Beware! Not Bringing a Spare Tire, a Prison Cell Awaits

Every driver, especially car drivers, should not underestimate small things regarding regulations in driving. One of them is carrying a spare tire. Although this component is not needed at all times, a spare tire must always be carried wherever you go/ be in the car. Its function is to be used when the car is in an emergency situation, for example, when the car has a flat tire in the middle of the road or on a quiet road, making it difficult to find a tire repair shop.

With a spare tire, drivers can temporarily use the spare tire to look for a tire repair shop. Every time you buy a new car, a spare tire is practically included. The size and specifications of a good spare tire should match the other four tires in terms of size, thickness, condition, etc.

When using a spare tire, you also need to pay attention to the condition of the spare tire size in accordance with the condition of the four tires. This is to ensure that the car does not skid when using the spare tire and to reduce the risk of damage to the differential gears. If the spare tire is indeed very different in size from the tires being used, then do not force high speeds when using the spare tire.

It is important to remember that driving a car without carrying a spare tire is an act that violates driving regulations in Indonesia. This regulation is stated in Article 57 paragraph 3 of Law Number 22 of 2009 concerning Traffic and Road Transportation. Quoted from the Dpr.go.id website, this article states that a spare tire is mandatory equipment in the car. Its importance is even equivalent to seat belts, jacks, warning triangles, and first aid kits (P3K).

Even the driving regulation in article 278 explains that anyone driving a car without a spare tire and the mentioned equipment is committing a criminal act with a penalty of one month in prison or a fine of Rp250,000.

Although the location of the spare tire is usually hidden, never forget to check the condition of the tire periodically. Check the tire for cracks on the sidewalls and tread, or any damage to parts of the tire such as the valve. If the spare tire is hung under the car, also ensure that its condition is safe and that the holder or plate for the spare tire is strong and locked.

Meanwhile, you should also pay attention to the air pressure in the spare tire. In fact, the air pressure can decrease due to escaping through the tire's pores even when not in use. Therefore, when inflating the tires in use, take the time to check and inflate your spare tire as well. If necessary, add a little more air pressure than the standard used in your car.

Next, you should also pay attention to the age of the tires, including the spare tire. Usually, it is only about three years. To determine the age of the car tire, you can look at the numerical code on the tire's sidewall. For example, if the tire has the code 1203, it means the tire was produced in the 12th week of 2003, or around the end of March 2003. So the lifespan of that tire is until around 2006.

Finally, you should also frequently maintain it by applying tire polish, especially since the spare tire is rarely washed or cleaned. In fact, if not properly maintained, the tire will easily lose its elasticity and become cracked. By doing this, the spare tire will last longer.