How Fast (How Many Miles) Can You Drive on a Spare Tire?

In case of emergency when you have a flat tire, you can resort to using your spare tire. It is good for temporary use because it can regain road mobility.

But what are the conditions of driving on a spare tire? Can it be the solution to our problem?

How fast can we drive on it? How many miles can we reach on a spare tire?

Driving on a spare tire can make us drive up to 70 miles. Though you should not drive over 50 miles on a spare tire.

Using a spare tire can cause imbalance. So, we recommend that you should fix your flat tire.

The speed that you can take when driving on a spare tire should have a limit of 50 MPH. Driving faster than this can be a cause of a blowout.

If you want to know more about how far can you go with a spare tire, you can watch the following video:

Can You Use a Spare Tire More Than Once?

A spare tire can be used more than once. Just check the tread to be sure that it is still good to use again.

If there is no good tread left, you should replace it with a new one. Though you can still use this tire.

Spare Tire By Type

1. Full-Size Spare Tire

This is good for larger vehicles like trucks or SUVs. You can drive like you have a normal tire with this.

The benefit of using this type of tire is it is easy to always buy a new spare to use each time. Though if you have not used a spare for a long time, it can be different from the other three tires.

2. Space-Saver / Donut Spare Tire

This is a smaller spare that is lightweight. This will not last for a long time so you have to go to a repair shop.

You have to reach a repair shop in 70 miles.

3. Run-Flat Tire

This is the most popular spare tire because it has lower maintenance. It also costs less than traditional tires.

Run-flat tires can stand punctures. You can keep on driving for another 50 miles after having the puncture.

How to Drive Safely on a Spare Tire

Here is how you can drive on a spare tire.

• When not in use, always check the spare tire’s pressure.
• Make room for space and time to brake.
• Be careful when driving in bad weather.
• Replace the spare when needed.

Want to know more about how you can drive on a spare tire? Watch the following video:

FAQs

How Long Can You Use Spare Tire?

Drive no more than 50 miles using a spare tire. You can drive up to 70 miles at most.

Can You Purchase a Spare Tire?

If your vehicle does not come with a spare tire, you can buy a spare tire to reserve if ever your tire gets damaged. With a spare tire, all you have to do is to go to an auto repair shop to have your tire replaced.

Why Do They Call a Spare Tire Donut?

A spare tire is called a donut because it is used for traveling short distances. Also, because it is smaller than a regular tire.

Why Do New Cars Not Have Spare Tires?

Carmakers do not provide spare tires because of the regulatory pressure. It can increase the car’s weight to 40 to 50 pounds.

What Happens If You Drive Too Fast On a Spare Tire?

• The tire can blowout
• The vehicle can be damaged
• You can hit other vehicles
• You can lose control
• You can hit the pedestrian

How Much Does a Spare Tire Cost?

The spare tire costs $300 to $600. It may depend on the vehicle.

What Can I Use If I Do Not Have a Spare Tire?

• Consider using a tire repair kit.
• Buy run-flat tires.
• Be ready to contact roadside assistance.

Do Spare Tires Fit All Cars?

No spare tire fits all. Every tire should be specific to the vehicle model.

What Year Did They Stop Putting Spare Tires in Car?

It started in 1941. Putting spare tires on new cars has been prohibited by the U.S. government.

After World War II, rubber became harder to get. It is a cause of a ban that stopped having spare tires on new cars.

Do You Have to Replace a Spare Tire After Using It?

Even if you never use your spare tire, it needs to be replaced. The detail on how frequently you should replace your spare tire is written in your car’s manual.