How many kilometers can a car's spare tire run?
4 Answers
Car tires with non-full-size spare tires can run for 50 kilometers. Car spare tires are generally divided into full-size spare tires and non-full-size spare tires. Full-size spare tires are the same size as regular tires and have no mileage limit, but they must be driven at a lower speed. Non-full-size spare tires have a slightly smaller diameter and width compared to the other four tires, and can only be used as a temporary replacement. They should only be used on non-driving wheels, and the maximum speed should not exceed 80 km/h. Run-flat tires, also known as safety tires, compared to regular tires, do not leak air or leak very slowly when punctured, maintaining the driving profile.
Having driven various car models for many years, I can say that a spare tire is an emergency design and definitely not meant for long-term use. Generally speaking, a spare tire, especially the small temporary type, can only cover a distance of about 80 to 100 kilometers at most. Also, don’t drive too fast—it’s recommended to keep the speed below 80 km/h. Going too fast can cause the tire to overheat and deform, affecting stability. I once drove 70 kilometers on a spare tire to a repair shop and felt the car was very unstable. Upon inspection, the tire had already shown slight wear. Safety first—always repair or replace the original tire promptly after using the spare. Don’t forget to check the spare tire’s pressure and condition monthly to ensure it’s ready when needed, which can help avoid emergencies on the road.
I'm a commuter, and last year I had a tire blowout on the highway. I relied on the spare tire to get to the city center, which was only about 30 kilometers. The official recommended distance for a spare tire is just 50 miles, approximately 80 kilometers, so you shouldn't push it too far. Driving fast causes a lot of noise and makes the steering wheel shake—I only dared to go 60 mph that time. Experienced friends say running over 100 kilometers might ruin the tire or even cause another blowout. It's advised to remember that a spare tire is only a temporary solution. After putting it on, immediately navigate to the nearest repair shop. Regularly check and inflate the spare tire to ensure it's reliable in critical moments.
As a mother with a child at home, safety is my top priority. It is recommended to drive no more than 80 kilometers on a spare tire, as higher speeds can make the car unstable and uncomfortable for the child. During my last suburban trip when I had a flat tire, I only drove 40 kilometers before stopping because the spare tire was not full-sized, wears out quickly, and is unsafe for long distances. Always keep the spare tire pressure at the specified value to avoid problems when you need it. Drive to a repair shop immediately to get a new tire installed, and don’t risk driving on the highway with a spare.
