A flat tyre can happen at the worst possible time. If you are travelling between cities, heading to the airport or simply driving through busy traffic, having a spare tyre can make the situation much easier to manage.
One type of spare tyre found in many vehicles is the space saver tyre. It is smaller and lighter than a standard road tyre and is designed to help you continue your journey after a puncture or tyre failure.
However, a space saver tyre is not designed to replace your normal tyre permanently. It should be treated as a temporary solution until the damaged tyre can be repaired or replaced.
What is a space saver tyre?
A space saver tyre is a temporary spare wheel designed to take up less space in a vehicle than a full-size spare.
Because it is smaller and usually lighter, it can leave more room in the boot for luggage and other items.
You may also hear it called a temporary spare tyre, compact spare or emergency spare.
Unlike your normal tyres, a space saver is generally designed for limited use and specific driving conditions.
Why do cars use space saver tyres?
The main reason is space.
A full-size spare tyre can take up a significant amount of boot space. A compact spare allows manufacturers to reduce the amount of room required for the spare wheel.
It can also reduce weight compared with carrying a full-size wheel and tyre.
This can be useful for drivers who want more luggage space, particularly when travelling with several passengers.
How long can you drive on a space saver tyre?
A space saver tyre is intended for temporary use.
The exact distance and speed limits depend on the tyre and vehicle. Many compact spares have a maximum speed marked clearly on the tyre sidewall.
You should never assume that a space saver can be driven at the same speed as your normal tyres.
Check the markings on the tyre and your vehicle handbook before continuing your journey.
The goal should be to get to a suitable tyre repair or replacement location rather than using the space saver for several days as though it were a normal tyre.
How fast can you drive with a space saver?
Check the speed marking on the space saver tyre.
Many temporary spare tyres have a lower maximum speed than standard road tyres. The manufacturer’s limit should always be followed, even if the road appears clear.
Driving too fast on a temporary spare can affect the vehicle’s handling, braking and stability.
If you are travelling on an unfamiliar road or dealing with heavy traffic, reduce your speed further when necessary and drive according to the road and weather conditions.
Can you use a space saver on any wheel?
No.
A space saver is designed for a particular vehicle and wheel position. It must have the correct size, bolt pattern, load rating and other specifications for the vehicle.
Some vehicles also have restrictions on which axle can use a temporary spare.
Do not assume that a space saver from another car will fit simply because the wheel appears similar.
Can you use a space saver tyre on the front?
This depends on the vehicle and the instructions supplied by the manufacturer.
Some vehicles have specific restrictions because a temporary spare can affect steering, braking or drivetrain operation.
This is particularly important for vehicles with four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive systems.
If the manufacturer’s instructions say the temporary spare should not be fitted to a particular axle, follow those instructions.
Can you use a space saver on a 4WD or AWD vehicle?
Extra care is required.
Some four-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive vehicles can be sensitive to differences in tyre diameter. A significantly different tyre circumference can place additional stress on the drivetrain.
If you have an AWD or 4WD vehicle, check the manufacturer’s instructions before using a space saver.
If you are unsure, get professional advice rather than guessing.
What does a space saver tyre feel like when driving?
A vehicle may feel different when fitted with a temporary spare.
You might notice changes in:
- Steering feel
- Cornering behaviour
- Braking response
- Ride comfort
- Traction
- Stability
These differences are another reason to drive carefully and avoid treating the temporary spare as a permanent replacement.
Sudden steering movements, aggressive cornering and hard braking should be avoided where possible.
Can you use a space saver on the motorway?
If the vehicle manufacturer permits its use, you may be able to continue on a motorway, but you must follow the speed limitation marked on the spare tyre and the vehicle’s instructions.
A motorway journey may also make it more important to get the damaged tyre repaired or replaced as soon as reasonably possible.
If the space saver has a lower speed rating, do not exceed it simply because surrounding traffic is moving faster.
Can you repair a space saver tyre?
In most cases, temporary spare tyres are not intended to be repaired in the same way as normal road tyres.
If the space saver itself is damaged, check the manufacturer’s guidance and have it inspected by a qualified tyre professional.
Do not attempt to extend the life of a damaged temporary spare just because it is only used occasionally.
What should you do after fitting a space saver?
Once the temporary spare is installed, check that it is properly secured and inflated according to the manufacturer’s specification.
Then:
- Drive carefully.
- Follow the speed restriction on the tyre.
- Avoid unnecessary long-distance driving.
- Get the original tyre inspected as soon as possible.
- Repair or replace the damaged tyre where appropriate.
- Refit the normal wheel when it is safe to do so.
- Return the space saver to its storage location.
Do not forget to check the spare itself periodically. A spare tyre that has been sitting in the boot for years can still lose pressure or deteriorate.
What if you get a puncture during a long trip?
If you are travelling between cities and experience a puncture, move to a safe location before attempting to change the wheel.
If you have a usable space saver, it can help you continue to a suitable tyre service point.
If you do not have a spare, or the tyre damage is too serious to continue safely, you may need roadside assistance or another transport arrangement.
For longer journeys, checking your tyres, spare wheel, tyre pressure and basic emergency equipment before leaving can save considerable stress later.
Space saver tyre vs full-size spare
The main difference is how each is intended to be used.
A full-size spare is generally closer to your normal road wheel and can often be used for longer periods, subject to the manufacturer’s instructions.
A space saver is smaller and lighter but is designed primarily as an emergency solution.
If your vehicle came with a space saver, do not replace your normal tyre with it permanently.
Should you keep a space saver in your car?
If your vehicle is designed to use one, keeping a properly maintained temporary spare can be extremely useful.
Before a long journey, check:
- Spare tyre pressure
- Jack
- Wheel wrench
- Wheel locking key, if applicable
- Spare wheel condition
- Manufacturer’s instructions
Knowing where these items are before a puncture occurs can save time when you are dealing with a stressful situation.
How Travo.ng can help with travel and mobility planning
A tyre problem can quickly disrupt a planned journey, airport transfer, delivery or interstate trip.
Travo.ng supports travel, transport and logistics needs, helping customers coordinate journeys and transportation when getting from one location to another matters.
Whether you are planning a long-distance trip or arranging transport around a vehicle issue, preparing ahead can reduce unnecessary delays.
A space saver tyre is useful because it gives you a temporary way to continue after a puncture. But it should remain exactly that: a temporary solution. Follow the tyre’s speed and usage restrictions, replace or repair the damaged road tyre promptly, and never assume that a compact spare can be driven like a normal tyre.
