Space Saver Tyres: Speed Limits, Motorways & Distance Rules
If you have just fitted a space saver tyre (the skinny, temporary spare wheel in your boot), you might be wondering how fast you can drive and how far it will actually get you.
Driving on a space saver completely changes the handling and braking distance of your vehicle. Here are the strict safety rules you must follow to avoid an accident or a fine.
1. How fast and how far can I drive on a space saver tyre?
The golden rule for space saver tyres is 50/50:
- Maximum Speed: 50 mph (80 km/h)
- Maximum Distance: 50 miles (80 km)
These tyres have a much smaller contact patch with the road. Exceeding 50 mph causes extreme heat buildup, which can lead to the temporary tyre blowing out—a highly dangerous scenario.
2. Can I drive on the motorway with a space saver?
Yes, but it is highly discouraged unless absolutely necessary. If you must use the motorway, you must stay in the left-hand lane and strictly adhere to the 50 mph limit. Because you will be traveling slower than heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), you become a hazard. Turn your hazard lights on if necessary and exit the motorway at the earliest safe opportunity.
3. Can I use a space saver tyre in the rain?
Space savers have minimal tread depth (usually around 3mm compared to 8mm on a new standard tyre). In wet conditions, they offer almost zero resistance against aquaplaning. If it is raining, you should reduce your speed to 30-40 mph and leave double the normal braking distance.
4. The Real Solution: Don’t Risk the Journey
A space saver is only designed to limp your car to the nearest garage. But if it’s Sunday, out-of-hours, or you are far from home, driving 50 miles at 50 mph is incredibly stressful.
You don’t have to drive on it. Rescue Fitter operates a 24/7 mobile tyre dispatch network. Instead of limping home on a dangerous temporary wheel, we can dispatch a local fitter directly to your driveway, workplace, or safe roadside location.
- Enter your registration on our site.
- We source your exact, factory-spec tyre.
- A vetted local fitter arrives and balances a brand-new tyre on the spot.