You can typically drive on a temporary spare tire (donut) for about 50 to 70 miles, and it’s recommended to keep your speed under 50 mph. Full-size spares can be driven like a regular tire, but should still be replaced as soon as possible if it doesn’t match the others.
Experiencing a flat tire while driving can be a stressful situation, but many vehicles come equipped with a spare tire designed to get you back on the road temporarily. However, spare tires are not meant to be a permanent solution, and driving on them for extended periods can be dangerous.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about driving on a spare tire, including how long it’s safe to use one, different types of spare tires, and best practices for using them. We’ll also answer some of the most frequently asked questions regarding spare tires.
Contents
Types of Spare Tires
Before diving into how long you can drive on a spare, it’s important to understand that not all spare tires are the same. The type of spare tire you have determines how far and how fast you can drive on it.
1. Full-Size Spare
A full-size spare is the same size and type as the regular tires on your vehicle. It offers the same performance as your regular tires and doesn’t have the same speed or distance limitations as temporary spares. Many larger vehicles, like trucks and SUVs, come equipped with full-size spare tires.
Pros:
- No limitations: You can drive on a full-size spare just like your regular tire.
- No speed restrictions: A full-size spare allows for normal driving conditions without restrictions on speed or distance.
Cons:
- Storage: Full-size spares take up significant storage space in your vehicle.
- Cost: Replacing a full-size spare is more expensive than a temporary spare.
2. Donut Spare (Temporary Spare)
A donut spare, also known as a temporary spare, is a smaller, lighter, and narrower tire designed for temporary use. These are the most common type of spare tires found in passenger cars because they take up less space in the vehicle and are easier to handle.
Pros:
- Compact: Takes up less storage space.
- Lightweight: Easier to install due to its smaller size.
Cons:
- Limited distance: Typically, you can drive only 50 to 70 miles on a donut spare.
- Speed limitations: Most donut spares should not be driven over 50 mph.
- Reduced performance: A donut spare offers reduced traction, braking, and cornering ability compared to a regular tire.
3. Run-Flat Tire
Some vehicles come equipped with run-flat tires rather than traditional spares. Run-flat tires are designed to allow you to drive a short distance after losing air pressure due to a puncture or blowout.
Pros:
- No need for a spare: Eliminates the need to change a tire on the roadside.
- Drive after puncture: Allows you to drive 50 to 100 miles at reduced speeds after a puncture.
Cons:
- Cost: Run-flat tires are more expensive to replace than regular tires.
- Limited repair options: Not all punctures can be repaired on run-flat tires.
4. Space-Saver Spare
Space-saver spares are a type of temporary tire that is even smaller than a donut. These are designed strictly for emergency use and must be driven on with extreme caution.
Pros:
- Ultra-compact: Ideal for vehicles with limited trunk space.
Cons:
- Extremely limited distance and speed: Often restricted to 30 to 50 miles at speeds below 50 mph.
How Long Can You Drive on a Spare Tire?
Driving on a spare tire should only be a temporary solution. Here’s how long and far you can typically drive on different types of spare tires:
1. Full-Size Spare
A full-size spare can be driven as long as you need, just like any other regular tire. However, you should replace the spare with a new regular tire if it is not identical in brand, model, or wear to the other tires on your vehicle. Driving with mismatched tires for an extended period can affect your vehicle’s handling and stability, especially if it’s all-wheel drive.
2. Donut Spare (Temporary Spare)
Most temporary spares are designed to last for 50 to 70 miles at speeds under 50 mph. The purpose of a donut spare is to allow you to drive to the nearest tire repair shop or service station, not to serve as a long-term replacement. Prolonged driving on a temporary spare can lead to excessive wear on the tire, which could increase the risk of a blowout. Additionally, the reduced traction and braking capability could compromise your safety.
3. Run-Flat Tire
Run-flat tires allow you to continue driving after a puncture, but they are not designed for long distances or high speeds when deflated. Most run-flat tires are rated for 50 miles at speeds up to 50 mph after a loss of air pressure. However, this distance can vary based on the manufacturer and the specific model of the run-flat tire.
