Car Tyres
Non-standard spare wheels
Tyres on the same axle must be of the same nominal size and aspect ratio – you'll fail the MOT test if they're not.
The law makes an exception for temporary use spares (non-standard spare / skinny spare) which are being supplied as original equipment more often these days. Generally these will be smaller than the standard size car tyres.
The handbook and spare tyre itself will carry clear information about the operating restrictions – maximum speed and distance – which you must stick to for safety reasons. This means unlike a standard spare, that skinny spares must be considered an emergency, get-you-home solution only. The original car tyre should be repaired / replaced as soon as possible.
- If you're buying a new car check the specification to find out if a 'normal' or non-standard spare will be supplied.
- Some manufacturers give you the option to upgrade a skinny spare to a standard spare.
- Others don't supply a spare wheel at all as they fit run-flat tyres or supply an emergency sealant and inflator pack.