Most of us grow up assuming one thing about cars: if you get a flat tire, there’s a spare in the trunk. Simple, right?

Not anymore.

More and more new vehicles — even brand-new models — are being sold without a spare tire. Instead, drivers may find a tire inflator kit, sealant, or sometimes nothing at all. It’s something many people don’t discover until they’re already stuck on the side of the road.

Why Are Spare Tires Disappearing?

Car manufacturers are removing spare tires for a few reasons:

  • Weight reduction to improve fuel efficiency

  • Lower production costs

  • More trunk space

While those changes benefit manufacturers, they don’t always help drivers when a tire goes flat unexpectedly.

The Problem With Fix-A-Flat Kits

Many cars now come with tire sealant kits instead of spares. These can work for small punctures, but:

  • They won’t fix sidewall damage

  • They don’t help with blowouts

  • They often make tires unrepairable afterward

In cold weather or rural areas, relying on a sealant can leave you stranded.

What You Should Do Today

Take five minutes to check your vehicle:

  • Look under the trunk floor

  • Read your owner’s manual

  • See if you have a spare, donut, or only a repair kit

If your vehicle doesn’t have a spare, consider:

  • Purchasing a compact spare

  • Carrying a roadside assistance membership

  • Keeping emergency supplies in your car

Bottom Line

A flat tire is stressful enough. Finding out you don’t have a spare makes it worse.

Knowing what your vehicle does — or doesn’t — come with can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration when you need help the most.