How Long Can You Drive on a Spare Tire?

  • 2019 Honda Accord Rear

    How Long Can You Drive on a Spare Tire?

    Did you end up with a flat? Are you wondering, “How long can I drive on a spare?” or “How far can I drive on a spare tire?” The actual mileage amount depends on what kind of spare you have, but you’ll want to replace your spare tire as soon as possible. A full-size spare gives you more time and mileage, but most smaller space-saver tires need to be replaced within 70 miles at most. Find out how long you can safely navigate Woodinville on your spare below!

How Far Can I Drive on a Spare Tire?: Space Saver 

Let’s say you’re out on the road near Redmond and you get a flat. If you find that your spare is smaller than your normal tires, you have a space-saver spare, or “donut” spare. They’re included on many new vehicles and come with certain restrictions:

  • Cannot be driven over 50 miles per hour
  • Shouldn’t be driven for more than 70 miles
  • Less traction than with a full-size spare

Your space-saver spare will list any additional usage restrictions on the tire itself. You’ll want to get to the nearest service center quickly to repair your old tire or purchase a new one.

How Far Can I Drive on a Spare Tire?: Full-Size Spare

Full-size spares aren’t as common, but they can usually be found in new trucks and SUVs. While this type of spare can be used longer than a space-saver spare, you’ll still want to get the tire replaced as soon as possible. It’s unlikely that it’s the same brand as your other tires, and that can cause poor traction and handling. And since it’s brand new, it won’t have the same amount of wear as the other tires. Visit the Honda of Kirkland tire center and we find a replacement that will be a better fit.

How Many Times Can You Use a Spare Tire?

Another important question to ask is: how many times can you use a spare tire? While there’s not an exact number of times it can be used, you’ll want to be sure to properly maintain your spare so it lasts as long as possible. Just because you’re driving with a spare tire does not mean it’s the proper replacement. Using it sparsely will ensure it lasts around 8 years as spare tires should. 

What is a Run-Flat Tire?

A run-flat tire can maintain pressure even after it has been punctured. These tires offer the following advantages and disadvantages:

  • Remains inflated for about 50 miles following a puncture
  • Tougher than a space-saver tire or full-size spare
  • Often costs more than a standard tire

If you have run-flat tires and your tire pressure monitor shows that it’s running low, you’ll want to pull over and inspect your tires. If you spot a puncture on your run-flat tire, you’ll want to head to your local Woodinville-area service center to repair or replace it when you schedule a service appointment today!

2019 Honda Fit

Get More Tire Care Advice From Honda of Kirkland

For more helpful information on tires or even how to enter a Honda radio code, contact Honda of Kirkland, located a short drive from Seattle. We can help you find tires that meet your driving needs or answer your questions about tire care! Learn more about to keep your tires in top shape, check out our breakdown of the different tire number meanings.


Our Service Specials

We are currently updating our Specials. Please check back soon.


More From Honda of Kirkland

  • 2026 Honda Accord Hybrid vs. Toyota Camry Hybrid

      When it comes to midsize sedans, the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry are two of the most popular models on Eastside roads. Both have a hard-earned reputation for quality, reliability, spaciousness, and efficiency. Drivers wanting to step up to a hybrid for their daily commutes into Seattle and weekend drives out to Snoqualmie Pass…

  • 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid Interior

      The 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid interior delivers a perfect blend of comfort, versatility, and advanced design for your daily drives around the Eastside. Whether you’re navigating the morning commute down I-405, heading down to Kirkland Urban for dinner, or packing up for a weekend getaway to the Cascades, this compact SUV offers a cabin…

  • 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid Performance

      The new Honda CR-V Hybrid SUV gives you more with every Kirkland drive, from its distinctive sport styling to its highly responsive 204-hp powertrain. And with up to 43 mpg city/36 mpg highway*, you’ll be able to go further than you thought possible—whether you’re running errands around Kirkland Urban or heading out for a…

Honda of Kirkland
Disclaimers: 0% APR financing available on select New In-Stock Honda Models with 36 monthly payments of $27.78 per $1000 borrowed. Must be requested at time of sale. The maximum amount to finance cannot exceed $20,000. The total of all payments will vary depending on the vehicle purchase price. See the dealer for more information. On approval of credit. Cannot be combined with any other form of discount. A negotiable documentary service fee in an amount up to $200 may be added to the sale price or capitalized cost of the vehicle. 0% APR financing was bought down by Honda of Kirkland. The original rate was 2.49% APR financing on new 2026 Honda CR-V and 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid models. APR rate may affect the sale price of the vehicle. Offer valid 6/26/26 – 7/6/26.

ENTER TO WIN. GAS FOR THE SUMMER! NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Must be a resident of Washington 18+ to participate. Employees of the dealership, affiliated companies, and their immediate family members are not eligible. A purchase, payment, or test drive is not required to enter or win. One free entry available to all eligible participants. Participants may receive one additional bonus entry by completing a test drive of an eligible vehicle during the promotion period. Maximum of two entries per person (1 free + 1 bonus test drive) Odds of winning depend on the total number of eligible entries received. Promotion Dates: 6/26/26 - 7/6/26. See dealer for Official Rules.
† WA Residents: A negotiable documentary service fee in an amount up to $200 may be added to the sale price or capitalized cost of the vehicle.
No mobile information will be shared with third parties or affiliates for marketing or promotional purposes. All other categories exclude text messaging originator opt-in data and consent; this information will not be shared with any third parties.

Saved Vehicles

You don't have any saved vehicles!

Look for this Save icon

Once you've saved some vehicles, you can view them here at any time.

Menu

Get Directions

12420 NE 85th St, Kirkland, WA, 98033
Honda of Kirkland 47.6798067, -122.1753462.