How many kilometers can a spare tire be driven?
2 Answers
There is no mileage limit for a car's spare tire, but a non-full-size spare tire cannot be used for an extended period. After using a non-full-size spare tire, it should be replaced promptly. When a smaller non-full-size spare tire is installed, due to differences in friction coefficients, ground adhesion, and tire pressure among the four tires, prolonged use can negatively impact the vehicle's braking system, steering system, and suspension system, posing safety risks. Full-size spare tires do not have this issue. Spare tires are actually for emergency use and are not designed for long-term use. Regardless of width, manufacturers have specific production and usage requirements for spare tires. Since spare tires are not continuously used on the vehicle and do not experience wear, an unworn tire differs significantly from a heavily worn one. Using a spare tire on the vehicle inherently carries certain safety risks.
I just used the spare tire, and that thing is definitely not a long-term solution. It's basically only good for about 80 to 160 kilometers, with a maximum speed not exceeding 80 km/h. Spare tires are usually simplified in design, with thin treads and poor-quality materials. Driving too far or too fast can cause overheating and lead to a blowout, which is too risky. Once I tried going 100 km/h on the highway and felt severe shaking in the car. Later, I looked it up and learned it could affect the suspension or even damage the chassis. For safety, after installing the spare tire, get to a repair shop as soon as possible to switch back to a regular tire—ideally within 50 kilometers. Always keep a pressure gauge in the car to check tire pressure, which helps avoid emergencies. In the long run, ignoring these limits only increases repair costs or the chance of accidents.
