Donut tire how long

Share this site! By AAA Automotive. Search More Facilities. Myth: You can drive normally on a smaller-sized spare tire.

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You know, the temporary spares that are much skinnier than the tires on your car, with a prominent warning about maximum speed on the side. You're probably wondering how long you can drive on it before you get your other tire repaired at a reputable shop. We're here to help. The best place to start is your owner's manual, which should list the exact recommended mileage for the spare tire. If you don't have a manual, 70 miles is the rule of thumb.

Temporary, donut spare tires are not designed for long-range service. They are made to get you to a garage to have your tire either repaired or replaced. Driving on it for an extended period of time under regular driving conditions will result in a blowout in short order, so get a safe tire on your car immediately. Donut spare tires are not made for extended service. They have little tread to speak of, the carcass or body of the tire is not reinforced, and there is no belting to protect it from punctures and road imperfections.

The tire is designed simply to get you to a repair facility. Most of these tires offer a maximum life of 70 miles. There's another reason to avoid driving on the spare: mechanical damage. The smaller spare tire can cause premature wear on your differential. Replacing the differential is a lot more expensive than replacing a tire. Trust us. Get the tire repaired as soon as possible, and don't push your luck.

It should say right on the side of the spare tire, or on the wheel itself on a large, prominent sticker. If that's missing or illegible, the rule of thumb is to not drive faster than 50 mph with a donut spare tire. Going faster could cause tire failure, differential damage, or both. Try to avoid the freeway if possible. And get to a tire repair facility as soon as possible. You may notice poor cornering, handling, and braking characteristics.

The donut spare has a smaller footprint than a conventional tire, which translates into diminished braking, roadholding and handling.