Is the space saver tire functional?

[TheSecondChris]

Are these space saver tires still any good given their age?

If I get a flat, should I bother trying to use it or just try to call a tow truck?

[mytrplseven]

There's a procedure for inflating the space saver tire. I'd suggest inflating it per the owner's manual and then taking it to a tire store for inspection. The manual also details deflating and re-storing the wheel in the boot, assuming it's ok.

[FrenchToast]

I would say no. Rubber that has been in same position for 30+ years, just inflated/unfolded, then gets driven on? Doesn't sound like a great idea.

I think you can still get replacement collapsible spare tires, but they usually are more expensive than a new full size spare.

[project425]

Originally Posted by TheSecondChris

Are these space saver tires still any good given their age?

Great question. If you have any doubts regarding the safety of a tire, change it!
I've read replacement space savers are the makes:
Audi, Mercedes, Suzuki, VW- 5 X130 bolt pattern,center bore

[Spring44]

Originally Posted by TheSecondChris

Are these space saver tires still any good given their age?

If I get a flat, should I bother trying to use it or just try to call a tow truck?

I inflate mine periodically to check it and it still works fine. I air it up using my garage compressor and let it sit for a while and recheck the pressure. The 12v compressor in the car takes a lot longer to inflate it, but it will. The rubber in mine is still surprisingly soft and uncracked and I spray it generously with silicone spray before deflating it and replacing it in the hatch area.

If I had a flat locally or in a another town, then I'd call AAA rather than go to all of that trouble. However, if a flat left me stranded in the middle of nowhere, I wouldn't hesitate at all to use it to get back to town. Drive =/< 50 mph on it, it isn't a high speed tire ever.

[djnolan]

I would think the 12v compressor should be tested as well.

I bought a 12v compressor at Sears for a 944 that didn't come with one. I tried to use it to top off the regular tires and it emitted a puff of smoke, but no air...

[TheSecondChris]

Originally Posted by djnolan

I would think the 12v compressor should be tested as well.

I bought a 12v compressor at Sears for a 944 that didn't come with one. I tried to use it to top off the regular tires and it emitted a puff of smoke, but no air...

good point - the tire is not functional if you can't inflate

[TheSecondChris]

Originally Posted by Spring44

I inflate mine periodically to check it and it still works fine. I air it up using my garage compressor and let it sit for a while and recheck the pressure. The 12v compressor in the car takes a lot longer to inflate it, but it will. The rubber in mine is still surprisingly soft and uncracked and I spray it generously with silicone spray before deflating it and replacing it in the hatch area.

If I had a flat locally or in a another town, then I'd call AAA rather than go to all of that trouble. However, if a flat left me stranded in the middle of nowhere, I wouldn't hesitate at all to use it to get back to town. Drive =/< 50 mph on it, it isn't a high speed tire ever.

So, this is your original tire that is 36 years old? Good to know it's still in decent condition. I'll test mine and see how it looks. Thanks

[TibetanT]

I had a flat tire driving my 911SC about four (4) years ago. The Porsche spare in the car is the original spare tire. So, that makes the spare tire approximately 32 years old.

I inflated it and put it on the car and drove home at 30 mph!

That said, you must make sure you take good care of them so they can take care of you when you need them.
As, Spring44 said above, "spray with silicone spray" before putting it back, since it makes a big difference.

So, I guess the answer is: it depends.