Introduction to Spare Tires in Modern Cars

Despite the common belief that new cars do not come with spare wheels, this is not entirely accurate. In fact, many newer vehicles do still have one. For instance, the HYUNDAI model I acquired recently comes with a spare wheel. Similarly, my earlier purchase back in 2013, which was a Skoda, also featured a spare tire. This article delves into the reasons behind the modern trend of omitting spare tires and the alternatives available for peace of mind.

Why Opt Out of Carrying a Spare Tire?

The decision to remove spare tires from modern cars stems from the availability of cheaper and more reliable alternatives. Regularly inspected and maintained tires are much less likely to fail. Even if a tire does encounter a defect, there are other options. One effective option is to call your breakdown insurance, which will send a technician to replace the tire. Additionally, you can use a tire sealant to temporarily fix the tire and continue driving.

Experience with Flat Tires

Flat tires are far less common these days, especially for vehicles that travel on smooth roads. According to my experiences, I have had to change a tire only twice. The first time was in 1989, and the second time was in 2006, when my friend’s car got a flat tire. Post 2006, I haven’t had any issues with flat tires. This rarity means that carrying a spare tire in many areas is a waste of space.

Modern tires often use a tubeless design, making them more durable and easier to repair on the side of the road. Additionally, compact and affordable 12V air compressors are widely available, providing another option for dealing with punctures. Moreover, it is a common belief that a significant portion of drivers will seek assistance or call a service if faced with a flat tire.

These factors make spare tires somewhat obsolete for many modern vehicles.

The Case for Carrying a Spare Tire: Frequent Punctures

However, there are occasions when spare tires are necessary. For instance, living in Australia exposes me to vast regions where traveling on dirt roads is common. Such areas frequently experience punctures. For other locations with similar problems, like Africa, the need for a spare tire is equally important. In Australia, there are vast areas that are essentially unpopulated and devoid of cell phone reception, making it crucial to be prepared for flat tires.

Roadside assistance is a costly option, especially since alternative systems, such as Elon Musk's vehicle charging systems, are being implemented but at a higher cost. Therefore, for those frequently traveling on unpaved or remote terrains, a spare tire is a must-have for safety and convenience.

Spare Tire Considerations for Electric Vehicles (EVs)

Another challenge for EV owners is the long distances between charging stations. For instance, on Highway 1, a particularly long stretch, there might be only one or two charging stations every 400km, and they often require diesel-powered chargers. These stations frequently face maintenance issues, and waiting times can be extremely long, making a spare tire a practical backup.

In conclusion, while modern cars can implement different flat tire solutions, the choice to carry a spare tire depends heavily on the driving conditions and environment. Whether it's frequent punctures in remote areas or limited charging infrastructure for EV drivers, a spare tire can provide valuable peace of mind and safety.