[DML] Compact Spare Fix

My compact spare is dead. It won't hold any air at all--pump it up to 60psi
and it's totally flat in an hour. I figured I could just replace it, but
theguy at the tire shop said they usually replace the WHOLE thing (wheel
and tire) on compact spares. Is this BS?

Has anyone had a similar experience? Thanks!

--Jonathan #000697

I had the same problem. If you fill your spare with air and submerge it in water you'll see it leak all around the bead. This is because our spares are aluminum and they have become oxidized all around the sealing part of the rim. Take yourtire to a local tire shop and have them dismount it for you and take it home. You will see all the oxidation on the inside of the rim once the tires off.
Then take a good scotch brite pad and run it around both sides of the bead until it becomes smooth again. Your hands might get quite a work out but its been a year now and my spare is still holding up.
Hope this helps.