A spare tyre can be a lifesaver when you experience a puncture or tyre failure, but it’s important to remember that it’s only a temporary solution. Whether you have a full-size spare, a space-saver wheel, or a temporary “get-you-home” tyre, there are limits to how far and how fast you can safely drive on it. In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of spare tyres, their limitations, and how to use them correctly to ensure your safety on the road.
Realising that you have a flat tyre is incredibly frustrating, but changing the flat and driving on a spare tyre is just the beginning. Initially published in 2014 and updated in 2019 to reflect changes in the auto industry and maintenance recommendations, our auto experts explain how long you can drive a spare tyre before you need to buy a new one.
Once the old tyre is off your car and packed safely in the trunk, you’re left with a spare tyre to get your vehicle safely to the nearest auto repair shop. If you’re lucky, the mechanics can fix your flat tyre but, if the tyre has been damaged beyond repair, you’ll need to buy a new one.
For some, investing hundreds of pounds on a new tyre just isn’t on the cards. That leaves the question, “How long can you drive on a spare tyre? Our answer to this is ‘It depends.’
In older cars, each model came with a spare tyre that matched the tyres already on the vehicle. Over the years, car manufacturers have realised that spare tyres are being used so rarely that it makes little sense to equip every vehicle with a full-size spare. For this reason, manufacturers have started to leave puncture repair kits. These repair kits are not always adequate, so it’s a good idea to buy yourself a space saver like those available on our site.
How Long Can You Drive on a Spare Tyre?
The length of time you can safely drive on a spare tyre depends on the type of spare you have:
- Full-Size Spare Tyre: You can drive on a full-size spare indefinitely, as it functions like a regular tyre. However, it’s still a good idea to repair or replace the damaged tyre as soon as possible.
- Space-Saver Spare Tyre: Most space-saver tyres are designed for short-term use only, typically up to 50-70 miles at a maximum speed of 50 mph. Exceeding these limits can cause the tyre to overheat or fail.
- “Get-You-Home” Tyre: These tyres are intended for very short distances, usually no more than 30 miles at a maximum speed of 30 mph.
Why Are There Limits on Spare Tyres?
Spare tyres, particularly space-saver and “get-you-home” tyres, are not designed for long-term use. Here’s why:
- Different Size and Tread Pattern: Space-saver tyres are smaller and have a different tread pattern, which can affect handling, braking, and stability.
- Reduced Load Capacity: Temporary spare tyres are not built to support the same weight as a full-size tyre, making them unsuitable for extended use.
- Heat Build-Up: Driving at high speeds or for long distances can cause the tyre to overheat, increasing the risk of a blowout.
- Uneven Wear: Using a spare tyre for too long can cause uneven wear on your vehicle’s drivetrain, suspension, or braking system.
Full-Size Spare Tyres
For years, cars have been equipped with spare tyre wells capable of holding full-size spare wheels. This is still the case with many older cars (and a few newer ones). When you purchased a bus, an SUV or a larger vehicle, your car could have been fitted with a full-size spare. Although a full-size spare is heavier and requires storage space, these tyres are more durable and can handle a drive similar to a regular tyre.
When you’ve taken your car to the tyre shop and heard that your original tyre can not be replaced, you can request that the spare tyre be put on the original tyre rim – just make sure to test the air pressure of the spare tyre. This process is fast and cheap and will allow you to drive a spare tyre for a longer period of time.
Space-Savers
These narrow, compact spare wheels were designed to save space and weight in the vehicle. The tyre itself isn’t built to last and should be used to get you to a garage so you can get your worn-out tyre replaced. Your owner’s manual will provide advice on driving time and velocity. The general rule of thumb is to drive no more than 70 miles and no more than 50 miles an hour before replacing your space saver with a new tyre.
The main reason to use such space-savers for a limited period of time is that they have little to no footprint. It makes the space saver vulnerable to road hazards and projectiles. It’s also much narrower than the other three tyres, meaning it rotates faster to keep up with the moving vehicle.
Over those 70 miles, the lubrication grease would break down, causing excessive damage on the gears and the clutch plates.
Run-Flat Tyres
Run-flat tires are becoming more popular as manufacturers understand that they cost less to maintain than conventional tyres. If you’re driving a new BMW or MINI model, your car is likely to have run-flat tires. These tyres are more robust than most tyres, but they are not made to last forever.
Instead of having a spare tyre, these run-flat tyres are designed to withstand most road hazards, including punctures.
Final thoughts
A spare tyre is a valuable tool in an emergency, but it’s essential to understand its limitations. Whether you have a full-size spare, a space-saver tyre, or a “get-you-home” tyre, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for speed and distance. By doing so, you can ensure your safety and avoid causing further damage to your vehicle.
If you’re unsure about using a spare tyre, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or seek advice from a professional. Remember, a spare tyre is a temporary solution—always aim to repair or replace the damaged tyre as soon as possible.
