How Long Should You Drive On A Spare Tire

So, you've got a flat tire and you're riding on your spare. That's rarely a fun situation, but it happens. The big question now is: how long can you drive on that spare? The answer, unfortunately, isn't always straightforward. It depends on the type of spare you have.

Understanding Your Spare Tire: The Key to Safe Driving

The most important thing to remember is that your spare tire is almost certainly not intended for long-term use. It's a temporary solution designed to get you to a repair shop safely. Ignoring this advice could lead to further damage to your vehicle, or, much worse, an accident.

Full-Size Spare Tires: The Rare Exception

Let's start with the best-case scenario: a full-size spare. This is a spare tire that's the same size and type as your regular tires. It's relatively rare these days, especially on newer vehicles. If you're lucky enough to have one, it *still* requires caution. Even a full-size spare may have limitations.

How Long Can You Drive? Ideally, a full-size spare can be driven until you can get your original tire repaired or replaced. However, it's crucial to check the tire's condition and pressure. A full-size spare might have been sitting in your trunk for years, losing air pressure and potentially developing dry rot. If the spare tire is old or shows any signs of damage, it should be replaced regardless of whether it's been used. Also, even if it's in good condition, it's always best practice to have it inspected by a professional.

Practical Tip: Before relying on your full-size spare, check its age. Look for the DOT (Department of Transportation) code on the sidewall. The last four digits indicate the week and year the tire was manufactured. For example, "1223" means the tire was made in the 12th week of 2023. Tires older than six years should be replaced, even if they look fine.

Temporary or "Donut" Spare Tires: Handle With Extreme Caution

Now for the more common scenario: the temporary or "donut" spare. These are the small, lightweight spares designed for short-term, limited use. They're easy to spot – they're much smaller than your regular tires and often brightly colored (usually yellow or orange).

How Long Can You Drive? The official recommendation for donut spares is typically no more than 50 to 70 miles, and at a maximum speed of 50 mph (80 km/h). This is not a suggestion; it's a serious limitation. Donut spares are not designed for high speeds or long distances. They have significantly less tread, which means less grip, especially in wet or snowy conditions. They also affect your car's handling and braking performance.

Why the Limitations? Donut spares are smaller and lighter to save space and weight. However, this comes at a cost. They have a smaller contact patch with the road, reducing traction. They're also not built to withstand the same stresses as a full-size tire. Driving too far or too fast can cause them to overheat and potentially fail, leading to a dangerous situation.

Practical Tips:

Check the Tire Pressure: Before driving on a donut spare, ensure it's properly inflated. Check your owner's manual for the recommended pressure. It's usually significantly higher than your regular tires.
Drive Slowly and Carefully: Avoid sudden acceleration, braking, and sharp turns. Give yourself extra stopping distance.
Avoid Highway Driving: If possible, stick to local roads where you can maintain a lower speed.
Get it Replaced ASAP: Your primary goal should be to get your original tire repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Don't delay!

Run-Flat Tires: An Alternative, But Still Temporary

Some vehicles are equipped with run-flat tires. These tires are designed to allow you to drive for a limited distance after a puncture. They have reinforced sidewalls that can support the weight of the vehicle even with zero air pressure.

How Long Can You Drive? The range and speed limitations of run-flat tires vary depending on the manufacturer and tire model. However, a general guideline is to drive no more than 50 miles at a maximum speed of 50 mph. Consult your owner's manual for specific recommendations.

Important Considerations: Run-flat tires are more expensive than regular tires. Also, after driving on a flat run-flat tire, it will need to be replaced, even if it doesn't appear to be damaged. Driving on a punctured run-flat tire puts significant stress on the tire's internal structure, compromising its integrity.

Changing a Tire: Essential Tools and Steps

Regardless of the type of spare you have, knowing how to change a tire is a crucial skill. Here's a quick overview:

Tools You'll Need:

Spare tire (properly inflated)
Jack
Lug wrench
Owner's manual (for jack points and lug nut torque specifications)
Gloves (optional, but recommended)
Wheel wedges
Flashlight (if changing a tire at night)

Steps:

Park on a level surface away from traffic. Engage the parking brake.
Turn on your hazard lights.
Place wheel wedges behind the wheels opposite the flat tire.
Locate the jack points (refer to your owner's manual).
Loosen the lug nuts (but don't remove them completely) *before* jacking up the car.
Position the jack and raise the vehicle until the flat tire is off the ground.
Completely remove the lug nuts and the flat tire.
Mount the spare tire onto the wheel studs.
Hand-tighten the lug nuts.
Lower the vehicle until the spare tire is just touching the ground.
Tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern (opposite nuts) to the proper torque specification (refer to your owner's manual). A torque wrench is ideal for this.
Lower the vehicle completely and remove the jack.
Double-check the lug nut tightness.
Stow the flat tire and tools.
Check the pressure of the spare tire.

Safety First! If you're not comfortable changing a tire yourself, or if you're on a busy road, call for roadside assistance. Your safety is the top priority.

Repairing or Replacing Your Original Tire: Costs and Options

Once you're safely on your spare, it's time to address the issue with your original tire. You have two main options: repair or replacement.

Tire Repair: If the puncture is small and located in the tread area (not the sidewall), a tire repair may be possible. A professional tire shop can patch or plug the tire to seal the leak. The cost of a tire repair typically ranges from $20 to $40. However, not all punctures are repairable. Sidewall damage, large punctures, or multiple punctures usually require tire replacement.

Tire Replacement: If the tire is damaged beyond repair, or if it's nearing the end of its lifespan, you'll need to replace it. It's generally recommended to replace tires in pairs (both front or both rear) to maintain even wear and handling. The cost of a new tire can vary widely depending on the size, brand, and type. Expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $300 or more per tire. Installation costs are usually extra.

Important: After replacing or repairing your tire, have your wheels balanced and aligned. This will ensure even tire wear and optimal handling.

Don't Delay!

Driving on a spare tire should always be considered a temporary solution. Whether you have a full-size spare, a donut spare, or run-flat tires, it's crucial to address the issue with your original tire as soon as possible. Prioritize your safety and the longevity of your vehicle by getting your tire repaired or replaced promptly. Putting it off is never a good idea, potentially costing you much more in the long run, and, more importantly, compromising your safety.