Tire problems are quite common on the road, and to be ready for them, you need a spare tire. How long can you drive on a spare tire? This is a good question that looks at the use of the donut tire.
This tire type works well as a temporary replacement, as it is light and small. As such, it does not occupy much space and won’t affect the vehicle’s weight. To answer the main question, we will look at the recommended distance for using the spare wheel.
Understanding Spare Tires
Spare tires, often referred to as “donut” tires due to their compact size, are designed as temporary replacements for flat tires. They are not meant for extended use or high speeds.
Spare tires typically have a lower load capacity and speed rating compared to your regular tires. This means they can handle less weight and are not designed to be driven at high speeds for extended periods.
Distance on Spare Tire by Type
#1. Full-Size Spare Tire.
Many cars were built to hold a full-size spare in the tire well. If you have a larger vehicle, such as a truck or SUV, this is likely what you will find with your vehicle.
Of course, not everyone is happy with the extra space and weight this requires, but the full-size spare drives just like your normal tire, as long as you take care of it.
The benefit to this is that you can use the spare as a regular tire and purchase a new spare if that’s easier.
All the tire shop will need to do is put your spare on the original rim and check the air pressure. It’s one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to deal with a flat tire.
On the flip side, if you haven’t used the spare in a long time, it could be a different tire from the other three on your vehicle. In some cases, this difference can cause some drivability issues. If you can’t get a perfect match, it’s often best to purchase a new tire.
#2. Space-Saver/Donut Spare Tire.
To save space, manufacturers started including a smaller spare, known as the donut. Not only does this tire need less room on the vehicle, but it’s also lightweight. These smaller tires were not built to last, but merely to get you to a repair shop.
The owner’s manual is going to offer the best recommendation for driving speed and the time that you can spend on this tire. However, it’s normally recommended that you find a shop within 70 miles and you don’t exceed 50 mph on a donut.
If you examine the tread of the compact tire, you will quickly see why you shouldn’t be relying on it. There is often little or no tread, making the tire more susceptible to blowouts and damage from road debris.
The spare tire is also thinner than your normal tires. Therefore, you may notice some handling issues, especially if the tire is put on one of the front wheels that are responsible for steering.
#3. Run-Flat Tire.
The run-flat tire has grown in popularity, because manufacturers are figuring out they have a lower maintenance cost than the traditional tire.
You might have run-flat tires on your MINI or BMW vehicle in place of traditional tires. While these tires are meant to be tough, they aren’t going to last forever.
Run-flat tires were specifically built to handle the majority of road hazards, standing up to punctures exceptionally well.
This tire isn’t going to blow out or go flat like the traditional tire. Instead, it continues to drive for about 50 miles after the puncture occurs. On the downside, these tires do cost more to replace, so you are paying for the feature when you have to buy new tires.
How Long Should You Drive On A Spare Tire?
As previously mentioned, the spare tire has a smaller frame and weight than the standard tire. You should use it for a short time before getting a worthy replacement. It is advisable to use it for not more than 70 miles.
This is enough distance for you to get help and arrange for another wheel. If you keep up with these distance limits, you also preserve the life of the spare wheel. It will come to your aid in the future when you encounter a similar problem.
How fast can you really go on a spare tire? You should also look at how to drive on a spare tire for your convenience on the road. For stability purposes, do not go past 50 miles per hour on the donut wheel.
The logic behind the limited time of use of this spare part lies in its structure. The spare tire does not have well-formed treads, similar to that of the standard tire.
This presents a slipping risk or poor handling, especially on rough roads. The donut wheel is prone to projectiles on the surface, like nails, which may puncture it.
Moreover, the tires’ small size, compared to the other three, means it needs more revolutions to keep up with them. You will often notice that the tire safety systems are disabled until you fix a regular tire.
What happens if you drive on a spare tire for too long? If you overuse the spare tire, you may damage other car systems, like the transmission and car suspension.
In severe cases, you can end up wearing the spare part, which can leave you stranded or with more problems to fix.
Always ensure that the spare tire has enough pressure to hold you through your drive.
Can You Drive on a Flat Tire?
No. You should not drive on a flat tire. Doing so can be extremely dangerous for several reasons.
Driving on a flat tire is highly dangerous and can lead to extensive damage to both your vehicle and the tire.
