When you lease a new car, understanding what’s included can save you from roadside surprises. A common question for those opting for a lease is whether the vehicle comes equipped with the necessary tools to handle a flat tire. Knowing the answer to “Do Leased Cars Include Tools To Change Tire” is crucial for your preparedness and safety on the road.
It’s increasingly common for new cars to omit the traditional spare tire and accompanying tools. Consumer Reports’ testing since 2020 indicates a trend where only about 10% of new vehicles come with a full-sized spare tire. Just under half include a temporary spare, while a significant portion are equipped with just a sealant kit or run-flat tires – or even nothing at all for tire emergencies. This means a considerable number of new cars, potentially including leased vehicles, might not have a spare tire. In fact, approximately 40% of new cars today are without a spare tire, relying instead on sealant kits and compressors for minor tire punctures.
The reason behind this shift is largely due to fuel efficiency standards. Automakers face regulatory pressure to improve gas mileage. Eliminating the weight of a spare tire, wheel, and jack—typically around 50 to 60 pounds—helps in achieving slightly better fuel economy. This also translates to cost savings for manufacturers as they avoid the expense of providing these components. However, it’s important to note that a tire sealant kit is only effective for small punctures in the tread area. It won’t be of use if you experience a sidewall puncture or more significant tire damage.
For lessees, this trend means it’s essential to verify if your leased car includes tire changing tools. Many cars, even without a factory-installed spare, have the physical space to accommodate a space-saver spare tire. If your leased vehicle doesn’t come with a spare, consider looking into purchasing a spare tire kit. These kits usually contain a spare tire, jack, and lug wrench, and are available starting from around $150.
Before finalizing your lease and driving off the lot, take a moment to understand what tire emergency equipment is provided with your car. As Ryan Pszczolkowski, Consumer Reports’ tire program overseer, advises, “Know how your car is equipped before you take delivery. Don’t assume the car you’re about to buy has a spare tire.” Checking for a spare tire and tools in the showroom is the ideal time. This knowledge isn’t just for preparedness; it can also serve as a point of negotiation during the leasing process. Discovering you lack a spare tire on the side of the road after a flat is definitely not the time to find out. Always ensure you are aware of your leased car’s tire repair capabilities to avoid unexpected inconveniences.
