Tow car 2012 tests and puncture kits

[otherclive]

I notice that in the PC /C&CC tow car tests the prelim information states that the car's provision for dealing with a puncture whilst towing is assessed. Yet the write ups of each vehicle did not mention what the puncture provision was and whether or not the manufacturer supported its use whilst towing. perhaps Mottie could give something on this Forum or in PC.

 

[NigelHutson]

If you look at the end of the article, there's a two page data section which I think gives you the information you're looking for.

 

[xtrailman]

Yes shows all the common tow cars , most now don't have a proper spare.

 

[otherclive]

Thanks but the data sheets don't indicate the manufactures position re the use of space saver or repair kits and on this forum there has been much uncertainty from members as to whether these are approved for towing. The PC tests don't say anything about this. The Owners Manual is the place one would expect to find this information. What do the manuals say for each group winner? For many cars now just buying a full size spare is not a practical option as there are no longer stowages provided. Carrying one in the car is not always an option given the load area is often fully utilised with van stuff. I suppose putting a full size car spare in the van is one option at the expense of making further inroads into current reducing payloads.

 

[NigelHutson]

Clive,
The last four columns relate to the puncture provision, and whilst it's perhaps not totally clear in the article, the data is taken from either the vehicles' handbooks, or where there is ambiguity, the Manufacturers are contacted for their direction. If there's a vehicle that you're particularly interested in, I'm sure if you contact the C&CC Technical Dept, they will assist you as they gather the data.
I hope that helps you.

 

[Raywood]

I have ordered a new Mazda which does not have a spare. The wheel well is there and the dealer agreed a discount on a spare. I have had two punctures with the current car which had a space saver and do not feel happy without a workable spare but didn't have to tow with it. I could rely on my beakdown cover but there is an excess if you have no spare and they would probably charge you list price if you needed a new tyre.

 

[otherclive]

Thanks for the reply Nigel. Not planning to change cars yet even though XC70 has a space saver!!!!! But it is okay to tow with it say Volvo.

 

[WatsonJohnG]

I have ordered a new Mazda which does not have a spare. The wheel well is there and the dealer agreed a discount on a spare. I have had two punctures with the current car which had a space saver and do not feel happy without a workable spare but didn't have to tow with it. I could rely on my beakdown cover but there is an excess if you have no spare and they would probably charge you list price if you needed a new tyre.

I bought a full size spare for the X Trail and also one for the 1st Kuga and its now transferred to the new Kuga
So far no punctures
Hope that it works for you too
The tyre snowsocks also did a good job of keeping the snow away

 

[otherclive]

Clive,
The last four columns relate to the puncture provision, and whilst it's perhaps not totally clear in the article, the data is taken from either the vehicles' handbooks, or where there is ambiguity, the Manufacturers are contacted for their direction. If there's a vehicle that you're particularly interested in, I'm sure if you contact the C&CC Technical Dept, they will assist you as they gather the data.
I hope that helps you.

Nigels reply addressed my concerns. However in the C&CC MAGAZINEAug 2012 there is a review of the Mazda CX5 by David Motton which says that the car was nearly a class winner, but Mazda say neither the space saver or puncture repair kit are suitable for towing. If this is correct it contradicts Nigel's statement. I find it puzzling that even with identical space saver or Continental repair kit some car makers are okay about their use for towing whilst others say they are not suitable for towing. Is it not time for the NCC and caravan industry to get together with the motor industry to address this issue. Just returned from northern Scotland where there was no phone coverage so without anyway of towing the van should a puncture occur I would have been stuck. Fortunately Volvo space saver is suitable for towing and I also carry a Continental Mobilty sealant kit. Given the cars tyres don't know where their load comes from, be it noseweight or internal load I have no qualms about using either. But it would be embarrassing to see the possibility of a Towcar of the Year whose maker had no provision to get you going in the event of a puncture to the car whilst towing!!!