficiency
While the fuel savings may seem minimal, removing unnecessary weight from your vehicle can positively impact fuel consumption. A typical spare tire, including the rim and jack, can weigh between 15 to 25 pounds. Removing this can reduce your vehicle’s overall weight by nearly 1–2%, which may help improve fuel economy by up to 1%—especially significant for those who drive long distances regularly.
2. Extra Trunk Space
For urban dwellers or frequent road-trippers, every inch of trunk space counts. Removing the spare tire can free up room to carry extra luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. This is particularly useful in smaller vehicles or sedans with limited trunk capacity.
3. Weight Reduction for Performance and Electric Vehicles
Performance car owners and electric vehicle (EV) enthusiasts often look for ways to reduce weight to enhance acceleration and handling. In EVs, removing the spare tire can also help extend range slightly. Some manufacturers even exclude spare tires from newer EV models to reduce weight and optimize battery usage.
4. Avoiding the Risk of Flat Spare Tires
You might not always know when your spare tire is flat or underinflated. A spare that sits unused for years can degrade or develop issues. In the event of a flat, a faulty spare can leave you stranded or force expensive towing solutions. Removing it removes the stress of maintaining an often-forgotten component.
5. Transitioning to Run-Flat Tires
Many modern cars come equipped with run-flat tires that can be driven on for 80–100 kilometers (50–60 miles) at reduced speeds after a puncture. If you own such a vehicle, or have upgraded to run-flat tires, the necessity for a spare tire can be eliminated altogether.
Disadvantages of Removing Spare Tires
While there are certain benefits, removing a spare tire is not without risk. It’s important to assess your driving behavior, frequency of travel, and location before making the decision.
1. Risk of Being Stranded
If a flat tire occurs in a remote area with limited or no cell service or roadside assistance, having a spare is a lifesaver. Without one, you may find yourself waiting hours for help, or even having to pay for towing in situations you could have resolved yourself.
2. Inconvenience on Long Road Trips
Long-distance travelers, particularly those passing through rural or less developed areas, may regret removing a spare tire. Towing may not be available for miles, and help might be slow to arrive depending on the time of day or weather.
3. Potential Legal or Warranty Implications
While rare, some vehicle warranties and insurance policies expect certain safety components—like a spare tire—to be present. Removing them could, in some cases, affect coverage claims, particularly if negligence is cited in an accident scenario.
Check with Your Manufacturer
Before removing your spare tire, always check with your car manufacturer’s recommendations. Some luxury cars with run-flat tires omit the spare by design, while others—especially SUVs and off-road vehicles—are expected to maintain a spare as part of basic functionality.
4. Maintenance Cost of Run-Flats and Towing
If you’re relying on run-flat tires or roadside assistance, the cost of tire puncture repairs can add up. Run-flat tires are more expensive than conventional tires and offer a harsher ride. Towing fees can quickly surpass what a spare tire installation might have cost.
When Should You Consider Removing a Spare Tire?
Despite the risks, removing a spare tire makes good sense for certain motorists under specific circumstances. Here are some common scenarios:
1. Urban Commuters
For those who drive primarily in cities or metropolitan areas with high accessibility to roadside assistance and tire services, a spare tire might remain unused for years.
2. Run-Flat Tire Users
If your vehicle has run-flat tires and you do not plan on long drives or remote travel, removing the spare tire is entirely justifiable. This is particularly popular among owners of high-end cars like BMWs, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsches.
3. Electric Vehicle Owners
Because electric vehicles benefit from reduced weight to extend driving range, it’s common for owners to remove the spare tire to save battery usage and increase performance.
4. Performance Car Enthusiasts
High-performance car owners looking to minimize unsprung weight often remove spare tires, jack kits, and unnecessary cargo to maintain peak performance during track use or spirited driving.
When Should You Keep the Spare Tire?
Conversely, if you fall into one or more of the following categories, you may want to think twice before removing your spare tire.
1. Off-Road and Adventure Travelers
If you spend time exploring nature trails, desert roads, or dirt paths, a spare tire is a must-have safety feature. These environments are known for sharp objects that could puncture your tires more than once.
2. Long-Distance Road Trippers
Whether it’s coast-to-coast travel across the U.S. or cross-country driving in less developed regions, having a spare can help you avoid extended waits or missed plans due to a tire emergency.
