How Long Can You Drive on a Spare Tire?

How long can you drive on a spare tire? While different types of spares have different limits, a maximum of 70 miles is the most common. In general, it’s best to avoid pushing your limits: spare tires are designed to get you to the nearest tire center or service department; they’re not effective substitutes for the real deal.

How Long Can You Drive on a Spare Tire: Space-Saver Spare

Space-saver spares, also known as “donut” spares, are the most common type of spare tires available today. If you get a flat tire on the roads near Mclean or Great Falls, you can identify this type of spare tire by its size: it will be smaller than all the others. Here’s what else you should keep in mind:

• Donut spares should never be used for more than 70 miles.
• These spares should never be driven over 50 miles per hour.
• Space-saver spares offer less traction than normal tires.

If you need to pick up a replacement tire, head straight to our tire center in Vienna, VA. You can reach us–even on a donut spare–from just about anywhere in the area.

How Long Can You Drive on a Spare Tire: Full-Size Spare

Some larger SUVs and trucks include a full-size spare tire. While these tires are more reliable than their space-saver counterparts, they will also need to be switched out at the earliest opportunity.  Full-size spare tires will differ from your other tires in important ways–and especially in tread depth. Major tread depth differences can have a negative impact on your traction and handling, so get into Mercedes-Benz of Tysons Corner as soon as possible. No matter what kind of spare tire you’re using, you’ll want to make sure that it’s filled to the proper air pressure before installing it on your vehicle.

What is a Run-Flat Tire?

Run-flat tires allow you to drive for up to 50 miles after a puncture–without installing a spare tire. If you’ve equipped your vehicle with run-flat tires, you’ll enjoy greater convenience in the event of a flat. Of course, some limitations still apply:

• You’ll still need to replace the punctured tire within a short period of time.
• Run-flat tires generally cost more than other types of tires.

If your run-flat tire is punctured, your tire pressure monitor should let you know. Get out and inspect the damage, then proceed to a service center with caution.

We’re Your Source for Mercedes-Benz Tires

Still wondering, “How long can I drive on a spare tire?” With Mercedes-Benz of Tysons Corner in your corner, you’ll never need to find out. If you’re looking for a new tire (or a whole new set), explore our parts specials before visiting our Vienna dealership, just a short drive from Chantilly.