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Where Is the Spare Tire? Car Expert Lauren Fix

723 views · Published 31 October 2012 · 1:41 · Indexed 26 October 2026

Channel: Car Coach Reports · 2012 · Autos & Vehicles

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Courtesy of YNN/ Time Warner Cable
Aired: 3/06/2012 

Vehicle spare tires are on the endangered list because of new fuel economy rules, and may soon be a thing of the past. Have you looked for yours lately? Lauren Fix, the Car Coach, tells you why you should look now.

If you're buying a new car, it's important to know whether or not it comes with a spare tire. This maybe a consideration when purchasing your next vehicle.

To meet new government fuel-efficiency standards, some vehicle manufacturers are omitting heavy spare tires and equipping new vehicles with an emergency sealant and inflator kit. Others are providing tires that, if damaged, can run reasonable distances without air. These tires are known as run-flats.

New standards set by the Department of Transportation and Environmental Protection Agency require a combined 29.7 mpg for the 2012 model year, increasing to 34.1 mpg by 2016.

One way to meet these standards is to reduce vehicle weight. A spare tire, related tools, and a jack can weigh more than 40 lbs - weight that can be eliminated without adding cost to the vehicle.

Unfortunately, many vehicle owners may be unaware that their vehicle has no spare tire until after they experience a flat. Check your owner's manual to see what your vehicle is equipped with and adjust your emergency kit as needed. This may mean that you prefer a tire inflation product or having to purchase run-flat tires when yours are worn.

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