Spare tires care is important

Pow! Boom! Pock! Your vehicle has a flat tire but don't be worried. In a short while you will be back on the road, resuming your trip. However, before getting to the next exit there is a chance that pieces of your spare tire may flying off all over the highway.

That's why a functional spare is a safety accessory to carry, but it must not be underinflated or dry rotted. Otherwise it may not be that useful! A spare stored at the bottom of the trunk under tons of trash is not handy either. So, here is a checklist of situations to avoid so that your small emergency tire is able to do the rigth job, which to send you back home safe and sound!

Inaccessibility

One of the top reason spares are deflated or dry rotted is inaccessibility. Your periodic do-it-yourself vehicle maintenance should include a verification of your emergency tire. If your maintenance is done by the local car service shop then insist on getting your mechanic to check your spare ... if he can get to it. Make his life easy, clear the trunk before going to the garage. Your mechanic will more than happy to take care of your spare.

Dry Rotting

Tires tend to deteriorate with time. Although this problem is not as common as underinflation, it bears consideration. Tires do have a shelf life. As they age they will begin to dry and crack in the sidewall. This is usually the first sign of the development of a dry rotting condition. Again, a periodic check-up will ensure the conditiob is spotted before getting too serious.

Underinflation or Deflation

Underinflation or deflation is responsible for most bad spare scenarios. If your spare tire is low, it may shred on the way home or to the service facility. The distance you can travel before this happens is directly related to the tire's inflation level. Every month or so you, check the pressure of the spare ... as well as the other four tires.

Final Comments

Some models of space saving spare tires are designed to last up to 3,000 miles at highway speeds. The majority of the models are made to drive at 50 m.p.h. limit. Car makers do make a point that spares are made for temporary use. It is in your best interest to replace it with a full-size tire as soon as you can.

Keep your compact spare tire and its wheel together and do not use them on another vehicle.

Do not use tire chains on spare tires. They may not fit in the first place and may damage your vehicle.

Don't even think about driving through a car wash that pulls the vehicle along guide rails. The spare can get caught on the rail and damage the wheel, tire and possibly other parts of your vehicle as well.