If you have ever had the misfortune of experiencing a flat tire, or a blowout, then you can appreciate the importance of carrying a spare tire. When driving on a long journey, carrying a spare tire is absolutely vital, as you may not otherwise be able to get immediate mechanical assistance. A spare tire, however, is not a permanent replacement for a damaged tire. So how long can you drive on a spare tire? DCH Kay Honda has the answer.
It is worth remembering that a spare tire is not the same as a regular one because it’s not as durable. Spare tires have fewer layers of steel and polyester beneath the rubber, which means they won’t last as long. This is good news, generally speaking, because it means that you are carrying less weight in the rear of the car since the spare takes up less room. But it also means that in the event of a crisis, you can only use the spare for a certain amount of time.
A spare tire will have a smaller contact surface with the road, because it is narrower. This increases your stopping distance, and makes an emergency stop much riskier. Other functions of your car, such as anti-lock brakes and traction control are going to be less efficient too. If you use the spare tire for too long, then you run the risk of causing damage to other parts of the car, which are optimized for a regular, full-size tire.
As a general rule, you should only drive on a spare tire for the shortest distance possible. Use the spare to drive to the next available place where you will be able to get mechanical assistance and purchase a replacement tire. In any case, the spare is only there to get you out of an emergency situation.
For further information regarding spare tire life, refer to your owner’s manual, where the limit of use for your spare tire will be documented. If you are a long way from our service center, then you may have to look for alternative means of transportation, such as a tow truck, if the minimum distance is greater than the safe limit stated in the manual.
If in doubt, a skilled mechanic will always be able to give you the best advice for your car. Contact us for further assistance.
