Drivers should replace spare tires that are older than about six years, even if they have tread left.
It’s a good idea to replace your spare tire when you replace your regular tires. If it’s a full-size spare, incorporate it into your regular tire rotation schedule to keep the wear levels even.
How long can you drive on a spare tire?
In general, you should not drive more than 50 miles with a donut. A donut spare tire should not be driven any longer than it takes for you to get your tire fixed.
Donut spares are not the same size as the rest of your tires. They are smaller and have thinner contact patches, which could make your car handle unusually. Driving on a donut for prolonged periods may even damage your transmission and suspension.
Even if you have a full-sized spare, you’ll want to take your car to a trusted mechanic or tire shop to replace or repair the flat tire.
What happens if you drive too long on a spare tire?
Driving on a donut spare tire for an extended period can put stress on your vehicle’s transmission and suspension and may lead to damage over time. Donut spare tires are intended for temporary use only, so drivers should use them only long enough to reach a repair shop and have a full-size tire installed.
Types of spare tires
There are two kind of spares: a space-saver, also called a donut, or a full-size spare that’s the same as the wheels you drive on.
No matter what kind of spare tire you have, they have something in common: rubber tires. Rubber degrades over time. It’s not recommended to drive on tires older than about six years, even if they have tread left.
What are run-flat tires?
Run-flat tires are tires designed to be driven on even after a puncture. They have reinforcements that allow you to drive just enough to get to the tire shop. If punctured, they should not be driven for more than 50 miles or at speeds over 50 miles per hour.
These can give you some piece of mind if your car doesn’t have a spare. Some luxury and sports cars don’t include or have the space for a spare tire. A downside to run-flat tires is price: they’re more expensive to replace and can’t be repaired.
Where is the spare tire located?
If your car came with a spare tire, it will be typically stored somewhere inside or near your trunk. On sedans and small SUVs, it will be usually under the floor liner of your trunk. On larger vehicles, it may be mounted on the exterior on the back or underneath.
How to tell the age of a spare tire
To figure out the age of your tire, look for a four-digit number on the sidewall. This is the time code. The first two digits indicate the week of the year it was manufactured. The last two digits indicate the year.
For example, a tire with the time code 1020 was made on the tenth week of 2020.
Checking the air in the spare
Your spare tire should be inflated to specification, and you should check the air pressure every year. You can’t fix a flat if your spare tire is also flat!
Fill the donut to the tire pressure noted. Typically, this will be higher than a normal tire. If you have a full-size spare, inflate it to the same pressure as your normal tires are.
Can you use the spare of another car?
Do not use the spare of another car. You should only use the spare tire that’s designed to go with your car. Wheels can vary greatly between cars, and using a wheel of the wrong size can damage your car.
Can you drive on the highway with a donut spare tire?
You can drive on the highway with a spare tire, but only when necessary. If you must use a spare tire, keep your speed below 50 mph and avoid driving more than 50 miles, as most temporary spare tires are designed for short-term use only.
To help ensure your safety and prevent potential damage to your vehicle, replace the spare with a standard tire as soon as possible.
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This article is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for or intended as professional advice. Please be sure to refer to your owner’s manual or consult a mechanic for information specific to your vehicle. The information contained in the article herein is provided on an “as is” basis, with no guarantees of completeness, accuracy, usefulness or timeliness and without any warranties of any kind whatsoever, express or implied. Plymouth Rock assumes no responsibility for any errors or omissions in the content of the article contained herein. Any action taken upon this information is strictly at your own risk, and Plymouth Rock will not be liable for any losses or damages in connection with your use of this article.