Brazilian Chamber Advances Bill to Ban Thin Spare Tires on New Vehicles

A bill (PL 1396/2026) introduced by Deputy Pastor Gil (PL‑MA) in Brazil's Chamber of Deputies seeks to prohibit the sale of new cars equipped with the temporary "thin" spare tire, known as the "estepe fino." The proposal mandates that passenger cars, SUVs, pickups and light commercial vehicles leave the factory with a spare wheel and tyre identical in dimensions, load capacity and speed index to the other wheels.

Proponents of the thin spare argue it reduces vehicle weight and frees trunk space, but the author claims it compromises stability, limiting safe speed to 80 km/h and affecting braking. If enacted, manufacturers, importers and dealers that do not comply could face fines proportional to the vehicle’s market value and be required to replace the thin spare with a full‑size one at no cost. The bill is in the early legislative stage, pending committee review before moving to the Senate.