Bring back the full-size spare wheel

[Graham Wood]

Carbuyer.co.uk has done a survey on the modern innovations that most annoy motorists. Article below. What are your pet hates?

MOTORISTS have given an overwhelming thumbs down to ‘space saver’ spare wheels and puncture repair kits, new research by independent expert car buying guide Carbuyer.co.uk has revealed.

Introduced to save space and weight, the ‘space saver’ spare – or no spare wheel at all – tops the chart of drivers’ irritations about many features of the latest cars.

More than a thousand motorists were asked which modern car features annoy them most, with two out of three listing no full-size spare as their biggest gripe.

Ranking second in the list of annoyances was another feature aimed at improving fuel efficiency – the engine stop-start system.

Some features introduced for driver convenience also turn out to annoy a significant number of motorists. Automatic handbrakes came third on the list, followed by keyless entry, inaccurate satellite navigation systems and interior hazard warning sounds. 

Carbuyer editor-at-large, James Batchelor, said: “Modern cars bristle with innovations designed for efficiency and convenience, but our research proves the adage that you can’t please all of the people all of the time.

“The absence of a full-size spare appears to be overwhelmingly unpopular with drivers, doubtless because both alternative solutions are such inconvenient temporary solutions to a flat tyre. Removing the standard spare does allow for more storage space and helps to cut CO2 emissions by reducing weight, but these benefits don’t impress most motorists.

“Continuing your journey on a speed-limited wheel – or using a temporary repair kit – are deeply unpopular options for an overwhelming majority of drivers.” 

[Tony Jaskeran]

If I had to choose one item of the above it would be a spare, if you are on holiday it’s a real pain to use a space saver then find a garage somewhere remote for a new tyre. In the past I’ve bought a 2nd hand full size spare then put it back on eBay when the car is sold.

[Mick Sheppard]

It’s an interesting idea but when you have a car with different width wheels front and rear does this mean you need two spares?

Neither of my Maserati have had a spare. I have had punctures and used the compressor to inflate the tyres enough to be able to get to a tyre shop.I often run my Alfa Spider without the spare in it as there’s more room in the boot.  Its one of those things that when asked people moan about but the reality is that, these days, with good tyres punctures are few and far between.

 

[Tony Jaskeran]

With different widths you are stuck with the tyre weld, I agree it doesn’t suit every eventuality.  It must be a nightmare if you live somewhere remote, however I’m sure there will be some creative local solutions to get you going.

[Graham Wood]

I object to the foam spray kits. I only know of one person that dared to use it, and it was a waste of time!

At least a space saver would get you 50 miles down the road…

When I had my QPV it had no space saver, the space in the boot for it was carpet lined and was useful on long trips for the wife’s shoes…

I still can’t get used to stop/start systems – they make me nervous – always thinking of the additional wear on the starter motor. Probably had to change too many of them on cars owned in the 80s!

[profchristopher-green]

Historically i cant imagine going anywhere without a spare, but lets move forward and if you have ever used one of those foam kits then i doubt if you would still be a fan of the foam kit.

i then discovered a spray can sold in Halfords called Holts Tyreweld that does what it necessary without the potential mess associated with foam kits. You butythem in different sizes according to wheel rim diameter and they dont cost an arm and a leg. All I know is when used it worked and got me home and the tyre was permanent repair friendly after. Value for a tenner.

[Lee Moore]

I hate not having a spare, although not keen on the space saver it’s better than nothing – would prefer a proper wheel!

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