A full-sized spare wheel is an increasingly rare sight in the boot of today’s car. An Auto Express survey of models on sale in the UK has revealed only one-third now carry them.
And if you’re buying a Ford, Honda, Volvo, MINI or Jaguar, you won’t find a standard spare at all. We checked the equipment list of 148 new cars, and only 50 were fitted with a replacement. Instead, 47 per cent had a space-saver – a downsized wheel that can be used as a short-term fix.
A further 16 per cent came with instant repair foam, which temporarily re-inflates and seals the damaged tyre. Five per cent ran on run-flats with stiffened sidewalls, which can be driven with a puncture at 50mph for up to 50 miles.
But the RAC says removing spares could put motorists at risk. “Tyres are often shredded, so repair kits won’t work,” a spokesman explained. “And motorway drivers would have to wait on the hard shoulder, which is really dangerous.”
Quality car insurance from the UKs top insurers. Start saving money today!
www.bewiser.co.uk
Social Bookmarks