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There are several options when it comes to picking a spare tyre, each with their own pros and cons. Here are the choices:
What is it?
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.
PROS
CONS
What is it?
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: Some national legislation may require you to have identical tyres fitted on the same axle, so please check this option is permitted under local law.
PROS
CONS
What is it?
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.
PROS
CONS
What is it?
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.
PROS
CONS
What is it?
An inflatable or collapsible temporary spare tyre.
PROS
CONS
Dunlop has also developed Run On Flat tyres, which you can still drive on even when they 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 – which should hopefully be enough to get you to a garage.
Since not all new vehicles come with a spare tyre 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 Dunlop tyres near you.
Driving on a spare tyre
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. Refer to our own fix a flat page for a simple guide on changing tyres.