4. Space-Saver Spare
Space-saver spares should only be used in extreme emergencies and typically allow for 30 to 50 miles at speeds under 50 mph. These tires are designed to get you off the road and to the nearest repair shop but should not be relied on for extended driving.
Why Shouldn’t Drive Long Distances on a Spare Tire
While spare tires are useful in emergency situations, they are not designed for prolonged use. Here are some reasons why driving on a spare tire for an extended period is not advisable:
1. Reduced Performance
Spare tires, especially donut spares, offer limited traction, braking, and handling capabilities. The reduced contact patch of a temporary spare means your vehicle will not handle as well as it normally does, increasing the risk of accidents, especially in adverse weather conditions like rain or snow.
2. Increased Wear on Vehicle Components
Driving on a spare tire for too long can lead to uneven wear on other parts of your vehicle, such as the suspension, brakes, and transmission. This is especially true for vehicles with front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive, as the spare tire is often not an exact match for the regular tires.
3. Higher Risk of a Blowout
Temporary spares are thinner and less durable than regular tires, making them more susceptible to punctures or blowouts if driven for too long or at high speeds. Overheating is another risk, as the thinner tire may not dissipate heat as effectively.
4. Legal and Safety Concerns
Driving on a spare tire for an extended period can also pose legal issues. In some states or countries, there may be restrictions or laws about how far or how fast you can drive on a temporary spare tire. Additionally, insurance companies may not cover damages if you are involved in an accident while driving on an improper or damaged spare.
Best Practices for Driving on a Spare Tire
If you find yourself in a situation where you need to drive on a spare tire, follow these best practices to stay safe and avoid further damage to your vehicle:
1. Drive Slowly: Most spare tires, especially donut and space-saver spares, have a speed limit of 50 mph. Exceeding this speed can cause the tire to overheat or blow out. Always follow the speed recommendations provided in your vehicle’s manual or on the spare tire itself.
2. Limit the Distance: Avoid driving long distances on a spare tire. Most temporary spares are designed for a maximum distance of 50 to 70 miles, just enough to get you to a repair shop. Do not attempt long road trips or extended drives on a temporary spare.
3. Check Tire Pressure: Before installing a spare tire, check its tire pressure. Many spare tires are under-inflated, especially if they’ve been stored for an extended period. The correct pressure is typically printed on the sidewall of the spare tire or listed in the vehicle’s manual.
4. Get the Flat Repaired or Replaced ASAP: As soon as possible, take your vehicle to a professional to repair or replace the damaged tire. Driving on a spare for too long can damage other parts of your vehicle and increase your risk of an accident.
5. Monitor Vehicle Performance: While driving on a spare, pay attention to how your vehicle is handling. If you notice excessive vibration, pulling to one side, or difficulty braking, pull over and check the spare tire. These could be signs that the spare is not properly installed or is wearing out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some FAQs about driving with spare tire –
1. Can I drive on the highway with a spare tire?
You can drive on the highway with a spare tire, but you should follow the speed and distance limitations. For a donut spare, this usually means keeping your speed under 50 mph and limiting your driving distance to no more than 70 miles.
2. Do I need to replace my spare tire if I’ve used it?
If you’ve used your spare tire, especially a temporary or donut spare, you should have it inspected by a professional. Temporary spares are not meant to be reused multiple times and may need to be replaced if they show signs of wear.
3. Can I drive faster than 50 mph on a full-size spare tire?
Yes, if your spare is a full-size tire, you can drive at normal speeds, as long as the tire matches the specifications of your other tires. However, if the spare is not an exact match, you should still replace it as soon as possible to maintain proper vehicle handling.
4. How can I tell if my spare tire is too old to use?
Most spare tires have a limited lifespan, even if they haven’t been used. Check the sidewall of the tire for the date of manufacture. If the tire is more than 6 to 10 years old, it should be replaced, as rubber degrades over time, making the tire unsafe.
Conclusion
Driving on a spare tire is a temporary solution meant to get you safely to a repair shop, not a permanent fix. Whether you have a full-size spare or a temporary donut, knowing the limitations of your spare tire is crucial for maintaining your vehicle’s performance and safety. Always adhere to the recommended speed and distance limits, and have your flat tire repaired or replaced as soon as possible. By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure that you stay safe on the road, even in the event of a flat tire.