3. Owners of Older Vehicles
Older vehicles, especially those with original tires or no run-flat technology, depend heavily on a spare tire. If the vehicle is regularly driven without real-time roadside assistance access, retaining the spare is prudent.
4. Rural and Remote Area Residents
People living in areas where service providers are sparse and emergency help takes time should keep a spare tire. A puncture in such areas can mean waiting hours or even overnight for assistance.
Alternatives to Spare Tires
If you’d like the freedom of not carrying a spare but still want a fallback solution, several modern alternatives are worth considering.
1. Tire Inflators and Sealants
Tire inflators (such as Fix-a-Flat) can temporarily seal minor punctures and reinflate a tire enough to reach the nearest service station.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Cheap and easy to store
- Quick to apply
Cons:
- Works only for minor punctures
- Short-term solution only
- Not suitable for sidewall damage
2. Roadside Assistance Services
Many automakers offer free or subscription-based roadside assistance services. Programs like AAA or mobile apps like Urgently provide immediate towing, tire changes, fuel delivery, and jump starts.
Pros:
- 24/7 availability
- Handles most vehicle emergencies
- Good investment when combined with a proactive driving plan
Cons:
- Requires a service subscription
- Limited coverage in some rural areas
- Delays can occur during high-traffic events
3. Compressed Air Tanks
Portable compressors let you reinflate a slightly deflated tire. However, they are not effective for completely flat tires or punctures, and they take time to work.
Impact of Removing Spare Tires on Vehicle Warranty and Insurance
While most automakers don’t void your warranty simply for removing a spare tire, there could be legal or coverage issues if a claim could be tied to your lack of preparedness in certain circumstances.
Check the Owner’s Manual First
Manufacturers occasionally specify whether the inclusion of a spare tire is required for specific warranty protections. For example, driving without a spare tire in off-road or commercial vehicles may breach usage guidelines.
Insurance Risks?
Most auto insurance policies won’t penalize for spare tire removal unless there’s evidence of gross negligence. Always read your insurance coverage documents or speak to your provider.
What Do Experts Say?
Most automotive experts agree that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to deciding whether or not to remove a spare tire. It’s highly situational.
Consumer Reports
In reports focusing on vehicle efficiency, Consumer Reports has noted that while removing excess weight contributes to fuel efficiency, the savings are modest. The outlet often advises urban drivers to consider removal if they have access to reliable roadside help.
AAA
The American Automobile Association states that while roadside assistance is increasingly reliable, it’s not always immediately available. They advise drivers to keep a spare tire if they frequently drive outside city limits.
Car Enthusiast Communities (e.g., Reddit, Car Forums)
User reviews on car enthusiast forums suggest a strong divide in the community, with many high-performance or EV drivers reporting they feel minimal inconvenience after removal, while others—including overlanders and cross-country explorers—maintain they value the safety net of a spare tire.
When in Doubt, Weigh the Pros and Cons
To help make an informed decision, here’s a summary table that lists the general pros and cons of removing a spare tire.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Saves weight and improves fuel economy slightly | Potential risk of being stranded without help |
| Reclaims valuable trunk space | Increased reliance on paid services or third-party help |
| Eliminates need to maintain an unused spare | May not be advisable for off-road or rural driving |
| Useful for EV or performance tuning optimization | Possible warranty or insurance issues (rare) |
Final Thoughts: A Personal Decision Based on Lifestyle
So, does removing the spare tire help? The answer depends largely on your driving habits, location, and lifestyle priorities. If you’re a city-based commuter using an electric or high-end car, it might make sense to remove your spare tire in favor of trunk space or efficiency. However, if you’re a long-distance traveler, adventurer, or frequently in locations with poor reception or limited services, keeping your spare tire is a wise decision.
Considerations Before Removal:
- Do you use run-flat tires?
- Do you have access to a reliable roadside assistance plan?
- How often do you travel on remote roads or at night?
- Is your driving mostly urban or rural?
Before proceeding with removal, you should also evaluate the cost of tire sealants, compressed air alternatives, and roadside assistance subscriptions as safety nets. Ultimately, each driver’s choice will vary based on these factors. Safety, convenience, and efficiency are the three pillars under which this decision should rest.
1. Why would someone consider removing their spare tire?
Removing a spare tire is often considered to reduce vehicle weight, which can lead to slight improvements in fuel economy. Since every extra pound in a vehicle contributes to increased fuel consumption, eliminating the spare tire—especially in vehicles that carry heavy full-size spares—can make a noticeable difference over time. This is particularly appealing to those who drive long distances regularly or are focused on maximizing fuel efficiency.
