How Far Can You Really Drive on a Spare Tire?

Part of being a responsible driver is understanding how to safely handle your vehicle in different situations. Whether it's driving through an unexpected detour or making sure your roadside emergency kit has all the proper supplies, drivers should always be prepared for whatever the road has in store.

One often-overlooked piece of emergency preparedness? Your spare tire.

Many drivers assume a spare tire can handle normal driving—but most are only meant to get you safely to a repair shop.

Here, we explain the different types of spare tires and the key limits every driver should know after getting a flat.

What are the different types of spare tires?

Although spare tires have historically been a standard feature on vehicles, many newer vehicles no longer include them, opting instead for a lighter, flat-repair kit. Why the change by auto manufacturers? Removing the spare reduces vehicle weight, which can improve fuel efficiency.

Full-size spare

Larger vehicles like Jeeps, pickups, or SUVs, usually have a full-size spare tire that often matches the make and tread pattern of the vehicle’s regular tires. These types of spares allow drivers to continue traveling with little or no difference in performance and handling.

Donut (space-saver) spare

However, most vehicles have smaller, lighter tires that can be used in the event of a flat tire. They're often referred to as "donuts" or "space-saver spares." These temporary tires are designed only to help you reach a repair shop or service station. They save trunk space—but come with strict limits on speed and distance.

Inflatable or expandable spare

In some high-performance sports cars and luxury vehicles where weight reduction, performance, and handling are the most important features, there’s not a lot of room left for a spare tire. These vehicles often come equipped with an expandable spare tire that mounts to a rim and inflates using a small air compressor. Like donut tires, they’re designed only to help you safely reach a repair facility.
  

How far can you drive on a spare?

Inflatable spares and donut spares are temporary solutions—not permanent replacements. These types of spares have thinner sidewalls and a simpler tread pattern. Because they are less durable, temporary spares aren’t designed to handle rough roads, long distances, or extended driving.

Rule of thumb:
You should not drive on a temporary spare tire for more than 50 miles. Driving farther can increase the risk of tire failure or damage to your vehicle.

How fast can you drive on a spare tire?

Temporary spare tires aren’t built to handle the day-to-day driving rigors of a regular, full-size tire.

Driving on a spare for an extended period of time can increase wear and tear on various components of your vehicle, including the steering, suspension, and alignment. Drivers should always keep speeds at 50 miles per hour or less while driving on a temporary spare tire.

The safest move: Head directly to a repair shop, and replace the damaged tire as soon as possible.