The Volkswagen ID.4 is a popular electric SUV that offers a smooth and efficient driving experience. While electric vehicles are known for their low maintenance, it is still important to know what to expect in terms of spare tire options for the VW ID.4.
No car yet is completely immune to tire trouble, and the VW ID.4 is no exception. That’s why it is crucial to understand your option and the process if you find yourself with tire trouble in the VW ID.4.
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Where’s my VW ID.4 Spare Tire?
First and foremost, it is essential to know that the VW ID.4 does not come with a spare tire as standard equipment. Instead, the vehicle is equipped with a tire repair kit (also known in the owner’s manual as the ‘breakdown set’), which can be used to repair a flat tire temporarily.
The repair kit includes a sealant and a compressor, which can be used to fill the tire and get you back on the road.
Spare tires have been phased out in favor of sealant and compressors, as they provide a more efficient solution in a tire emergency.
These compact options save space, are lighter in weight, and can be used quickly and safely compared to traditional tire replacement on the side of a busy highway.
Additionally, the widespread use of run-flat tires, which can be driven even when punctured, has further reduced the need for a spare tire.
What are my options if I want a spare tire?
If you want a backup plan for a flat tire, you can opt to buy a VW ID.4 spare tire specifically designed for your vehicle. The manual recommends having a full-sized spare tire handy, especially if you travel long distances or drive on challenging terrain.
However, it’s also crucial to familiarize yourself with the tire repair kit that comes with the vehicle, keeping it easily accessible in case of emergency. Regularly checking tire pressure and inspecting your tires for any signs of damage can help prevent a flat tire in the first place.
How do I use the VW ID.4 breakdown set?
If you find yourself with a flat tire, the VW ID.4 spare tire repair kit can be a temporary solution. According to the manual, specific steps should be taken when using the breakdown kit for sealing and inflating the tire.
It’s essential to follow the recommended steps to ensure the safety of everyone involved. Read the owner’s manual in full before doing this!
- Safety first:
- Park your vehicle on a firm, level surface away from moving traffic.
- Deactivate the drive system.
- Ask all passengers to leave the car and stand away from moving traffic.
- Switch on the hazard warning lights.
- Set up a warning triangle.
- Prepare:
- Check if the puncture can be repaired with the breakdown set.
- Remove any luggage from the luggage compartment.
- Sticker placement:
- Take the sticker from the breakdown set and place it on the dash panel within the driver’s field of vision.
- Sealing the tire:
- Unscrew the cap from the tire valve and use the valve core extractor to remove the valve core.
- Shake the tire filler bottle and screw the tire filler hose onto the bottle.
- Remove the plug from the hose and place it on the tire valve.
- Fill the tire with the contents of the bottle.
- Replace the valve core with the extractor.
- Inflating the tire:
- Screw the tire filler hose of the air compressor onto the tire valve.
- Insert the 12-volt plug into a vehicle socket and turn on the air compressor.
- Run the compressor until the tire pressure reaches 2.0 – 2.5 bar.
- If the pressure cannot be reached, unscrew the hose from the valve and drive the vehicle 10 meters.
- Reattach the hose and inflate it again. If the required pressure still cannot be reached, seek expert assistance.
- Disconnect the compressor and unscrew the hose from the valve. Drive the vehicle at a maximum of 80 km/h (50 mph) if the pressure is reached.
WARNING: Ignoring any items on this safety checklist can lead to accidents and severe injuries. Always consult the owner’s manual and observe general safety procedures.
VW ID.4 spare tire: conclusion
In conclusion, while the VW ID.4 is not equipped with a spare tire, it does come with a breakdown set that will get you out of most tire-related trouble. If you aren’t comfortable with this, or your journeys tend to put more wear on the tires, you could purchase a spare as an extra. Bear in mind that this will take up trunk space!
While this article provides general information, it is not a substitute for professional advice. You should always consult your owner’s manual, below, or a certified VW dealership for more information. You’ll find a PDF version of the VW ID.4 owner’s manual below.
FAQs
Does the VW ID.4 have a spare tire?
No, the Volkswagen ID.4 typically does not come equipped with a spare tire. Instead, it often includes a tire inflation kit or a sealant to address minor tire damage.
Why doesn’t the ID.4 have a spare tire?
Several modern vehicles, including electric and hybrid models like the ID.4, opt to omit a spare tire to reduce vehicle weight and improve fuel efficiency. Additionally, the space saved by not including a spare tire can be used for other purposes, such as accommodating the electric powertrain components or providing additional storage.
What do I need to know about driving on a spare tire?
When driving on a spare tire, there are several important considerations to keep in mind:
- Spare tires are typically smaller and not intended for long-term use. They are designed as temporary solutions to get you to a nearby service center.
- Spare tires have limited speed and mileage ratings, which should be clearly marked on the tire itself. Exceeding these limits can be unsafe.
- Handling characteristics may be different with a spare tire, so it’s advisable to drive more cautiously and avoid sudden maneuvers.
- You should aim to replace the spare tire with a full-size tire as soon as possible.
How long can you drive on a Volkswagen spare tire?
The length of time you can drive on a Volkswagen spare tire depends on various factors, including the type of spare tire, its speed and mileage ratings, and the condition of the tire. In general, most spare tires are intended for relatively short distances, typically up to 50 miles (80 kilometers) and at speeds of around 50 mph (80 km/h). However, it’s crucial to check the specific recommendations and limitations provided in your vehicle’s owner’s manual and on the spare tire itself. It’s strongly advised to replace the spare tire with a full-size tire as soon as possible to ensure your safety on the road.