How Long Can You Drive On A Spare Tire

You are wondering how long can you drive on a spare tire, aren’t you?

You may know the phrase, “You don’t want to drive on a spare tire forever!” And while it’s true that you shouldn’t keep using your spare tire long-term, there is such a thing as needing to use it for longer than anticipated. If you’re a taxi driver, driver, biker, traveler, or mechanic living life on the road, then this post is for you!

We’ll discuss how far (or how long) one can safely drive on their spare tire and what precautionary measures should be taken in order to ensure safety when driving with a spare.

So hang tight, we’ve got all of your questions answered about how long can you drive on a spare tire!

Reasons to Have A Spare Tire On The Car

Before we discuss how long can you drive on a spare tire, it’s important to first note why one should have a spare tire in the car.

It is an essential part of your vehicle that allows you to continue driving after suffering flat or other types of automotive mishap. Not having a spare tire could easily mean being stranded on the side of the road until help arrives, making it all the more important to have a spare.

In addition, a spare tire also increases your safety. With a flat tire, you are more likely to lose control of your vehicle if it skids on the road surface due to low friction from the lack of air pressure in the tire.

In other words, having a spare tire in your car is important for both convenience and safety reasons.

How Long Can You Drive On A Spare Tire?

Now that you are aware of why it is important to have a spare tire in your car. But, how long can you drive on a spare tire? Well, generally speaking, you should not use the spare tire for more than 50 miles or 80 kilometers, and at a maximum speed of 50 mph (80 km/h).

Using your spare tire beyond this time or speed limit is highly discouraged, as it can cause further damage to your car and tire. Additionally, you should also check in with a mechanic immediately once you arrive at your destination so they can inspect and replace your spare tire as soon as possible.

Compact Temporary Spares (Donut Tires): How Far Should You Drive?

How long can you drive on a spare tire depends on what kind of tire you have. If you have a compact temporary spare, also known as a donut tire, then how far can you safely drive on it?

You should only use a compact temporary spare for short drives at low speeds (less than 50 mph or 80 km/h) and no more than 50 miles (80 kilometers). Beyond that, the tires are not designed to handle long distances or high speeds and may cause further damage to your vehicle if driven too far.

How Long Can You Drive On A Spare Time If It’s Full-Sized?

If you have a full-sized tire as the spare, then how long can you drive on it? A full-sized spare tire is similar to your regular tires and should be treated as such.

You can usually drive up to 200 miles (320 kilometers) in this case, but at a maximum speed of 55 mph (90 km/h). Once again, it is very important that you replace your spare with the original tire or one of similar size and load capacity immediately after reaching your destination.

How Far Can You Drive On A Folding Temporary Spare Tire?

So, how long can you drive on a spare tire if it’s a folding temporary? You should only use a folding temporary spare tire for short distances and driving at low speeds (less than 50 mph or 80 km/h). Generally speaking, you should not drive more than 50 miles (80 kilometers) on this kind of spare. Once you reach your destination, it is best to replace the tire immediately with one of similar size and load capacity.

To Full-Size Non-Matching One, How Long Can You Drive On A Spare Tire?

If you have a full-sized non-matching tire as your spare, how long can you drive on a spare tire? In this case, the answer is usually no more than 200 miles (320 kilometers) and at a maximum speed of 55 mph (90 km/h). It is highly recommended that you replace the spare with either the original tire or one of similar size and load capacity immediately after reaching your destination.

Precautionary Measures When Driving With A Spare Tire

It is important to take precautionary measures when driving with a spare tire to ensure safety for both you and other motorists. Make sure that the spare tire is securely inflated before using it. Additionally, avoid any sharp turns or rapid accelerations, these can cause the tire to skid and lead to a dangerous situation.

Ultimately, how long can you drive on a spare tire depends on what kind of tire you have. In any case, make sure that you replace your spare as soon as possible when you reach your destination. Safety and convenience will be guaranteed by doing this.

Pro Tips for Driving On A Spare Tire

There you have it – how long can you drive on a spare tire. Here are some additional pointers to bear in mind:

• Be sure to check the condition of your spare before using it. Any damage or wear should be addressed immediately by a professional mechanic.
• Avoid any sudden accelerations, turns, or braking. These can cause the tire to skid and lead to accidents.
• Drive as smoothly as possible while keeping an eye out for any signs of deterioration in the condition of your spare tire.
• Replace your spare with either the original tire or one of similar size and load capacity once you reach your destination.
• If necessary, use a roadside service when dealing with a flat tire so that you don’t have to drive on a spare for too long.

FAQs of Driving On A Spare Tire

What happens if I drive on a spare tire for a long time?

Driving on a spare tire for too long can cause further damage to your vehicle, as the tires are not designed to handle long distances or high speeds. It is important that you replace the spare with either the original tire or one of similar size and load capacity immediately after reaching your destination.

What is the maximum speed for driving on a spare tire?

The maximum speed for driving on a spare tire depends on what kind of tire it is. For full-sized spares, you should not drive more than 55 mph (90 km/h). For folding temporary spares, you should keep your speed below 50 mph (80 km/h).

Can I replace my spare with any other tire?

No, it is recommended that you replace the spare with either the original tire or one of similar size and load capacity. This is to ensure the maximum safety and performance of your vehicle. Consult a professional mechanic if you are unsure of what type of tire to use.

What should I do if my spare tire suffers a flat on the way?

If your spare tire suffers a flat while you are on the way, it is best to contact a roadside service and have them replace the tire with either the original tire or one of similar size and load capacity. If necessary, they may also be able to repair the spare in some cases.

Conclusion

We hope this article has answered how long can you drive on a spare tire for you. Remember that if your spare tire fails, it is best to immediately contact a professional mechanic to replace it with either the original tire or one of similar size and load capacity. Additionally, take precautionary measures when driving with a spare by avoiding any sudden accelerations, turns, or braking. 

Following these simple tips from the Yellow Cab of Memphis will ensure maximum safety for both you and other motorists. Happy driving!