Most vehicles manufactured today come with a compact spare tire, but not all, so it is wise to invest in one if your vehicle is without. Flat tires never happen when you expect it, so a spare can truly come in handy when you need to get back on the road fast. Not all spare tires are the same, but they all perform the same duty: to get your vehicle to a mechanic or tire shop as safely and effectually as possible. There are a few rules to driving on a compact spare that every car owner should know in case the situation ever arises. Understanding and following these proper guidelines protects you, your passengers, and other drivers on the road. Continue reading to learn some helpful tips for driving on a compact spare tire and more.

Spare Tires

Spare tires are specially-designed to be smaller and more compact in order to conserve space and weight inside vehicles. Because they are smaller in size, and have narrower tread and reduced tread depth, they are not meant for long-term use. In fact, most owner’s manuals will limit driving on a spare to under 50 miles; but more accurately, a spare should never be driven on longer than it takes to get to a tire store or service station. They are intended to be temporary means of regaining mobility of your vehicle in order to seek out tire replacement services. Not only is extended driving on spares unsafe, it is damaging to a vehicle’s driveline and more.

Here are some important tips for driving with a spare tire on:

• Refer to owners’ manual for manufacturer instructions
• Always maintain cold tire inflation pressure of 60psi
• Check tire pressure regularly and before each use
• Inspect the tire and tire sidewalls for punctures, nicks, and other damages before each use
• Never exceed 50 MPH – Avoid highways, but if you have to, drive in the right lane with hazard lights on
• Keep at least 3 car lengths driving distance between other vehicles
• It’s best to store spare tires in the vehicle’s trunk or cabin – or on the outside of the vehicle (SUV’s)
• Drive and maneuver carefully
• Be sure to learn how to change a flat tire!
• Call a local roadside assistance company if you have trouble with your spare tire

A local well-established roadside assistance company offers a wide range of services. Aside from flat tire changes, they generally offer towing, jump starts, lockouts, and more. Be sure to call a trusted roadside assistance company with extensive experience and good customer reviews. This will ensure you get the best service at the fairest price.

Indianapolis Roadside Assistance

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for prompt and professional roadside assistance services in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties. Since 1927, Zore’s Towing has been family owned and operated company passionate about safe wrecker and recovery service.