Spare tires can save you plenty of time when you’re stranded on the highway with a flat. They’ll let you drive for a little bit longer until you can find some help for your car. However, auto repair experts don’t recommend driving too far or fast. Here’s why you should replace your spare with a new tire ASAP.

What to Do When Your Tires Blow Out 

If you do get a flat out on the road, do your best to bring the car to a shoulder so that you won’t hinder traffic. Unless you know how to fix a flat or change to new tires, your best option would be to call a towing company for help. Many offer emergency roadside services, such as putting on your spare tire. They’ll also recommend repair shops so you can have your spare changed much sooner. 

Why You Shouldn’t Use the Spare for Too Long 

A spare is meant to serve as a temporary tire replacement. It wears out much faster because it is usually smaller and thinner than your regular tires. As such, the weight of your car will be unevenly distributed when driving, making the vehicle harder to handle. This problem will only worsen the longer you use it and will compromise your safety on the road.

How Far Can You Drive on Spare Tires? 

Your car manual will tell you the speed and distance you can go on your spare tire. However, most manufacturers recommend driving below 50mph and not covering more than 70 miles on the spare. Nonetheless, it’s best not to push the limit as doing so could cause damage to other parts of the car, like the suspension. 

Put the spare back in the trunk and get yourself a new set of tires at Anderson Automotive Repair. Since 1986, this company has provided car-owners in Cinncinati, OH, and surrounding areas with tire replacement, tire rotation, brake service, and engine replacement, among other services. If you’d like to schedule an auto appointment with their highly-skilled mechanics, send them a message via their website or call their office at (513) 474-4200.