Why a spare tire may not be in your new car

CLEVELAND - If you're buying a new car, chances are you haven't thought much about the tires. But Consumer Reports says that could come back to hurt you if you ever get a flat tire, especially now during pothole season.

Consumer Reports said drivers need to check to see if their vehicle - particularly new vehicles - have a standard spare and jack. Many auto manufacturers are no longer including them as carmakers look to optimize cargo space and reduce the weight of a car to improve fuel efficiency.

Instead of a spare and a jack, many new cars now come with just a small air compressor and a sealant kit to fix a flat tire.

But that may not always be enough said Jennifer Stockburger of Consumer Reports,“The problem is that these kits don't work if the damage to the tire is in the inside side wall area. In that case, you'd be stranded until someone could come help you.”

And that help will cost you. Without a spare, the only option is a tow which can cost a few hundred dollars.

What should you do as a driver?

Make sure you're prepared for a flat. Know if you have a spare and if not, who to call in an emergency.