Space saver tyres
Space saver tyres, as their name implies, are fitted to vehicles to save weight and space. Obviously their on road performance is not equal to full size tyres but they are not as dangerous as many people claim provided they are inflated to the correct pressure, usually 60 psi or 4.2 bar , and are used carefully at speeds not exceeding 80 kph. The exact air pressure required should be stated on both the tyres sidewall and on the rim.
But the big problem is that many workshops servicing vehicles and motorists never check spare tyre pressures and this causes some serious safety issues. Space saver tyres are generally perceived to be only marginally serviceable, so a flat or low air pressure tyre is going to be very unsafe to drive on with tricky and poor road handling and liable to fail suddenly. Another issue is the damaged caused to these tyres while they are being run flat or used with low tyre pressure causing overheating and damage to the tyres construction.
Ideally any space saver tyre that has been run seriously under-inflated should be replaced.
It’s all very well to mention simply replacing a space saver tyre, but where in fact can you buy such a rare item in New Zealand – & what would be the cost? My space saver T125/90 R16 is far too old for safe service but Beaurepaires say they can’t source a new one.
Hi Peter
you are correct in saying it is almost impossible to buy a new space saver tyre in New Zealand. This is one reason why many people replace their space saver with a second hand rim and tyre. n.b. check that a full size tyre will fit in your spare wheel carrier properly.
Or you can buy a second hand rim and tyre from a car wrecker though this can be dificult if you have a rare size.
Good Luck!
Need one
Hi Paul
sorry, we do not sell space saver tyres. The best way to get one is from an auto wrecking company specialising in your vehicle. A second had rim and tyre is the only cost effective solution. A new tyre/rim would almost certainly have to be imported for you at quite a high cost.
Mathew