What is a space-saver tyre?

A space-saver is a compact temporary spare wheel and tyre designed to take up less boot space and weigh less than a full-size spare. It is intended to help you continue your journey far enough to arrange a proper tyre repair or replacement, not as a permanent substitute for the normal road wheel.

Check the restrictions on your own spare

Temporary spare wheels can have restrictions on speed, distance, tyre pressure and where they may be fitted on the vehicle. Follow the markings on the wheel/tyre and the vehicle handbook rather than assuming that one rule applies to every space saver.

• Check the permitted maximum speed shown on the spare.
• Check the specified inflation pressure before fitting it.
• Use the correct wheel bolts or nuts if the vehicle requires different hardware for the spare.
• Drive cautiously because braking, steering and grip can differ from the normal wheel and tyre.
• Replace the temporary spare with the correct road wheel as soon as practical.

Why is the pressure often higher?

A narrow temporary tyre may require substantially higher pressure than the vehicle’s normal road tyres. The correct figure should be marked on the tyre/wheel or stated in the vehicle handbook. Do not inflate a spare to a figure copied from another vehicle.

Before a long journey

Space savers can slowly lose pressure while sitting unused for years. Check the spare periodically so it is actually usable when needed. Also make sure the jack, wheel brace and any special wheel bolts or locking-wheel-nut key are present.

For more information see our tyre-pressure guide and tyre safety information.