Yes, you can air a spare tire.
It's crucial to ensure your spare tire is properly inflated before you need it. Different types of spare tires require different inflation pressures. Here's a breakdown:
Types of Spare Tires and Inflation
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Full-Size Spare: These tires are the same size as your regular tires. You should inflate them to the same pressure as your other tires, which you can typically find on a sticker inside the driver's side doorjamb or in your vehicle's owner's manual.
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Temporary Spare Tire (T-Type): These are smaller and lighter than your regular tires and require a higher inflation pressure. T-type temporary spare tires require 60 psi (420 kPa).
Important Note: When adjusting the air pressure in a T-type spare tire, do so in small increments because the pressure changes rapidly due to the tire's smaller size. Avoid overinflating.
Here’s a table summarizing inflation information:
Tire Type Recommended Pressure Notes Full-Size Spare Same as regular tires (check vehicle sticker or manual) Pressure should be the same as your vehicle's placard recommendation. Temporary (T-Type) Spare 60 psi (420 kPa) Inflate in small increments; pressure changes rapidly. Do not overinflate.
How to Check and Inflate a Spare Tire
- Locate the Spare: Find your spare tire, which is usually located in the trunk, under the vehicle, or on the rear of some trucks and SUVs.
- Access the Valve Stem: Identify the valve stem on the tire.
- Use a Tire Pressure Gauge: Check the current pressure with a tire pressure gauge.
- Inflate as Needed: Inflate the tire using an air pump or compressor to the recommended pressure.
- Recheck Pressure: After inflating, use the gauge again to ensure the tire reaches the correct pressure.
- Inspect: Ensure there are no leaks around the valve stem and that the cap is secure.
Maintaining the correct inflation pressure in your spare tire is crucial for safety and optimal performance when needed. Always refer to the manufacturer's recommendations to ensure proper inflation.
