Spare Tires

What Types of Spare Tires Can You Choose From?

JEGS carries four main types of spare tires, so you can match the spare to your vehicle and how far you need to drive. Each type trades off size, weight, and how long it's rated for temporary use.

• Compact (donut) spares: Small, lightweight temporary tires that save trunk space and get you to a repair shop.
• Full-size spares: Match your regular tire size for longer, safer emergency driving.
• Space-saver spares: Narrow steel-rim spares, often inflated near 60 PSI, built for short trips.
• Spare tire and wheel assemblies: Pre-mounted tire-and-rim combos that install fast when you're stuck.

Compact and space-saver spares suit daily drivers who want to reclaim cargo room. Full-size spares fit trucks, SUVs, and off-road builds that travel farther from help.

Ready to shop? Browse the full tire selection by rim diameter and fitment, or explore the complete wheels and tires lineup.

Should You Choose a Compact or Full-Size Spare Tire?

Choose a full-size spare if you drive long distances, tow, or want to keep driving normally after a flat. Choose a compact or donut spare when you want to save space and weight. A full-size spare matches your existing tire, so handling and braking stay consistent.

A compact spare is lighter and easier to store, but you're limited to about 50 mph and roughly 50 to 70 miles of travel. If you're upgrading tires across the board, read our tire buying guide. It covers the sizing and load ratings that also apply to a full-size spare, and it helps you pick a spare that keeps handling and braking consistent with your other tires.

What Spare Tire Mounting Hardware and Storage Accessories Do You Need?

Beyond the tire itself, you need hardware to secure the spare and accessories to protect it. JEGS carries the mounting and storage parts that keep a spare in place and ready to use. Matching the right hardware to your setup prevents rattles and keeps the spare secure over rough roads.

• Hold-down bolts and brackets: Secure the spare in the trunk or bed so it doesn't shift.
• Hook supports and carriers: Mount full-size spares to a tailgate, bumper, or frame.
• Lock covers and hardware: Help deter theft of externally mounted spares.
• Tire covers: Shield rear-mounted spares from sun, dirt, and UV damage.

You'll find spare tire covers under tire accessories, plus mounting hardware from brands like OER, Dorman Products, and Mopar Accessories, sized for common tire diameters.

How Do You Choose the Right Spare Tire for Your Vehicle?

Start with your vehicle's original tire size and wheel bolt pattern, then match the spare's rim diameter and fitment to it. A spare has to clear your brakes and mount to your hubs, so confirm bolt pattern and diameter before you buy. Pairing the right lug nuts and wheel studs keeps the spare torqued correctly once it's on the hub.

For space-saver spares, check the rim diameter (many are 15-inch steel) and the maximum rated speed printed on the tire. These spares usually need higher pressure, often around 60 PSI, so set it before you rely on the tire. If you'd rather match a spare to a fresh set, browse replacement wheels in the size your build needs, and see how long tires last to plan replacements. Once you've confirmed the fit, you're ready to add the right spare to your cart.