What happens if you go over 50 miles an hour on a spare tire?
Driving over 50 miles per hour on a spare tire can be extremely dangerous and should be avoided whenever possible. Spare tires, also known as "donut" tires, are not designed for high-speed or long-distance driving, and using them in this way can lead to serious safety risks and potential vehicle damage.
Why Spare Tires Have Speed Limitations
Spare tires are typically much smaller and have a thinner tread depth than a regular tire. This design is intended to provide a temporary solution for getting a vehicle to a repair shop, not for extended high-speed driving. The reduced size and tread depth of a spare tire can make it more susceptible to blowouts, uneven wear, and loss of traction, especially at higher speeds.
Risks of Driving Over 50 MPH on a Spare
- Increased Likelihood of Tire Failure: The reduced structural integrity of a spare tire means it is more likely to experience a blowout or other catastrophic failure at high speeds, which can lead to a loss of control of the vehicle.
- Reduced Handling and Stability: The smaller size and different construction of a spare tire can affect the vehicle's handling, braking, and overall stability, making it more difficult to control, especially at high speeds.
- Potential Damage to the Vehicle: Driving at high speeds on a spare tire can put excessive stress on the vehicle's suspension, steering, and other components, potentially leading to further damage and costly repairs.
It is important to note that the specific speed limit for a spare tire can vary depending on the manufacturer and the tire itself, so it is always best to consult the vehicle's owner's manual or the tire's sidewall for the recommended maximum speed.
Proper Use of Spare Tires
The safest way to use a spare tire is to drive at a reduced speed, typically no more than 50 miles per hour, and only for a short distance to reach a tire repair shop or a location where the regular tire can be replaced. Exceeding the recommended speed and distance limits for a spare tire can compromise the safety of the vehicle and its occupants.
Can you go over 50 mph with a spare tire?
Myth: You can drive normally on a smaller-sized spare tire. Fact: The spare tire enables you to drive to the nearest repair shop to have the flat tire inspected and either repaired or replaced. You should not drive over 50 mph and no more than 50 miles with a donut-type spare tire.
What happens if you drive more than 50 miles on a spare tire?
Your spare tire would likely wear out before causing any significant damage to the car's transmission. However, your safety is at risk the longer you drive on a spare tire. Driving on a temporary spare decreases your stopping power and overall control, and it increases the likelihood of skidding and hydroplaning.
What is the 50/50 rule for spare tires?
We're here to help explain how long you can drive on a spare tire along with some other safety tips to keep in mind. After you've replaced your defective tire with a temporary spare, it's important to remember the rule of 50. You shouldn't drive more than 50 miles on a temporary tire or go faster than 50 mph.
Can you drive the speed limit with a spare tire?
Space-Saver Spare Tires aka "Donut" Spare Ties
The limits of a space-saver spare tire are: Speed limit of 50 miles per hour. Shouldn't be driven more than 70 miles.