Additionally, some vehicle owners prefer to free up trunk or undercarriage space for storage or aesthetic purposes. Off-road enthusiasts might also remove their spare tire temporarily to reduce vehicle weight during a trail ride. However, this decision should take into account the likelihood of encountering a flat tire and the accessibility of roadside assistance in the driver’s usual travel areas.
2. Does removing the spare tire improve fuel efficiency?
Yes, removing the spare tire can contribute to a slight improvement in fuel efficiency. The average spare tire, especially a full-size one, can weigh anywhere between 15 to 30 pounds. Since fuel efficiency is affected by vehicle weight, reducing unnecessary mass can lead to marginal savings in fuel consumption, particularly in city driving where frequent acceleration and braking amplify the effect of added weight.
However, the fuel savings are usually modest—roughly 1-2% improvement per 100 pounds removed. Therefore, while removing the spare tire can help, it’s not a dramatic fix for poor fuel economy. For most drivers, the impact is hardly noticeable unless combined with other weight reduction efforts and fuel-saving driving habits.
3. What are the safety risks of driving without a spare tire?
Driving without a spare tire means you are entirely dependent on roadside assistance if you experience a flat or blowout. This can be inconvenient or even dangerous, depending on where the flat occurs. In remote or rural areas, where help may be far away, being stranded with a flat tire can pose serious safety risks, especially at night or in harsh weather conditions.
Moreover, continuing to drive on a flat tire can cause more extensive damage to the wheel and vehicle suspension. Without a spare, you might be forced to drive longer distances on a flat, risking costly repairs. Therefore, removing the spare tire increases the importance of regular tire maintenance and a reliable emergency roadside plan or mobile tire service.
4. Are there alternatives to carrying a full spare tire?
Yes, many vehicle owners opt for alternatives like a space-saver spare tire (also known as a “donut”) or a tire repair kit. These options are lighter and take up less space compared to a full-size spare. A donut is designed for temporary use, allowing the driver to reach a nearby service station without carrying the weight of a full tire.
For more minimalist options, some drivers choose tire sealant kits and portable air compressors. These allow small punctures to be sealed on the spot, avoiding the need for a spare tire altogether. These alternatives can offer peace of mind without the weight and space constraints of a full spare, though they do have limitations on speed and driving distance.
5. How does removing the spare tire affect vehicle performance?
Removing the spare tire has a negligible effect on overall vehicle performance for most everyday driving conditions. However, reducing weight can slightly improve acceleration and handling, especially if the spare is heavy. In sports or performance-oriented vehicles, even small weight savings can make a difference in agility and responsiveness.
That said, most manufacturers design vehicles with the spare tire’s weight in mind, so its removal typically doesn’t upset the vehicle’s balance or dynamics in a significant way. Any performance gains from removing the spare are minimal compared to other modifications like upgrading brakes or suspension. For daily drivers or commuters, the practical implications of removing the spare on performance are often too small to notice.
6. Can removing the spare tire void a vehicle warranty?
In most cases, removing the spare tire does not void a vehicle’s warranty. The warranty is generally tied to the components of the vehicle itself, not the presence or absence of a spare tire. However, damage that results from driving on a flat tire, which might happen more frequently without a spare, could lead to warranty issues if it leads to damage of other drivetrain components.
It’s also important to note that some luxury or performance vehicles include advanced systems like run-flat tires or tire pressure monitoring systems, which are integrated with the vehicle’s design. Removing the spare without proper replacement or modification might interfere with those systems, possibly affecting coverage. Consult the vehicle owner’s manual or a dealership mechanic to ensure compliance with manufacturer guidelines.
7. What should I do if I decide to remove the spare tire?
If you decide to remove the spare tire, it’s essential to evaluate your driving environment and access to help in case of a flat. Consider investing in roadside assistance coverage or ensuring your mobile phone and car charger are always functional. Familiarize yourself with nearby service stations or towing companies that offer reliable 24/7 services.
Additionally, inspect your regular tires more frequently to reduce the chances of a flat. Maintaining proper inflation, checking for wear or damage, and rotating your tires regularly can help prevent flat tires. You might also choose to replace the spare with a tire sealant and portable compressor kit to address small punctures on the go. Ultimately, the goal is to stay prepared even without the physical spare in the vehicle.