There are several different types of spare tyre to choose from, each with their own benefits:
A full-size tyre that matches the current ones on your vehicle. If you're using a full-size matching tyre as your spare, remember to make it part of your vehicle's tyre rotation pattern.
A full-size tyre that may have a different wheel and be a different size to those you already have. If you have one of these it shouldn’t be a part of your vehicle's tyre rotation pattern.
Note: please check that this is permitted under law. Some national legislation may require you to have identical tyres fitted on the same axle.
A lightweight tyre with a shallow tread depth. It should match your vehicle's tyre size specifications but you should only use it as a spare.
A lightweight tyre with a shallow tread depth. It’s smaller than both standard and temporary spare tyres and requires a higher inflation pressure – generally 60 psi.
An inflatable or collapsible temporary spare tyre.
Goodyear has also developed RunOnFlat tyres.
You can use these tyres if your tyres are losing air, or even when they are fully deflated. They have a maximum speed when deflated of 50mph/80kph and can be used for up to 50 miles/80km.
Not all new vehicles come with a spare tyre, so you might want to consider purchasing one when you buy your car. Don’t forget that you can always ask an expert for advice if you’re not sure what kind of spare tyre is right for you. Take a look at our dealer locator to find out where you can buy Goodyear tyres near you.
Before you use your spare tyre, remember to:
When choosing a spare tyre, think about where you’re going to store it. See our list of spare tyre types above to get an idea on the amount of space required for each.
Chances are, if you need to use your spare tyre, you'll need to know how to change the flat in the first place. Check out the fix a flat page for a simple guide on changing tyres.