How Long Can You Drive on a Spare Tire?

Having a spare tire can definitely help you out of a jam if you experience a puncture or damage to one of your tires, however it is important to remember that a spare is only intended to be used for a limited amount of time. How long can you drive on a spare tire? It depends on the type of spare tire you have. A full-size spare will typically allow you to drive for a longer amount of time before you need to have it replaced. How long can I drive on a spare tire if it is a space-saver spare? These types of spare tires are safe to drive on for only about 70 miles. Learn more in this guide from the experts at MINI of Warwick. If you are in need of tire repair or replacement near Providence, RI, head on down to our tire center in Warwick.

How Long Can You Drive on a Space-Saver Spare?

Many new vehicles come with a space-saver spare, sometimes referred to as a “donut spare”. A space-saver spare is much smaller than a full-size spare and is intended to be used temporarily in the case of an emergency. How long can I drive on a spare if it is a space-saver tire? The spare should have a label on it that will tell you how many miles it should be driven on. You can also consult your owner’s manual for specifics regarding your space-save spare. Here are some important things to know about space-saver tires:

• They cannot be driven over 50 miles per hour
• They shouldn’t be driven for more than 70 miles
• They will provide less traction than with a full-size spare

As you can see, it is very important that you replace your space-saver spare promptly to ensure your safety on the roads in and around Cranston, RI. We recommend that you schedule an appointment with our service department in Warwick to have your old tire repaired or to have a new one installed as soon as possible.

How Long Can You Drive on a Full-Size Spare

Full-size spare tires have been phased out with most new cars and currently tend to be included only with new trucks and SUVs. How long can I drive on a spare tire if it is a full-size spare? Your full-size spare will allow you to drive for a longer period of time, but could be a different brand, have a different tread pattern, or have more tread wear than the rest of the tires, which could have a negative effect on traction and handling. For that reason, it is a good idea to have the tire replaced in a timely fashion.

What is a Run-Flat Tire?

Most of the models in the new MINI Cooper inventory at MINI of Warwick come with run-flat tires that are designed to maintain pressure after a puncture. However, you’ll find that the miles on your spare run-flat tire are limited. Here’s what you should keep in mind about run-flat spares:

• They typically remain inflated for only 50 miles following a puncture 
• They are tougher than a space-saver tire or full-size spare
• They often cost more than a standard tire

For Professional Tire Care Choose MINI of Warwick

How long can you drive on a spare tire? Whether you have had to use a full-size, space-saver, or run-flat spare, you should look to have it replaced as soon as you can. If you’re looking for tire repair, need new tires for your MINI Cooper, or are due for your next tire rotation near Newport, RI, you can count on the MINI of Warwick. Make sure to check out our rotating service specials and coupons to see how much you can save on your next MINI Cooper service. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact our service team.