How Long Can You Drive on a Spare Tire?

If you’re wondering, “how long can you drive on a spare tire?”, you’ve probably recently found yourself in a tricky situation, stuck with a flat or blown out tire in Thomasville, GA. Depending on the type of spare tire you have temporarily put on your vehicle, the number of miles you can safely drive on it in Crawfordville will vary. The most common type of spare tire – the space-saver – should be replaced no later than 70 miles after it was installed.

How Long Can You Drive on a Space-Saver Spare Tire?

Often, drivers are unsure of what type of spare tire they have on board until they actually need it. If the tire appears to be smaller than the rest of your tires, it’s a space-saver tire, otherwise known as a donut spare. This is the type of spare tire that is most commonly included with new vehicles, and there are certain restrictions you must be aware of. When asking yourself, “How long can I drive on a spare?”, keep this information in mind:

• You should not exceed 50 mph on a spare tire
• Space-saver or donut spare tires should not be driven on for more than 70 miles
• A space-saver spare tire will not provide the same level of traction as your original tire, or as a full-size spare tire

It’s a good idea to check your spare tire for any additional restrictions that may be listed on it. Once you get the spare tire on, your next order of business should be to schedule a service appointment without delay to have your old tire repaired or replaced.

How Long Can You Drive on a Full-Size Spare Tire?

Full-size spare tires are not as common as space-saver spare tires, but they’re sometimes provided with new pickup trucks and new SUVs. You can drive on a full-size spare tire longer than a space-saver spare, but you should still get it replaced as soon as possible. Although they’re larger than space-savers, it’s unlikely that a full-size spare is the same brand as your other tires, or that it can provide the same level of traction.

What About Run-Flat Tires?

You may have heard of run-flat tires, which are commonly found on performance vehicles. These unique tires are designed to continue driving even after being punctured. Here are some quick pros and cons of run-flat tires:

• Run-flat tires can maintain tire pressure for up to 50 miles after a puncture
• They are much tougher than space-saver or full-size spare tires
• They tend to come with a higher price tag than standard tires

If your vehicle is equipped with run-flat tires and your tire pressure monitor shows low pressure, your safest move will be to pull over and inspect your tires. If there is a visible puncture, you should head straight over to your preferred service center to have it repaired or replaced.

Schedule Tire Service in Tallahassee

If you have some additional questions relating to “how long can I drive on a spare?”, Dale Earnhardt Jr Buick GMC will be glad to help! Contact us or stop by the next time you’re visiting our area from Panama City. You can also find more tire advice in our online service information center!