Spare tires can be helpful, but only as a temporary measure. They’re not meant to replace your regular tires, and prolonged use could damage your car.
How far you can travel on a spare tire depends on its type and condition, with typical temporary spare tires not suitable for long distance drives at high speeds. A “donut” should only be used as an interim measure while you wait for permanent solutions to arrive.
Donut spares
Most cars come equipped with donut spare tires in their trunk, designed to get you from one location to the next quickly and without incident. Since these temporary tires have limited tread and wear out quickly when exposed to constant use, donut spares should only be used temporarily as emergency solutions and should only be driven during emergencies; otherwise they could lead to increased damage to both yourself and your car.
Donut spare tires typically last around 70 miles on one fill-up and should be driven slowly with your hazard lights illuminated for optimal performance. Experts generally agree that donut spares are designed for limited mileage use only; high speeds should be avoided to help ensure greater gripping ability on the road and minimize risks.
Donut tires should be regularly checked for signs of wear and tear. Anytime cracks or other forms of damage appear, replacement should occur immediately. Inflation levels should also remain at their recommended levels to ensure it’s ready when needed.
Full-size spares
Some modern vehicles include a full-sized spare tire that matches your other tires and can be located within your trunk for quick replacement in case of flats as long as they’re not driven too far or at too high a speed.
Some vehicles feature temporary spare tires in their trunks – usually hidden underneath carpeting – known as donut spares that take up less space but offer significantly less traction than full-size tires. If using one, however, only drive at speeds no higher than 50 mph to maximize safety.
Run-flat spare tires are another viable option for some vehicles, usually found only in more luxurious cars and SUVs. With special reinforcements inside that allow temporary driving after punctures, run-flat spare tires may only last temporarily before their rubber wears down and requires replacement with regular tires.
Driving on a spare tire
Spare tires are great to have around in case of emergencies, but should only be used for short duration. Driving on one for too long could cause additional wear and tear to the main tires as well as negatively affecting how your vehicle drives.
The length of time you can drive on a spare tire depends on its type. A donut or space-saver spare should only be driven for short distances due to being smaller and having limited traction; overexertion could damage transmission or suspension systems of your car.
Full-size spare tires do have a longer lifespan, but they should never be seen as a viable replacement for main tires. Overusing one could cause uneven tread wear that causes main tires to wear down quicker. Also remember if driving on spares to check pressure regularly!
Tire pressure
Tire pressure in a spare is of vital importance and should be checked regularly, especially during winter and when tires are cold. Maintaining manufacturer recommended pressure levels will enhance traction, handling, and durability of the tire.
Donut spare tires differ in size from regular tires and often feature thinner contact patches that could lead to uneven wear and handling problems. As such, it is wise to only drive them for limited distances at speeds no greater than 50 miles an hour and visit a service center near Hayward as soon as possible for maintenance services.
Run-flat tires provide another solution after losing air, but have limits as to how long they should be driven for. It is recommended to only use them temporarily and visit a service center near New London as soon as possible after losing air; using them too long could damage both the tire itself as well as cause additional issues with your car.
Chris is a passionate learner and writer. When he’s not working on his blog or learning something new, he’s a full-time systems administrator and father of two beautiful girls. Chris loves spending time with his family, reading, writing, and playing hockey.