Check to make sure that all the lug nuts on the spare tire are on tightly. You can tighten these nuts using the tire iron or tools that came with the vehicle. It is especially important to double check them if someone else placed the spare tire on for you. Using the tool, you can hand tighten the bolts by applying as much pressure on it as possible.
Read the manual regarding proper tire pressure in the spare tire and the speed at which you should travel when using the spare. Some vehicles, such as trucks, have spare tires that are the same size as the actual tire. Smaller vehicles, such as cars, have a smaller spare tire or what has become known as a "doughnut," because of its size. The manual will say how fast you should drive when using the spare tire. Depending on the tire pressure in the spare, you may or may not be able to use it. If it is too low, you will have to have your vehicle towed. If it is just a little low, you should be able to drive to a nearby gas station to inflate it.
Turn on your hazard lights before returning to the road. You will have to drive slower, and your hazard lights will warn other drivers.
Drive in the far right lane or the lane for slower traffic.
Avoid driving on a spare tire at night if possible. Visibility at night is reduced, which makes it dangerous to drive slowly. If possible, leave your vehicle overnight and drive it home on the spare during the day.