A flat tire occurs when the air pressure is significantly reduced or lost, making it unable to support the vehicle’s weight.
This situation affects your vehicle’s performance and safety, and it’s essential to understand the risks and consequences of driving on a flat tire.
#1. Immediate Risks.
A flat tire drastically impacts your vehicle’s handling and stability. The tire cannot absorb road shocks without air pressure, leading to poor control and difficulty steering.
This makes it challenging to maneuver the vehicle, particularly at higher speeds, increasing the risk of accidents.
Additionally, the flat tire significantly increases your stopping distance. When you need to stop suddenly, the vehicle will take longer to halt, which can be particularly hazardous in emergencies where quick responses are crucial.
#2. Potential Damage to the Tire and Wheel.
Driving on a flat tire can cause severe damage to both the tire and the wheel. The tire’s sidewalls, which are not designed to support the vehicle’s weight without air, can become damaged or deformed.
This damage often makes the tire irreparable, necessitating a complete replacement. Moreover, driving on a flat tire can also harm the wheel rim.
The lack of proper cushioning from the tire can lead to rim bending or cracking, resulting in costly repairs or even needing a full-wheel replacement. This damage adds to the financial burden and inconvenience of dealing with a flat tire.
#3. Manufacturer Recommendations.
Vehicle manufacturers generally advise against driving on a flat tire. Most recommend stopping as soon as you realize the tire is flat.
Continuing to drive can increase the damage to the tire and wheel, leading to more expensive repairs.
Instead, it’s best to pull over safely, change the tire yourself, or call roadside assistance. Following these recommendations helps minimize damage and ensures your safety on the road.
How to Drive Safely on a Spare Tire
Regardless of whether your spare is a donut or a full-size spare, you’ll want to be careful while driving on it. To drive safely on your spare tire, follow these best practices:
Check your spare tire’s pressure regularly when it isn’t in use
Spare tires often have different inflation pressure needs than your regular tires, so it’s wise to check them for proper inflation. Plus, a spare tire isn’t much help if it has low pressure.
Give yourself extra space and time to brake
Using a spare tire can cause your vehicle’s anti-lock brake system (ABS) light to turn on, or for your ABS to not function properly.
Additionally, a donut spare can lead to inaccuracies in some vehicles’ speedometers. Braking early and with extra space between you and other vehicles can ensure you’re not in for surprise’s.
Be extra careful when driving in inclement weather
Spare tires don’t have advanced treads, so they aren’t able to provide the traction your regular tires would. Spares are therefore more susceptible to slipping or hydroplaning (sliding across the surface of puddles).
Replace your spare when necessary
Replacement will depend on the type of spare you have; check your vehicle’s owner manual, or inspect the spare for more information on how frequently you should replace it. Many spare tires have a lifetime of about eight years.
Maintenance Tips for Spare Tires
Proper upkeep of your spare tire is super important. You don’t want to discover it’s flat or damaged when you need it most! A little attention now can save you a headache later. Let’s get into some simple things you can do to keep your spare in tip-top shape.
Regular Inspections
Give your spare a good once-over every so often. I usually check mine when I’m doing my regular car maintenance, like checking the oil or tire pressure on my main tires. Look for any signs of wear and tear, like cracks in the sidewall, bulges, or embedded objects.
Also, check the tread depth if it’s a full-size spare. If you see anything that looks off, it’s time to get it checked out by a professional. It’s also a good idea to check the tire pressure regularly when it isn’t in use.
Proper Storage Techniques
How you store your spare can really affect its lifespan. Ideally, you want to keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If it’s stored under your car, like on some trucks and SUVs, make sure the area is clean and free of debris.
- Keep the area clean.
- Protect from direct sunlight if possible.
- Avoid placing heavy objects on top of it (especially for full-size spares).
Inflation Checks
This is probably the most important thing you can do. Always maintain the recommended tire pressure for your spare. Check your owner’s manual or the sticker on the tire itself for the correct PSI.
I like to use a reliable tire pressure gauge to make sure it’s accurate. Underinflated tires can be dangerous, and overinflated tires can affect handling.
Make it a habit to check the pressure every month or so, just like you do with your regular tires. For compact and mid-size cars, a compact donut tire is often the go-to solution.
