When I purchased my Kia Niro last year the only thing that dismayed me was the lack of a spare tire. I realize it is standard operating procedure with new vehicles these days (I heard it was an effort by the manufacturers to reduce weigh to help them meet the higher fuel efficiency standards) but it bothered me.

As you know, I do a lot of driving and am prone to long, meandering road trips so I did not feel comfortable with the idea of being stranded in the middle of nowhere with a measly can of air. Especially since I prefer the road less traveled, which often means there’s no cell phone service (the modern day equivalent of up a creek without a paddle).

So, shortly after buying my car a friend helped me research and find a spare tire that would fit (the tiny donut available through the dealer wouldn’t have been compatible with my “sport” edition).

Of course, the larger tire wouldn’t fit in the pre-molded space in the back of the car but I didn’t let that stop me. I took everything out, did some creative cutting and rearranging to make it fit. It was a bit of a project and I know some people were frustrated by my determination to make it work.

Fast forward to this weekend. While driving through South Carolina on I-95 (on my way north to visit friends) I had my first dreaded blowout in this car. A can of air wouldn’t do me any good in that situation!

Thankfully, my spare tire enabled me to continue safely to my friend’s house (albeit at a bit slower speed). And even allowed me to get to Discount Tire this morning where I’m currently waiting for two new tires to be installed (I always buy at least in pairs but the other tires still have some life left).

Had I not been so insistent, my car would probably still be stranded along the interstate or I would’ve had a huge towing bill or a ruined weekend while trying to cart a tire back and forth. Instead, I enjoyed a lovely visit with my friend here in Raleigh and within the hour I will be on my way to see friends in Virginia.

The peace of mind that will travel with me? Priceless!