How Long Can You Drive on a Spare Tire?

It is critical to replace your spare tire as soon as possible, but the actual mileage amount depends on what type of spare you are driving on. A full-size spare will give you more time and mileage, but most smaller space-saver tires need to be replaced within 70 miles at most. Learn more spare tire safety info and more from the skilled service team at INFINITI of Clarendon Hills.

How Long Can I Drive on a Space-Saver Spare?

Let’s say you’re out on the road near Elmhurst and you get a flat — or you experienced a tire blowout from ignoring a TPMS light. If you find that your spare is smaller than your regular tires, you have a space-saver spare, or what is commonly referred to as a “donut” spare. They’re included on many new vehicles and come with some noteworthy restrictions:

• Do not exceed 50 miles per hour when driving on a space-saver spare
• You will have less traction with a space-saver spare than with a full-size spare

Take a look at your space-saver spare itself for any other listed usage restrictions. When utilizing this type of spare, it is essential to get to the nearest service center quickly to repair your old tire or purchase a new one.

How Long Can I Drive on a Full-Size Spare?

How long can you drive on a spare when it is a larger, full-size spare? While these types of spares are less common, they’re often included with new vehicles that are larger in size, like trucks and SUVs. These spares can be used longer than a space-saver spare, but it is still important to have the tire replaced as soon as possible.

It’s unlikely that it’s the same brand as your other tires, which can lead to poor traction and handling. Furthermore, since the spare is new, it will not have the same amount of wear as the other tires. Whether you’re in Downers Grove or Westmont, we recommend visiting the service center at INFINITI of Clarendon Hills when you experience a flat so we can get you back on the road safely.

Tire Care Advice and More from INFINITI of Clarendon Hills

So, how long can you drive on a spare tire? Ideally, you will drive on a spare tire for only as many miles as it takes to get to a tire center, without exceeding 70 miles. For more helpful information on tires, contact INFINITI of Clarendon Hills today! With plenty of INFINITI parts available in our parts center, we’ll have you back on the road in no time!