For decades, the spare tire has been a constant companion in our trunks—an unspoken symbol of automotive preparedness. But let’s face it: most drivers today have no idea how to change a tire, and even fewer are willing to try it on the side of a busy road. So why are we still lugging around this heavy, dusty, space-eating relic? It’s time to be bold and say it: throw away the spare tire in your car immediately—because you won’t change it!
The Myth of the Spare Tire
Let’s start with the obvious: the spare tire gives us a false sense of security. We think it’s our savior when disaster strikes, but how many of us can actually jack up a car, remove the lug nuts, and mount the spare safely and correctly? Very few.
Car manufacturers used to include full-sized spare tires in every vehicle. Over time, these were downgraded to space-saving “donuts” or emergency spares. These mini-tires are not designed for long-distance driving or high speeds. In fact, many come with warnings not to exceed 80 km/h or drive more than 80 kilometers.
Despite their limitations, many drivers still rely on these emergency spares, thinking they can handle any flat. But when the moment comes—flat tire on a rainy night, on the shoulder of a busy highway, with poor lighting—panic sets in. That’s when the reality hits: you won’t change that tire.
The Rise of Roadside Assistance
Let’s be honest. If you’re like most modern drivers, your first reaction to a flat tire isn’t to pop the trunk and get to work. It’s to pull out your smartphone and call roadside assistance. Services like AAA, insurance providers, and even car brands themselves now offer rapid-response roadside help. Often, someone can be at your location within 30 minutes to an hour.
These trained professionals have the right tools, experience, and safety gear to change your tire properly—or even tow your car if necessary. Why risk your life or struggle on your own when help is just a phone call away?
More Space, Less Weight, Better Efficiency
Carrying a spare tire and the accompanying tools adds significant weight to your vehicle—anywhere from 20 to 50 pounds. This might not sound like much, but when you consider fuel efficiency, every pound matters. A lighter car is a more efficient car.
By ditching the spare tire, you free up valuable trunk space and reduce overall weight. That means better mileage and more room for the things you actually need—groceries, luggage, sports gear, or emergency kits that are actually useful.
Enter the Modern Alternatives
If you’re still worried about driving without a spare, don’t be. Technology has evolved. Here are a few smart alternatives to keep you protected:
- Run-flat tires
These special tires can continue driving for 80 to 100 kilometers even after a puncture. They are reinforced to support the weight of your car without air pressure. While they cost more, they eliminate the need for a spare and give you peace of mind. - Tire repair kits
These compact kits include sealant and a small compressor. They can temporarily fix small punctures, giving you enough time to reach a service center. They’re lightweight, affordable, and far easier to use than changing a tire. - Mobile tire services
In urban areas, mobile tire services are growing in popularity. These companies will come to your home or work and replace or repair your tire on the spot. No stress, no mess, and no heavy lifting required.
Safety First—Always
Changing a tire on the side of the road can be extremely dangerous. According to roadside safety statistics, hundreds of people are injured or killed each year while trying to perform emergency repairs on highways. Drivers distracted by phones, fatigue, or bad weather can easily veer off the road, hitting someone who’s crouched beside a car.
If you’re not trained in roadside safety or don’t carry proper reflective gear, flares, or hazard lights, you’re putting yourself in harm’s way. Calling for professional help is not only smarter—it’s safer.
You’re Not Alone
Still think you might be the one exception who’ll roll up their sleeves and change the tire? Consider this: a recent survey revealed that nearly 60% of drivers under the age of 40 have never changed a tire. Many don’t even know where their spare tire is located, let alone how to use a jack.
Add in factors like dark roads, bad weather, physical strength limitations, or poor lighting, and it’s clear: the spare tire is more symbolic than practical. It’s a remnant of a bygone era, clinging to relevance in a world that has moved on.
What You Should Carry Instead
If you’re ready to toss the spare, make sure to replace it with something more useful. Here’s a modern emergency kit that makes more sense:
- Tire repair kit with sealant and inflator
- Emergency LED road flares or reflective triangles
- First-aid kit
- USB power bank for your phone
- Portable jump starter
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Blanket and water
These items are more likely to keep you safe and comfortable in a real emergency than a spare tire you probably won’t even touch.
Conclusion: Ditch the Dead Weight
In today’s world, where roadside assistance is just a call away and advanced tire technologies are readily available, the spare tire has become a burden—not a backup. It weighs you down, takes up space, and contributes to a false sense of self-sufficiency.
So be honest with yourself: when the time comes, will you really get out and change that tire? Or will you call for help like the vast majority of drivers today?
If the answer is the latter, do yourself a favor: throw away the spare tire in your car immediately. Replace it with tools and technology that suit the way we drive now—not how we did 30 years ago.
It’s time to drive smarter, lighter, and safer. And that starts with letting go of the things we don’t need—even if they’ve been riding in our trunks for years.
