Warning Signs the Spare Wheel is Failing
- Difficulty maintaining proper tire inflation
- Visible damage to the wheel, such as dents, cracks, or bends
- Unusual vibrations or noises coming from the wheel area while driving
- Tire wear that is uneven or excessive
How to Test if This Part is the Problem
- Visual Inspection: Carefully examine the spare wheel for any signs of damage.
- Inflation Check: Ensure the spare wheel holds air properly and maintains the correct pressure.
- Wheel Balance: Have the wheel balanced to check for any imbalances that could cause vibrations.
- Test Drive: Install the spare wheel and take a short test drive to see if the symptoms disappear. If they do, the original wheel is likely the problem.
Common Failure Causes for This Part
- Impact damage from potholes, curbs, or accidents
- Corrosion due to exposure to road salt and moisture
- Improper storage, leading to tire degradation
- Over-tightening of lug nuts, causing stress fractures