When to Change a Spare Tire

Everyone · Explainer · Updated October 1, 2026 · LearnLife Editorial

What Exactly Is a Spare Tire and How Does It Work?

A spare tire is an extra tire stored in your vehicle to replace a flat or damaged tire temporarily. Unlike your regular tires, spares are not designed for long-term driving. Most cars carry a compact spare tire, often called a “donut,” which is smaller and lighter than regular tires to save space. Some vehicles have a full-size spare tire, which matches the size of your regular tires but still should only be used temporarily.

Spare tires work by physically replacing the flat or damaged tire, allowing your vehicle to roll safely to a service center. For example, if you are driving and suddenly notice your tire losing air or hear a thumping noise, pulling over safely and replacing the faulty tire with your spare can prevent accidents. The spare supports your car’s weight but usually has speed and distance restrictions—commonly a maximum of 50 miles per hour and limited driving distance, often under 70 miles—so you can reach a tire repair shop.

Since spares are often smaller or different in tread design, they can affect the handling and braking of your vehicle. That’s why they should be used only as a temporary fix until you can repair or replace your regular tire.

When Should You Change to a Spare Tire?

You should change to a spare tire immediately if your regular tire is flat, punctured, or visibly damaged to the point that it cannot safely support your car. Signs include:

• A tire rapidly losing air pressure, making the car pull to one side or vibrate.
• A tire that is visibly flat or has a large puncture or tear.
• Hearing thumping noises or feeling instability while driving.

If you notice any of these signs, safely pull over to the side of the road as soon as possible. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. Do not continue driving on a flat or damaged tire as this can damage your wheel rims and may cause a loss of control.

Changing to a spare tire allows you to drive slowly and carefully to a nearby repair shop. For example, if you are on a highway and get a flat tire, pulling over and replacing the tire with your spare can keep you safe and prevent the need for a tow.

Can You Change a Spare Tire Yourself? What Does It Take?

Many people can change a spare tire themselves if they have the right tools, knowledge, and physical ability. The key tools you need are:

• A jack to lift the vehicle.
• A lug wrench to loosen and tighten the lug nuts.
• The spare tire itself, in good condition and properly inflated.

Here is a clear step-by-step example of how to change a tire:

1. Find a safe, flat location to park your car away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights.
2. Apply the parking brake and place wheel wedges or blocks to prevent the car from rolling.
3. Remove the hubcap or wheel cover if your car has one.
4. Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts slightly before lifting the car.
5. Position the jack under the vehicle frame near the flat tire, following your car manual instructions.
6. Raise the vehicle with the jack until the flat tire is about six inches off the ground.
7. Remove the loosened lug nuts completely and take off the flat tire.
8. Mount the spare tire by aligning it with the lug bolts, then hand-tighten the lug nuts.
9. Lower the vehicle carefully back to the ground using the jack.
10. Use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts fully in a star pattern to ensure even pressure.
11. Replace the hubcap if it fits on your spare tire.
12. Check the spare tire pressure and inflate if necessary before driving.

If you find any step challenging or unsafe, it is better to call roadside assistance. Practicing these steps in a safe environment before an emergency helps build confidence.

Why Does Knowing When to Change a Spare Tire Matter?

Using a spare tire properly is critical for your safety and your vehicle’s condition. Driving on a flat or damaged tire can cause the vehicle to lose control, damage the wheels, or harm the suspension system, leading to costly repairs or accidents.

Spare tires, especially compact donuts, have limits in speed and distance—often not exceeding 50 miles per hour and typically meant for no more than 70 miles of driving. Ignoring these limits can cause the spare to fail, leaving you stranded or risking an accident.

For example, if you replace a flat tire with a donut spare and then drive at highway speeds for a long distance, you risk overheating or damaging the spare tire. This makes it crucial to plan to get your regular tire repaired or replaced quickly.

Knowing when to change your spare also means regularly checking its air pressure and condition. A flat or damaged spare is useless when you need it most.

