Can you drive with a donut tire for 2 days?

Yes, you can drive on a donut tire for a short period such as two days, but only if you stay within the tire’s rated speed and distance limits and plan to replace it with a proper tire as soon as possible. Donut spares are designed for temporary use, not long-distance travel.

Understanding the temporary spare (donut) and its limits

This section explains what a donut tire is, why its limits matter, and how it differs from a full-size tire.

• Donut tires are smaller, lighter, and have less tread than a regular tire, which affects handling and traction.


• Most donuts are rated for a maximum speed around 50 mph (80 km/h). Some models may allow slightly higher speeds, but you should check the sidewall or owner’s manual for the exact limit on your spare.


• Distance limits are common as well—many temporary spares are intended for roughly 50–100 miles (80–160 km), though some variants may specify different ranges. Always read the tire’s sidewall for the exact guidance.


• Driving on a donut affects braking, acceleration, cornering, and ride quality. Your vehicle’s ABS, traction control, and steering may behave differently with a spare.


• Donuts are meant to get you to a repair shop or tire replacement, not to be used as a substitute for a regular tire over the long term.

Concluding note: Always verify the exact limits printed on your donut’s sidewall and follow them closely. If you’re unsure, err on the side of caution and avoid long trips.

Can a two-day drive on a donut be safe?

In many cases, a two-day drive can be managed if you stay within the spare’s limits and take sensible precautions. The safety and practicality depend on the specific spare, your route, traffic, weather, and vehicle load. If your planned two days would exceed the spare’s stated distance or you anticipate high-speed highway travel, you should seek a tire replacement sooner rather than later.

Practical steps for a two-day drive on a donut

Below is a practical framework to minimize risk when you need to cover a couple of days with a donut spare.

• Plan a route that minimizes high-speed highway miles and heavy traffic where possible, favoring slower roads and stops if you can.


• Keep the spare’s speed and distance limits in mind at all times. Do not exceed the maximum listed on the tire or in the owner's manual.


• Monitor tire pressure daily and keep the spare inflated to the pressure specified on the tire’s sidewall or in the vehicle manual.


• Avoid heavy loads, long hills, and aggressive driving (rapid acceleration, hard braking, or sharp turns) to reduce stress on the spare.


• Plan to replace the donut with a proper tire at the earliest opportunity—preferably at a tire shop or dealership—so you aren’t relying on the spare for an extended period.

Concluding note: The two-day plan should treat the donut as a temporary measure. If you find yourself needing to drive farther or under difficult conditions, arrange for tire service promptly.

There are a few extra points to consider when using a donut spare, especially if travel is imminent or extended.

• Check vehicle-specific guidance: Some cars have four-wheel-drive or electronic stability systems that react differently with a donut; consult your owner’s manual for any caveats.


• Be aware of weather and road conditions: Wet, icy, or uneven roads can magnify the limitations of a temporary spare.


• Donuts are not a substitute for proper maintenance: If your spare is damaged, expired, or poorly inflated, get it checked before any trip.

Concluding note: When in doubt, contact roadside assistance or a tire professional for advice tailored to your vehicle and touring plans.

Temporary donut spares are a convenient emergency solution but come with clear constraints. You can typically drive on a donut for short periods—often up to around 50 mph and a limited number of miles—so a two-day trip can be feasible if you stay within those limits, minimize high-speed driving, and arrange for a tire replacement as soon as possible. Always check the exact specifications printed on your donut, follow vehicle-specific guidance, and prioritize getting back to a standard tire to preserve safety and vehicle performance.

Can I leave a spare tire on for a week?

You can drive on a full-size spare tire for a week, but only on a temporary ("donut") spare if the total distance is less than 50 miles and you drive at or below 50 mph. For a donut spare, it's best to get a proper tire repaired or replaced as soon as possible, as it is only meant for emergency use and can cause stress and damage to your transmission or suspension over time. 
If you have a full-size spare

• Yes, you can drive for a week. A full-size spare is designed to be a long-term replacement, but it's still wise to get your original tire fixed or replaced in a timely manner. 
• Keep an eye on its condition. Be sure the spare has no damage and is properly inflated. 

If you have a temporary ("donut") spare 

• No, you should not drive for a week. These are for short-term, emergency use only. 
• Adhere to the 50/50 rule. Do not exceed 50 miles and 50 mph. 
• Get to a shop immediately. Drive directly to a tire shop or mechanic to have your original tire repaired or replaced as soon as possible. 

What happens if you drive 150 miles on a spare tire?

Also, the most you should drive on a temporary tire is around 50 miles or less if you can. If you drive too far on a temporary spare, you can not only end up with another flat but also damage your car.

How long can you have a donut tire?

Space-saver spares or donuts should be driven no more than 50 miles. If you've needed to use your spare, make an appointment at a tire shop or with a trusted mechanic as soon as possible. These temporary spares are usually not the same size as the rest of your tires.

How long can you realistically drive on a spare tire?

You can only drive on a "donut" spare tire for a short distance, typically a maximum of 50 miles at a speed of no more than 50 mph. Full-size spares can be driven much longer, but it is best to get your original tire repaired or replaced as soon as possible to avoid damage to your vehicle and maintain handling. 
For compact "donut" spare tires

• Distance: Do not drive more than 50 miles. Some sources suggest up to 70 miles, but 50 is a more conservative and safer recommendation. 
• Speed: Never exceed 50 mph. 
• Reason: These tires have a smaller surface area, reduced traction, and different handling characteristics compared to a regular tire, making them suitable only for temporary use to get to a repair shop. 

For full-size spare tires

• Distance: You can drive on these for a longer period, potentially thousands of miles, as they are designed to be a permanent replacement. However, they still have limitations. 
• Reason: Full-size spares have a reduced level of traction and handling compared to a standard tire and can dry rot if left unused for too long. 
• Recommendation: It is still best to replace the original tire as soon as possible. 

General safety tips for driving on any spare

• Check your owner's manual: Always refer to your car's manual for specific instructions and limitations for your vehicle. 
• Check the pressure: Ensure your spare tire is properly inflated before driving. 
• Avoid hard braking and sharp turns: Spare tires can affect your vehicle's handling, so drive more cautiously than you normally would. 
• Replace as soon as possible: The goal of using a spare is to get you to a shop to repair or replace your damaged tire. Driving on a spare for an extended period can cause further damage to your vehicle.