Here’s a quick guide to recommended tire pressure:
| Tire Type | Recommended PSI | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Full-Size Spare | Per Manufacturer | Monthly |
| Compact Spare | Per Manufacturer | Monthly |
| Run-Flat Tire | Per Manufacturer | Monthly |
How to Change to a Spare Tire
Okay, so you’ve got a flat. Don’t panic! Changing a tire might seem daunting, but with a little know-how, you can get back on the road. Here’s a breakdown of the process.
#1. Finding a Safe Location.
First things first: safety. Pull over as far away from traffic as possible. A level surface is ideal to prevent the car from rolling.
Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. Seriously, this is the most important step. Don’t risk getting hit by another car just to save a few minutes.
#2. Using the Right Tools.
Make sure you have everything you need before you start. This usually includes:
- A spare tire (obviously!).
- A jack.
- A lug wrench.
- Your car’s owner’s manual (to locate jack points).
- Gloves (optional, but recommended – your hands will thank you).
#3. Securing the Spare Tire.
Once you’ve got the spare on, don’t just assume it’s good to go. Here’s what you need to do:
- Lower the vehicle until the tire is just touching the ground.
- Tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern (opposite nuts) to ensure even pressure. Don’t overtighten them yet.
- Lower the vehicle completely.
- Give the lug nuts one last, firm tightening. You want them snug, but not so tight that you can’t remove them later.
- Double-check the tire pressure of the spare. If it’s low, inflate it to the recommended pressure as soon as possible.
Remember, a spare tire is a temporary solution. Get your flat tire repaired or replaced by a professional as soon as you can.
FAQs.
Q: How Many Days Can You Drive On A Spare Tire?
A spare tire can have your back for a considerable time as long as you do not use it past 70 miles at a time. It has a diminutive frame, enough to offer support for a short distance.
If used sparingly and properly maintained, a donut wheel can serve you up to seven years.
Q: Is It Safe To Drive On The Highway With A Spare Tire?
When using a spare tire, there are figures to keep in mind for a smooth experience. For instance, when driving on highways, you should maintain a maximum speed limit of 50 miles per hour.
Additionally, you should not go past 70 miles on the wheels. In a search on how long can you drive on a spare tire Reddit reviews you see it is safe to keep the distance at 50 miles.
Q: How Long Does A Donut Tire Last?
A donut tire is a temporary fix for a bad tire that will keep you on the road for a considerable time before you get a replacement. It is quite small in size, intended to take minimal space in the car, and have less impact on vehicular weight.
Like a regular tire, the donut wheel can last you up to seven years if correctly maintained. Check on its pressure to ensure that it is in proper shape before using it.
Q: What Happens If You Drive On Spare Wheels For Too Long?
It would be best not to drive on spare wheels for too long, as it might bring up several issues. Some of the problems you may encounter are a rough driving experience, with difficulty in braking and cornering.
Additionally, prolonged use of the spare wheel is damage to the suspension and transmission systems.
This extra wheel has a small build; hence, it cannot withstand tough driving conditions.
Q: What Is The Difference Between A Spare Tire And A Donut?
A donut is a spare tire that has a small frame intended for space economy. There is also the standard spare wheel, which has a regular shape.
The main difference is the structure, with the donut being smaller and can serve you for shorter distances. A standard-sized spare wheel will support you for a long time until it gets damaged.
Q: How Much Does A Spare Tire Cost?
As a car enthusiast, it is prudent to know about a spare tire cost. The price ranges between $30 and $50, though some may go up to $200, depending on the make and manufacturer. You should always have one in your trunk for a rainy day.
Q: When Should I Replace My Spare Tire?
Your spare tire needs a change after a maximum of 70-miles on the road. Do not exceed this value, as you can cause secondary damage to other parts. You need to get a new spare tire after 7-8 years of service. Likewise, replace it if there are visible signs of tire damage.
Final Word
A spare tire is a must-have utility that comes to your aid in case you get a flat tire. A thing to know is that there are two types of spare wheels. One is the same size as the other tires and is a long-term replacement.
The other is the donut wheel, which has a small build, making it economical on the space and weight of the vehicle.
In this piece, we take a deep dive into the topic of spare wheels, concentrating mostly on the period of use. As severally hinted, 50 to 70 miles are the driving limits for a donut wheel. Also, do not exceed a speed limit of 50 miles per hour to get the best out of it.