How to Drive Safely on a Spare Tire
There’s nothing more frustrating than experiencing a flat tire when you’re on the road, especially at the most inconvenient time. However, when you find yourself in this situation, your spare tire is your lifeline. Whether you have a full-size spare or a smaller temporary tire (often referred to as a “donut” tire), it’s essential to know how to handle your vehicle while driving on a spare. Having the right knowledge can make all the difference in ensuring your safety and protecting your vehicle from further damage.
MR. TIRE INC.
2078 New York Ave, Huntington Station, NY 11746, USA
1. Understanding the Spare Tire: What Type Do You Have?
The first thing you need to know when driving on a spare tire is the type of spare tire you have. Most modern cars come with either a full-size spare or a smaller, temporary tire. Full-size spares are essentially identical to the regular tires that come with your car, which means you can drive on them just as you would on any other tire. They can be used for longer periods without compromising your vehicle’s performance.
On the other hand, temporary spare tires, often referred to as “donut” tires, are smaller, lighter, and designed only for short-term use. They are not meant to handle high speeds or long distances. If you’re driving on a donut spare, you need to be especially cautious and aware of its limitations. Make sure to check the tire's specifications, usually printed on the sidewall, to understand its maximum speed limit and recommended driving distance. Most donut tires are rated for speeds of up to 50 mph (80 km/h) and should only be used for a limited distance—typically 50 to 70 miles.
MR. TIRE INC.
2078 New York Ave, Huntington Station, NY 11746, USA
2. Drive Slowly and Carefully
Whether you’re using a full-size spare or a temporary tire, driving carefully is crucial. When driving on a spare tire, your vehicle’s handling will be different from usual, particularly if you’re using a donut. A spare tire, especially a smaller one, has less grip and traction than a full-sized tire, which means your car might not handle turns or abrupt stops as well. The last thing you want is to lose control, so it’s important to adjust your driving style.
Here are a few tips to help you drive safely on a spare tire:
- Reduce your speed: As mentioned earlier, donut tires are not designed for high speeds. Driving faster than the recommended limit can increase the risk of tire blowouts and reduce your overall safety. Stick to the speed limit, and even consider driving slower than usual if conditions permit.
- Increase your stopping distance: Spare tires typically have less traction, which means your stopping distance may be longer than usual. Make sure to allow more space between you and the vehicle in front of you, and be prepared for longer braking times.
- Avoid sudden maneuvers: Quick turns, sharp lane changes, or sudden braking can cause the spare tire to lose grip, especially in slippery conditions. Stay calm and make smooth, gradual movements with the steering wheel and pedals.
3. Pay Attention to Your Vehicle’s Handling
One of the most noticeable differences when driving on a spare tire is how your car handles. When you’re on a temporary spare, your vehicle’s alignment may feel off, especially if the tire pressure is slightly different from your regular tires. The car might pull to one side or feel less stable in turns, particularly if you’re driving on a slick or wet road.
It’s important to stay alert and adjust your driving to these changes. For example, when driving in rainy or wet conditions, you may want to drive even slower than usual to account for reduced traction. If your car begins pulling to one side, it’s an indicator that the spare tire is affecting the vehicle’s alignment, and you should take extra caution when steering.
4. Avoid Highways and High-Speed Roads
Driving on a spare tire for long distances or at high speeds is never a good idea. While it might be tempting to hop on the highway and speed back to your destination, the temporary spare tire isn’t built for that kind of use. A donut tire is generally smaller and thinner, and it doesn’t have the durability to handle the constant stress of highway driving.
If possible, avoid highways and opt for local roads or backstreets to minimize the strain on your spare tire. If you must drive on the highway, do so cautiously, keeping your speed at or below the recommended limits and staying in the right lane to avoid the need for rapid acceleration or deceleration.
5. Monitor Tire Pressure Regularly
One of the most important things to keep in mind when driving on a spare tire is that tire pressure is crucial. A low or overinflated spare tire can lead to issues like poor handling, increased wear, and even tire failure. Check the pressure of the spare tire before you set off, and make sure it matches the recommended pressure listed in your vehicle’s manual or on the tire itself. If you’re unsure about how to check the pressure, you can visit a gas station with an air pump or use a portable tire gauge to ensure it’s in the proper range.
If you’re driving for an extended period on a spare, it’s worth checking the tire pressure again midway through your trip, especially if you’re covering longer distances. Low tire pressure can increase the risk of heat buildup, which is dangerous for any tire, especially a temporary one. Make sure to have it checked regularly during the time you're using the spare tire.
6. Don’t Overload Your Vehicle
Another important consideration when driving on a spare tire is the weight of your vehicle. Temporary spare tires are designed to carry lighter loads than a full-size tire. Overloading your vehicle can cause the spare tire to wear out prematurely or even blow out under the added pressure.
If you have a full load of passengers or cargo, consider reducing the weight in your vehicle before driving on the spare. Avoid packing unnecessary items, and ensure that your car isn’t carrying more weight than the spare tire can handle. Keeping your vehicle light and balanced will help prevent damage to the spare and reduce the strain on your suspension and other components.
7. Replace the Spare Tire As Soon As Possible
Remember that a spare tire, particularly a donut tire, is only a temporary solution. As soon as possible, get your flat tire repaired or replaced with a proper, full-size tire. The longer you drive on a spare tire, the more wear and tear it will experience, which could lead to further safety issues down the line.
As soon as you can, visit a tire repair shop or schedule an appointment with a mechanic to get a replacement. The quicker you do this, the less risk you run of damaging your vehicle or experiencing another flat while still driving on a spare.
In case of an emergency, if you’re unable to get to a repair shop, you can always reach out to Rescue & Towing for assistance. Whether you need a tow, help with a tire change, or a recommendation for a nearby service, they’re ready to help you out in any roadside emergency situation.
