A recent survey of over 10,000 AA members has confirmed that drivers strongly prefer traditional or spacesaver spare wheels over the tyre sealant and puncture repair kits commonly found on new cars.
With UK roads being known for potholes and damage, 82% of AA members are in favor of carrying a spare wheel, as pothole damage is projected to cost drivers an astonishing £500 million in 2023, with replacement tires being a significant expense.
The AA acknowledges that drivers of newer models may assume they have a spare wheel, but this is often not the case. In fact, the report found that twenty percent of younger drivers do not even consider whether a car they are purchasing has a spare wheel.
In 2023, the AA responded to over half of the car calls it received from motorists with punctures and no spare wheel. While patrols can provide temporary repairs, in many cases, the only options are to hire a mobile tire fitter or make an immediate trip to a garage to use the patrol’s temporary “multi-fit” spare.
The AA is advocating for increased awareness around the importance of fitting a spare wheel, with more than a third of surveyed drivers unsure about using a tire inflation kit, but half express willingness to pay for a spare wheel.
AA patrol of the year, Chris Wood, notes that the absence of a spare wheel has substantially increased the time it takes to resolve puncture issues for patrols. Owners with spare wheels should ensure their functionality, and those without should consider acquiring one, according to the AA.