Imagine the frustration of loading up the car with presents, only to face a flat tire on the way to grandma's house. And then, to add to the trouble, discovering that the spare tire, which was supposed to be in the trunk, is missing. This is a scenario that is becoming more common among drivers, and in some cases, it can pose significant risks.

Be Prepared for the Worst with a Spare Tire

College Student's Harrowing Experience

College student Courtney McKeown recently found herself in a dire situation when she had a flat tire. She called AAA, expecting the driver to simply swap out the spare tire. "We thought it would be in there," she said. "But when we opened it up, we realized there wasn't a spare tire." Her Jeep didn't even have a temporary "donut" tire; instead, it only came with a small air pump. "This is what you get as an alternative to a spare tire," her father, Chris McKeown, explained. "You get this pump for inflating the tire and this can of Fix-a-Flat." However, her father pointed out that the pump wouldn't have worked in their case because the hole was in the sidewall. So, Courtney had to wait in the dark for a tow truck to arrive.This incident highlights the growing problem of cars "missing" spare tires. Consumer Reports has found that since 2020, only 10 percent of cars are equipped with a full-sized spare, and just under 50 percent come with a space-saver or "donut" tire. Automotive technician Michael Crossen from Consumer Reports says that automakers are ditching spare tires to cut production costs and reduce vehicle weight. But he cautions that "donuts" are only a temporary solution and that you shouldn't drive on them for more than 50 miles.

What to Keep in Your Vehicle for a Flat

Crossen suggests stocking the following basics in your vehicle:- Hazard triangles or road flares to alert other drivers in case of an emergency.- A working flashlight (make sure to check the batteries periodically) to provide visibility in the dark.- Rags or gloves for changing a tire to protect your hands.- A phone number for roadside assistance in case you need it.Chris McKeown, referring to his daughter's Jeep with the empty wheel well, said, "I think a lot of people don't realize this." Now, he plans to buy his daughter a donut tire, which typically costs around $100. He believes it's money well spent as it ensures safety in the event of a flat and saves you from potential waste of time and money.In conclusion, being prepared for a flat tire is crucial. Know what you have in your vehicle and be familiar with it. Don't wait until you're stranded on the side of the road in the dark to realize you don't have the necessary tools or a spare tire. By taking these precautions, you can avoid unnecessary stress and ensure your safety on the road.