Dunlop Tyres SA’s leading technical tyre expert, Keith Phelps, said the compact 'biscuit' spare can pose serious risks to drivers, passengers, and other road users when used incorrectly or when not maintained.
“It’s not often that drivers need to haul out the spare tyre from the boot. For many cars, it’s the trusty little biscuit tyre – named for its size. While we may enjoy not using the spare tyre, it does not mean that we must ignore the tyre when times are good. As drivers, we must always prepare ourselves for emergencies, and that involves assessing our spare wheel regularly, as well as using it correctly, to avoid additional problems,” said Phelps.
The biscuit tyre, or space saver tyre, is designed to be a temporary emergency solution that enables a driver to get to the nearest service station or tyre shop to replace/repair the damaged tyre. These compact spares are smaller, narrower, and lighter than a standard tyre, which helps save space in the trunk. However, it’s these very limitations that make them unsafe for extended use.
The smaller tread surface area of a biscuit tyre/space saver tyre leads to less grip on the road surface, especially in wet or slippery conditions. This increases the risk of skidding or losing control of your vehicle – called aquaplaning or hydroplaning – on a wet road surface, particularly at high speeds or during sudden manoeuvres. Be aware of the road conditions and adjust your driving style.
Most biscuit spare tyres are designed for speeds of no more than 80km/h and should not be driven for more than 60 to 80 kilometres. Exceeding these limits can lead to blowouts, handling issues, and even tyre failure. Motorists, especially those driving on freeways and in peak traffic, need to exercise caution due to the volume and speed of traffic.
Because the spare is smaller and thinner than the other tyres, it alters the vehicle’s handling characteristics, affecting steering and braking performance. This becomes even more dangerous when driving on freeways, making emergency stops more difficult.
Driving on a spare for too long can cause uneven wear on the tyre and can result in additional stress being placed on the vehicle’s suspension system, leading to costly repairs. In vehicles with all-wheel or four-wheel drive, using a smaller spare can also put excessive strain on the drivetrain, potentially damaging the transmission.
“While a biscuit spare tyre can be a lifesaver in an emergency, it is not a long-term solution. Driving cautiously and replacing your damaged tyre as soon as possible can prevent accidents, vehicle damage, and unnecessary risks on the road,” said Phelps.
For more information on road safety tips, visit www.dunloptyres.co.za.
