What You Need to Know About Space Saver Tyres – Pros, Cons & Road Trip Readiness | Tynan Motors

Whether you’re buying a new car or getting ready for a road trip, understanding your vehicle’s spare tyre setup is essential. At Tynan Motors, we’re often asked, “Why do some cars come with space saver tyres instead of full-sized spares?”

Let’s break down the differences, advantages, and limitations of space saver or temporary use spare tyres (TUSTs)—so you can hit the road with confidence.

Why Do Modern Cars Use Space Saver Tyres?

It all comes down to efficiency and space. Modern vehicles are designed to be lightweight and aerodynamic, which helps reduce fuel consumption and emissions. A bulky, full-size spare tyre can interfere with this goal by:

• Adding unnecessary weight
• Taking up valuable boot space
• Increasing vehicle drag (in the case of external storage)

That's why many manufacturers, including those of electric vehicles (EVs) and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, are shifting toward space savers or even eliminating spares entirely in favour of tyre repair kits or run-flat tyres.

Space Saver Tyres: The Basics

Space saver tyres are temporary-use spare tyres designed to get you off the roadside and to a mechanic—not to replace a full-size tyre indefinitely. Here’s what you need to know:

• Speed limit: Typically limited to 80km/h (check your car’s manual)
• Range: Can usually be driven for a few hundred kilometres
• Ideal placement: Should be installed on the rear axle when possible
• Handling: Reduced grip affects steering and braking performance

Pros of Space Saver Tyres

✔ More Boot Space Space saver tyres are compact and free up space in your boot—great for extra luggage on road trips.

✔ Lower Weight Their lighter weight helps reduce fuel use and exhaust emissions.

✔ Cost-Effective They’re cheaper to manufacture and buy, potentially lowering the overall cost of your vehicle.

✔ Promotes Tyre Maintenance Their temporary nature encourages you to repair or replace the flat tyre promptly, unlike full-size spares that can sit unnoticed for months.

Cons of Space Saver Tyres

✘ Limited Range and Speed Restricted to lower speeds and shorter distances—less ideal if you’re far from help.

✘ Reduced Vehicle Handling Steering and emergency braking are not as effective compared to a full set of standard tyres.

✘ Incompatibility Sometimes, the original flat tyre won’t fit in the space saver’s location, taking up boot or cabin space.

✘ No Tyre Rotation Benefits Unlike full-size spares, space savers can’t be used in rotation cycles to prolong tyre life.

What If You Don’t Have a Spare at All?

More cars today are omitting spares altogether in favour of run-flats or repair kits. If your vehicle doesn’t come with a spare and you're planning a long-distance trip, consider purchasing:

• A temporary spare wheel
• A portable tyre repair kit
• An emergency puncture sealant

And remember: check your spare’s tyre pressure monthly—they lose air over time just like your regular tyres.

🔧 “A flat spare is as useful as an ashtray on a motorbike,” as the saying goes!

What’s Right for You?

Choosing between a space saver and a full-size spare depends on:

• Your driving habits
• Boot space availability
• Vehicle design
• Personal preference and peace of mind

Some vehicles allow you to upgrade to a full-size spare, either at no extra cost or as an option. Be sure to check with your Tynan Motors sales consultant when choosing your next vehicle.

Ensure you search the Tynan stock through our link here.

Credit: MyNRMA.com.au