How Long Can You Drive on a Spare Tire?

If you’ve ever dealt with a flat tire near Marrero, you have probably asked, “How long can you drive on a spare tire?” Ideally, you would be able to get a new tire right away, but that is not always possible. How long you can drive on a spare depends on which type of spare tire you have. A full-size spare will offer longer life, but most spare tires can be driven for 70 miles at most. Discover more spare tire safety tips with Ray Brandt Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram near Gretna today!

Space-Saver Spare Tire

If you go to replace your flat tire and notice that the new tire seems smaller than normal, you likely have a space-saver spare. Known commonly as “donut” spares, these efficient life-savers can be quite handy but do come with some important restrictions to be aware of:

• These tires cannot be driven over 50 miles per hour, so highways should be avoided
• Refrain from driving a space-saver spare over 70 miles 
• Donut spares have less traction than normal, so show extra caution while driving with one

You are probably wondering how much a new tire will cost if you’ve ever asked, “How long can I drive on a spare? We offer service coupons year-round to help you save while replacing a tire.  

Full-Size Spare

If you have brought home a truck or SUV from our new inventory, you will likely find a full-size spare when it is time to replace a flat. While this tire will offer more longevity, it will not match the rest of your set. The brand will likely be different which can cause poor traction and handling. We recommend visiting our tire center to get a new matching tire as soon as you can for optimal handling. 

What is a Run-Flat Tire?

A run-flat tire is unique and is able to maintain pressure even after a puncture has occurred. This novelty brings some distinct advantages and disadvantages for drivers:

• Maintains pressure for up to 50 miles after a puncture
• Much more durable than a space-saver or even a full-sized spare
• Can often be quite expensive, costing more than most standard tires

Take Care of Your Tires in Harvey

Still have lingering questions about, “How long can I drive on a spare?” Contact us today and we will be happy to help! Our service team is outfitted with tire experts who can help you with any issues you may experience. Stop wondering how long can you drive on a spare tire, and bring peace of mind to your New Orleans commute when you visit us in Harvey.

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