24/08/2023
Do You Need a Spare Wheel for Your MOT?
The question of whether a spare wheel is a requirement for your vehicle's MOT test is a common one, and the answer might surprise you. While a flat tyre can be a significant inconvenience, the MOT regulations focus on the wheels and tyres currently fitted to your vehicle at the time of inspection. According to the MOT manual, "You only need to inspect the road wheels fitted to the vehicle at the time of the inspection. If you notice a defect on a spare wheel, you should tell the vehicle presenter about it." This means that while a faulty spare wheel won't cause your vehicle to fail its MOT, it's crucial to be aware of its condition. If you do use your spare wheel, it must be in good condition and meet the minimum tread depth requirements, just like any other road tyre.
The absence of a spare wheel in newer vehicles is a growing trend. Many car manufacturers are no longer including a full-size spare as standard. This decision is driven by several factors, including the desire to reduce vehicle weight for better fuel efficiency, to increase boot space, and to cut manufacturing costs. As a result, when purchasing any vehicle, whether new or used, it's essential to check what provisions, if any, are made for dealing with a puncture. Don't assume a spare will be present; it's a detail you cannot afford to overlook.
Spare Wheel Alternatives: What Are Your Options?
With the decline of the full-size spare, various alternatives have emerged to help drivers manage tyre emergencies. Each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages:
1. Temporary Use ‘Skinny’ Spare (Space-Saver)
These are smaller and lighter than a standard wheel, designed for temporary use to get you to a tyre repair shop. They are often limited by speed and distance restrictions, meaning you should avoid long journeys and aim to replace the damaged tyre as soon as possible. A significant drawback is the need to find a place to store the full-size wheel you removed.
2. Tyre Sealant and Compressor Kit
This popular alternative consists of a canister of sealant and a small air compressor. It can be a quick fix for minor punctures, especially if the tyre hasn't been driven on while flat. However, if the tyre has been run flat, the damage might be too severe for the sealant to be effective. Importantly, once the sealant is used, it needs to be replaced, adding an ongoing cost.
3. Run-Flat Tyres
Run-flat tyres are designed to allow you to continue driving for a limited distance at a reduced speed after a puncture. This offers convenience and avoids the immediate need to stop and change a wheel. However, they come with their own set of challenges. They can be more expensive to replace when worn, and many tyre repair specialists are reluctant to repair a punctured run-flat tyre, often recommending a full replacement, which can be a costly outcome.
4. Full-Size Spare
The traditional full-size spare offers the most straightforward solution, allowing for a direct replacement of the damaged tyre. In theory, you can simply 'fit and forget' and then deal with the damaged tyre later. However, it's vital to remember that you still need to get the damaged tyre repaired or replaced promptly. The presence of a full-size spare also means a heavier vehicle and less boot space.
Essential Tools for Changing a Wheel
If your car is equipped with a spare wheel, it's not enough to simply have the wheel itself. You must also ensure you have the necessary tools to perform the change. This includes:
- Jack: To lift the vehicle safely.
- Wheel Brace/Wrench: To loosen and tighten the wheel nuts.
- Locking Wheel Nut Adaptor: If your vehicle has locking wheel nuts, which are designed to prevent alloy wheel theft, you will need the specific adaptor to remove them. These adaptors are unique to each set of locking nuts.
It's crucial to check that all these items are present and in good working order. Without the correct tools, changing a wheel, especially in an emergency situation or if you're alone, can become an impossible task.
Maintaining Your Spare Wheel
A spare wheel is only useful if it's ready for use. Regular maintenance is key:
- Check Tyre Pressure: The pressure in your spare tyre can drop over time, just like any other tyre. Make it a habit to check its pressure periodically, perhaps every few months or when you check your main tyres. A flat spare is as useless as a flat tyre on the road.
- Inspect for Damage: Regularly examine the spare tyre for any signs of wear, cracks, or damage. While it might not be inspected for your MOT, a damaged spare is unsafe to use.
- Check the Tools: Ensure the jack and wheel brace are stored correctly and are not corroded or damaged.
Remember, you cannot legally use a spare wheel in place of a road wheel unless it is in good condition and meets the minimum tread depth requirements. If you do have to use your spare, prioritise getting the damaged tyre replaced as soon as possible and carefully check the condition of the spare before returning it to your boot.
Where Can You Buy a Spare Wheel?
If you find your vehicle lacks a spare wheel or you want a replacement, consider these options:
- New Car Manufacturers: When buying a new car, you can often opt for a full-size spare wheel as an optional extra, usually at an additional cost.
- Used Car Market: You might find a suitable second-hand spare wheel. However, be prepared to fit a new tyre to it and potentially purchase a jack and wheel removal tools if they weren't included with the car.
- Parts Counters: Your local car parts retailer or dealership can often supply spare wheels, ensuring you have a reliable backup for emergencies.
Investing in a spare wheel and the necessary tools is a sensible precaution for any driver. Being prepared can save you considerable time, stress, and expense should you encounter a tyre-related issue on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Will a missing spare wheel cause my car to fail its MOT?
No, a missing or faulty spare wheel will not cause your car to fail its MOT. The MOT inspection only covers the wheels and tyres currently fitted to the vehicle.
Q2: Can I use a space-saver spare tyre for a long journey?
It is not recommended. Space-saver or temporary spare tyres have speed and distance limitations. You should use them only for short distances to reach a tyre repair centre.
Q3: How often should I check the pressure in my spare tyre?
It's advisable to check the pressure in your spare tyre at least every 3-6 months, or whenever you check the pressure in your regular tyres.
Q4: What should I do after using my spare tyre?
You should get the damaged tyre repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Also, inspect the spare tyre for any damage and ensure it's correctly inflated before storing it back in your vehicle.
Q5: Are run-flat tyres a good alternative to a spare wheel?
Run-flat tyres offer convenience by allowing you to drive after a puncture, but they can be more expensive to replace and may not always be repairable, potentially leading to higher costs in the long run.
If you want to read more articles similar to Spare Wheels: MOT, Maintenance & More, you can visit the Automotive category.