If you’ve bought a new car recently, you might have noticed something missing: the spare tire. It’s not an oversight; there’s a calculated truth behind why new cars often lack this once-essential item.

Automakers have ditched spare tires for several reasons. Fuel efficiency is at the top of the list. Spare tires add weight to the vehicle, and in today’s world, every pound counts. By removing the spare wheel, manufacturers shave off around 30-50 pounds, helping to boost fuel economy. It’s a small change that can make a big difference in meeting stringent fuel efficiency standards.

Another reason is space. Modern cars are crammed with technology and safety features, leaving less room for a bulky spare tire. Instead, manufacturers use that valuable space for more cargo room or advanced tech systems.

Cost-saving is also a factor. Eliminating the spare tire and the tools that go with it saves OEMs money. This keeps the overall cost of the vehicle down. Yep, this might strike you as terribly inconvenient for drivers. But this change reflects a shift toward prioritizing efficiency and modern flat repair methods over a hulky extra wheel.

Now, you won’t be left totally high and dry. Many new cars come with run-flat tires or tire repair kits. The kit can temporarily fix a flat without needing a full-sized spare. You can also order a fifth wheel with the tire mounted from the OEM or a tire company yourself and store it in your trunk.

For drivers, this means adapting to a new approach to flat tires. If you don’t want to pull a “Ben Affleck” and call for a ride and tow after you’re caught off guard by a lack of a spare, it’s worth learning how to use a tire repair kit. Though the lack of a spare might seem odd at first, it’s really no different than any other phased-out vehicle feature.