How Long Can I Drive on a Spare Tire?

Ever considered how long you can drive on a spare tire on Chicago area roads? Today, we’re going to answer that question! While there’s no set amount of time it’s safe to drive on a spare, you’ll want to change it out as soon as possible. Still, many factors influence how long you can and should drive on a spare tire, including what kind of spare your vehicle includes. A full-size spare provides the longest life, but most space-saver spares require replacement at around 70 miles. Here, Haggerty Buick GMC explores some of the factors that directly impact how long you can drive on a spare tire.

How Spare Tire Type Affects Tire Safety

The kind of spare tire you have on your Buick Enclave or other GM vehicle will affect its life. Space-saver tires and full-size spares, specifically, differ quite a bit. Run-flat tires can also be used in place of a spare.

How Long Space-Saver Spare Tires Last

Picture this: you’re driving through VILLA PARK, and you get a flat. You go to search for your spare tire, and you see, instead of a normal wheel and tire, something about half its size. What you’re looking at is a space-saver spare tire. This type of spare, more commonly referred to as a donut, has several limitations. For instance, it:

• Has a maximum speed rating of 50 mph
• Should not, under any circumstances, be driven more than 70 miles
• Provides far less traction than a normal full-size spare

Any additional limitations should be listed directly on your spare tire. If in doubt about how long to drive on your space-saver, head to the nearest Chicago-area tire service center to repair your current tire or to buy a new one.

How Long Full-Size Spare Tires Last

Though many new cars now include space-saver spare tires, some new SUVs and trucks still include full-size spare tires. While this type of spare lasts longer than the average donut (a maximum of seven to ten years), it’s still a best-practice to get it replaced ASAP. That’s in part due to the fact that full-size spares can reduce your vehicle’s overall handling and traction. Visit Haggerty Buick GMC your full-size spare in VILLA PARK.

What are Run-Flat Tires?

Some new vehicles are equipped with neither a full-size spare nor a space-saver spare. Such vehicles are usually equipped with run-flat tires. What are these types of tires? They can survive a puncture and still maintain pressure for a certain amount of time and distance, due to heavy metal ribbing inside the tire’s interior. Here are some notable features of run-flats:

• Run-flats can be driven for up to around 50 miles after a puncture
• Run-flats provide more durability than other types of spares

What do you do if you’re driving on run-flat tires, or RFTs, and you notice your tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) light turn on?

1. Stop your car.
2. Inspect your tires.
3. If you see any punctures, head to your local tire repair center near Lombard.

Take Advantage of Our New Tire Specials

Here at Haggerty Buick GMC, we know that tire issues can cause a great deal of stress. Often, blowouts and flat tires occur out-of-the-blue and involve unexpected expenses. We hope to mitigate this stress and expense by providing you with rebates and specials on new tires. From GM tire rebates to Michelin and Continental tire rebates, we’re committed to providing a wide assortment of money-saving efforts designed to help you save when it’s time to put new treads on your vehicle.

Get Additional Tire Care Tips with Haggerty Buick GMC

Still have questions about how long you can drive on a spare? Contact Haggerty Buick GMC today! We’re conveniently located near Wheaton and offer a wide range of new tires from various brands like Continental, Michelin, and more. We also provide Buick and GMC accessories and performance parts.