Is it bad to drive on the spare tire?

Concerns & risks

You were trying to get by after a flat tire, but a week later you're still cruising around on that tiny donut spare.

Compact spares aren't made for long distances or high speeds.

Causes & evidence

Temporary spares have speed and distance limits printed on them or in your manual. See tire pressure and tread.

What to do

1. Check the spare's speed limit (often lower than highway speed).
2. Replace or repair the regular tire soon.
3. Check spare pressure regularly.

Common mistakes: Common mistakes: driving the spare at highway speeds or for long trips. Compact spares have less tread and different handling. Another mistake is forgetting the spare's pressure, which can be higher than regular tires; check the sidewall or manual. Some cars have no spare but a repair kit instead, so know what you have before you need it. Get the original tire repaired or replaced soon, and put the spare back in the trunk properly secured.

Speed Man tip: Check your spare's pressure monthly too.

Wrap-up: Spares are temporary. Mind the speed limit. Fix the real tire fast.