What Are Common Misunderstandings About Spare Tires?

Many people confuse spare tires with regular tires or believe spares can be used indefinitely. Unlike regular tires, spares often have less tread, a smaller size, and reduced durability. Using a spare tire as a permanent replacement can cause uneven wear and damage to your car’s drivetrain or braking system.

Another common confusion is mixing up spare tires with run-flat tires. Run-flat tires are designed to let you keep driving a limited distance after a puncture without changing tires immediately. A spare tire, by contrast, physically replaces the flat tire.

Some drivers also assume that the spare tire automatically inflates itself or never needs checking. However, spare tires lose pressure over time just like regular tires and should be checked regularly.

How Can You Make Sure Your Spare Tire Is Ready When You Need It?

To ensure your spare tire is ready, check it regularly—at least every three months or before long trips. Here’s what to do:

• Use a tire pressure gauge to check the air pressure. Your vehicle’s manual will list the recommended pressure for the spare, which is often higher than regular tires.
• Inspect the spare for cracks, dry rot, or other visible damage.
• Check the tread depth, even on compact spares, to make sure it has enough grip.
• Confirm that your jack, lug wrench, and any other tools are present and in good working order.
• Verify you know where the spare tire is located and how to access it in your vehicle.

If your spare tire is old, damaged, or underinflated, replace or repair it before you get stranded. Keeping your spare ready is a simple but important step toward roadside safety.

What Should You Do After Installing a Spare Tire?

After changing to a spare tire, drive carefully and slowly. Avoid highways or high speeds, especially if you have installed a donut spare, which is not designed for extended use.

Plan to get your regular tire repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Waiting too long to fix or replace the original tire can cause problems with your vehicle’s alignment, handling, or safety.

Also, after driving on a spare, have a professional check the lug nuts for tightness and inspect the spare tire. Over-tightening or improper installation can cause wheel vibration or damage.

For example, if you replaced a flat tire with a spare at noon, aim to visit a tire shop the same day or the next morning to fix the problem. Once your regular tire is repaired, reinstall it, and replace the spare tire back in its storage spot.

How Can You Prepare for Changing a Spare Tire in Advance?

Preparation makes changing a spare tire easier and safer. Here are practical steps to get ready:

• Read your vehicle’s owner manual to learn the location of your spare tire, jack, and tools.
• Practice changing a tire in a safe, dry location with a helper to get familiar with the process.
• Keep your tools organized and in good condition inside your car.
• Carry a flashlight, gloves, and reflective safety vest to improve visibility and safety, especially at night or on busy roads.
• Store a printed or digital tire-changing guide in your vehicle.
• Know your insurance or roadside assistance coverage for flat tire help.

By preparing ahead of time, you reduce stress and can handle a flat tire confidently and safely.

Frequently asked questions

Can I drive long distances on a spare tire?

No, spare tires, especially compact donut spares, are designed for temporary use only. They typically should not be driven more than about 70 miles and at speeds no faster than 50 mph. Use them only to reach a tire repair shop for a permanent fix.

How often should I check my spare tire’s pressure?

It’s best to check your spare tire’s pressure at least every three months or before long trips. Spare tires can lose air over time, and underinflated spares may fail when you need them.

What if my car doesn’t have a spare tire?

Some newer vehicles don’t come with a spare but may include tire repair kits or run-flat tires. If you don’t have a spare, carry a tire inflator kit, and be prepared to call roadside assistance if you get a flat.

Is it safe for beginners to change a tire themselves?

Changing a tire can be done safely by most beginners with practice, the right tools, and following detailed instructions. If you feel unsure or unsafe, call roadside assistance instead. Practicing the steps in advance helps build skill and confidence.

What tools are essential for changing a tire?

Essential tools include a jack to lift the car, a lug wrench to loosen and tighten lug nuts, and the spare tire. Additional helpful items are a flashlight, gloves, a reflective vest, and wheel wedges to secure the car.