There is comfort knowing that the spare tire is there. AAA doesn't always get there as quickly as you want.

I knew I only had about 10 miles to travel with the spare, so i opted not to rotate and put it on the front.

No harm done.

The thing is......to know what your options are when you have a flat.

1 call Mazda Roadside
2 call AAA
3 call your Dad
4 use the fix-a-flat, knowing that you'll have to replace the tire.
5 use the spare tire so you won't have to replace the tire.

BTW, Mazda wanted $456 for the stock fix-a-flat and air compressor. My RX-8 didn't have one in the trunk, so I was going to get the stock until I found out the price....actually paid $20 at Discount Auto for a nice little kit.

Also, make sure you know where your lug key is so you take remove the flat. I use the McGaurd splinegaurd lugs so every lug is actually locked. a standard lug wrench won't work.