Are you wondering if Tesla vehicles come with spare tires? It’s a common question among Tesla owners and those considering purchasing an electric vehicle, and for a good reason!
Flat tires can happen to anyone, and it’s important to know what your options are if it does happen to you.
In this blog post, we’ll explore whether Tesla vehicles come with spare tires, the pros and cons of carrying a spare tire, and whether you actually need one in your Tesla.
So let’s get started!
Contents
Do Teslas Have Spare Tires?
None of Tesla’s current cars, including the Model 3, Model Y, and Model S, come with a spare tire as standard.
Instead, they have a tire repair kit that includes a can of tire inflator and a compressor. This kit is designed to allow drivers to quickly and easily repair a flat tire on the side of the road.
Why Tesla Opts Out of Providing Spare Tires
While most cars come with a spare tire, Tesla has taken a different approach.
1. Weight
One of the main reasons why Tesla does not provide a spare tire is to save weight. Spare tires can weigh anywhere from 30 to 50 pounds, which can add unnecessary weight to the vehicle.
Tesla is all about efficiency, and every extra pound of weight can have an impact on the car’s performance and range.
2. Space
Another reason why Tesla does not provide a spare tire is to save space.
Tesla’s battery pack takes up a significant amount of space, and the company wants to maximize the available space in the trunk.
By not providing a spare tire, Tesla can use that space for other things, such as additional cargo space or a larger battery pack.
3. Performance
In addition to saving weight and space, Tesla has also opted out of providing spare tires to improve performance.
The company’s vehicles are known for their speed and acceleration, and every extra pound of weight can impact the car’s performance.
By not providing a spare tire, Tesla can improve the car’s handling and acceleration.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has also stated that including a spare tire would go against the company’s mission to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable transportation.
Tesla’s Approach to Tire-Related Issues
While not having a spare tire may seem like a disadvantage, Tesla has taken steps to ensure that its drivers are not left stranded in the event of a flat tire.
Firstly, Tesla provides free roadside assistance to its drivers. This means that if you experience a flat tire or blowout while driving, you can call Tesla’s 24/7 roadside assistance service, and they will send a technician to your location to assist you.
In many cases, the technician can fix the issue on the spot by repairing the tire or replacing it with a new one, allowing you to get back on the road quickly and safely.
This service is available to all Tesla drivers, regardless of whether their vehicle is still under warranty or not.
In addition to roadside assistance, Tesla also provides a tire repair kit with every vehicle. This kit includes a sealant and an air compressor, which can be used to temporarily repair a flat tire.
This can be a lifesaver in situations where you are unable to get immediate assistance from a technician.
If the tire damage is too severe to be repaired with the kit, Tesla also offers tire replacement services. You can either have the tire replaced at a Tesla Service Center or have a mobile technician come to your location to replace the tire on-site.
The cost of the replacement depends on the type of tire and the extent of the damage.
Overall, while Tesla vehicles do not come with spare tires, the company has taken a comprehensive approach to tire-related issues.
Are Electric Vehicles Killing Spare Tires?
As electric vehicles become more popular, you may have noticed that some models, like Teslas, don’t come with a spare tire. In fact, many new cars are being sold without them. But why is this happening? Are electric vehicles to blame?
The answer is no, electric vehicles are not killing spare tires. The trend of removing spare tires from cars actually started before the rise of electric vehicles.
Car manufacturers have been removing full-sized spares from sedans and smaller SUVs for some time now. In 2018, Consumer Reports reported that 60% of new cars sold in the US came without a spare tire.
There are a few reasons for this trend.
- Removing the spare tire allows car manufacturers to save weight and improve fuel efficiency.
- It frees up more space in the car for other features or cargo.
- Many drivers simply don’t use their spare tire and would rather have more storage space instead.
But what about the safety concerns of not having a spare tire?
Most electric vehicles come equipped with a tire repair kit that includes sealant and an air compressor. This kit can be used to temporarily fix a flat tire and get you to a repair shop.
Some EV brands like Tesla also offer a free 24/7 roadside assistance to help repair or replace tires.
Additionally, some electric vehicle owners have opted to purchase a spare tire kit that fits in the trunk of their car.
Overall, while it may be inconvenient to not have a spare tire, it’s not necessarily a safety issue.
As long as you have a tire repair kit and a plan in case of a flat tire, you should be able to safely navigate the roads in your electric vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a Tesla tire replacement?
The cost of a Tesla tire replacement can vary depending on the model of the car and the type of tire needed. On average, Tesla tire replacements can cost anywhere from $150 to $600 per tire. This cost can be higher for larger or more specialized tires, such as those used on the Model X or Model S. Additionally, the cost of labor for installation can also vary, depending on the dealership or service center used. It's important to note that Tesla recommends using their authorized service centers for tire replacements and other maintenance, as using non-approved services can void the vehicle's warranty.
Can Tesla spare tires fit into the frunk?
It depends on the size of the spare tire. The frunk (front trunk) of a Tesla is designed to accommodate smaller items, such as a carry-on bag or a backpack. While some smaller spare tires may fit in the frunk, larger spare tires are unlikely to fit. If you're considering carrying a spare tire in your Tesla, it's important to measure the size of the tire and the dimensions of the frunk to ensure it will fit before attempting to store it in the vehicle.
What can I do if I have a spare tire and there's no network?
If you have a flat tire and your Tesla's network is out of service, try to use the tire repair kit. The kit includes a sealant and an air compressor that can be used to inflate the tire. Follow the instructions in the kit carefully to ensure a proper repair. If you have a spare tire, you can replace the flat tire with the spare. If you are unable to repair or replace the flat tire on your own, seek help from other drivers.