How Long Can I Drive on a Spare Tire?

We’ve all been there—driving along when suddenly you hear that dreaded flapping sound of a flat tire. Whether you're a pro at changing tires or not, having a spare tire is always a lifesaver on those not-so-great days. Once the spare is on, you’re back on the road, but it’s important to remember that spare tires are not permanent solutions.

So, how long can you actually drive on a spare tire? Let’s break it down, because it depends on the type of spare tire you have.

A Space-Saver Spare Tire (or Donut)

If you’ve noticed that your spare tire is smaller than your regular tires, you likely have a space-saver spare, often called a "donut." These smaller spares are designed to save space in your car, which allows manufacturers to build more compact vehicles.

While space-saver tires are great for emergencies, they are not designed for long-term use. They typically have almost no tread, making them hazardous for extended driving. Here’s a general rule of thumb:

Don't drive more than 70 miles on a space-saver tire.
Don’t exceed 50 mph while driving with it.
Always check your owner’s manual after installing a space-saver spare for exact details.

In most cases, it’s best to avoid highways and interstates when driving on a space-saver tire, as higher speeds and long distances increase the risk of failure.

While they’re convenient in a pinch, it’s crucial to get a full-size tire installed as soon as possible.

A Full-Size Spare Tire

Unlike space-saver tires, a full-size spare tire is the same size as your regular tires, offering more durability and the ability to drive longer distances. These are not common in compact cars due to the extra space they take up, but they provide much more peace of mind if you get a flat.

You can typically drive on a full-size spare just as you would with your normal tires, but keep in mind it’s probably not from the same manufacturer as your other tires. This could mean the tire handles slightly differently. While a full-size spare can buy you more time, we still recommend replacing it with a matching tire as soon as possible to ensure optimal handling and safety.

Have Auto Care Questions? Ask our experts at Team Ryan Automotive.

Need to Schedule Your Vehicle Service? Make an appointment with us today!

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Stay Road-Ready: Summer Car Emergency Kit Essentials from Team Ryan Automotive

By Dan Ryan • May 21, 2025

How Essential Is a Summer Emergency Kit?

How Heat Affects Your Tires and What You Can Do About It

By Dan Ryan • May 9, 2025

Summer heat affects every part of your car, but your tires are especially vulnerable. The hot pavement, rising internal pressure, and long drives can all contribute to tire failure. At Team Ryan Automotive, we want to make sure your tires stay safe and road-ready all season. Here is how summer heat impacts your tires and what you can do to protect them. 1. Increased Air Pressure As temperatures rise, so does the air pressure inside your tires. For every 10-degree increase in temperature, tire pressure can rise by one to two pounds per square inch (PSI). Overinflation can cause tires to wear unevenly and increase the risk of a blowout. Check your tire pressure regularly and adjust it according to your vehicle’s recommended levels. 2. Faster Tread Wear Heat softens rubber, making it wear down more quickly. This is especially true if you are driving at high speeds on hot asphalt. Inspect your tires weekly during the summer for signs of excessive or uneven tread wear. If you notice balding or sidewall damage, it is time for a replacement. 3. Risk of Blowouts Blowouts are more common in summer because the combination of high speed, high pressure, and worn tires creates the perfect storm. To reduce your risk, avoid overloading your vehicle, maintain proper tire pressure, and replace old or worn tires as soon as needed. 4. Importance of Tire Rotation Rotating your tires helps them wear evenly, improving traction and extending their lifespan. Team Ryan Automotive recommends rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. This simple step can save you money and help keep your vehicle safe. 5. Alignment and Balancing Improper wheel alignment or unbalanced tires can cause uneven wear and strain on your suspension. If your vehicle pulls to one side or your steering wheel vibrates at high speeds, schedule a wheel alignment and tire balancing service. This can enhance tire performance and improve ride comfort. Visit Team Ryan Automotive for Tire Safety Tire safety is essential for your comfort, performance, and protection. If you are not sure about the condition of your tires, let our experts take a look. We offer tire inspections, pressure adjustments, rotations, alignments, and tire replacements. Whether you are commuting around town or planning a summer getaway, we will make sure your tires are ready for the heat. Keep your summer rolling smoothly with tire care you can trust. Schedule your tire service today at Team Ryan Automotive.

Top 5 Road Trip Tips to Prevent Breakdowns This Summer

By Dan Ryan • May 9, 2025

Summer road trips are a classic American tradition. Whether you are headed to the beach, the mountains, or your favorite theme park, the journey should be just as enjoyable as the destination. To help you avoid unexpected delays and make the most of your trip, here are five key vehicle preparation tips from Team Ryan Automotive. 1. Start with an Oil Change Fresh oil helps your engine stay cool, reduces friction, and supports fuel efficiency. If your oil is dirty or your last change was more than 3,000 miles ago, schedule an oil change before your trip. Remember, all TRA oil changes come with our complimentary Standard Vehicle Inspection. 2. Inspect Tires for Wear and Pressure Proper tire maintenance is essential for road safety. Check the tread depth to ensure there is enough grip, especially if you expect rain. Look for cracks, bulges, or signs of dry rot that could lead to blowouts. Finally, make sure all four tires are inflated to the correct pressure. Do not forget to check the spare tire too. 3. Test Your Battery and Charging System No one wants to deal with a dead battery in the middle of a road trip. Summer heat can weaken your battery and stress your alternator. Visit Team Ryan Automotive for a battery test and charging system inspection. If your battery is nearing the end of its life, we will recommend a replacement to keep you powered up. 4. Check Brakes and Brake Fluid Reliable brakes are vital for a safe trip. Listen for squeaking or grinding when braking and watch for a spongy pedal feel. These could be signs that your brake pads or fluid need attention. Let us perform a full brake inspection to make sure your vehicle is ready for any driving condition. 5. Prepare Your Emergency Kit Every road trip should include an emergency kit. Stock it with jumper cables, a flashlight, basic tools, bottled water, a first-aid kit, and non-perishable snacks. Having these items on hand can help you handle unexpected delays or mechanical issues more comfortably. Bonus Tip: Schedule a Pre-Trip Inspection Before hitting the road, bring your vehicle to Team Ryan Automotive for a pre-trip inspection . Our certified technicians will check your fluids, belts, hoses, tires, and more. We will catch small issues before they become trip-ending problems. Enjoy Peace of Mind on the Road A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to summer travel. Our team is here to help you enjoy your road trip with fewer surprises and more smiles. Schedule your service visit today and travel with peace of mind.