Undersize spare tire question

NCLivingBrit

NCLivingBrit

Well-Known Member
2A Bourbon Hound 2024
2A Bourbon Hound OG
Supporting Member
Multi-Factor Enabled
Joined
Dec 16, 2016
Messages
22,704
Location
Reidsville NC
Rating - 100%
71   0   0
So since I own a Mazda 5, I have had two of the TPMS stems break off while I was putting air in. This is apparently a really common problem and you have to replace the whole sensor not just the valve! The first time it happened I had the guy replace the sensor with a plain rubber one for $10 and went about my business with my TPMS warning light on.

This afternoon was the second time and I had to throw the donut spare on. Like a Muppet I didn't move it to the back with a regular wheel in front and drove home about 5 miles. Soon as it cools down outside I'll go swap it to a back wheel.

Problem I have is this. The guy who only charged me $10 to swap the valve is in Danville VA. I'm in Kernersville. Normally I'd just suck up the higher price and go local but the tires are on the verge of needing replacement and I know a random local shop is going to say they're too old (they are a little crappy looking on the sides but have tread) and refuse to do it on "safety" grounds unless I buy a new set, but I'm broke as a joke so that just isn't an option right now.

I'd be commuting (16 miles each way) a few days before I could make a run to Danville, then there's the run itself (90 odd miles), will a donut tire survive that if I keep my speed down?
 
Last edited:
Why don't you roll by a Discount Tire? I feel like they've always treated me fairly.
 
Donuts are made for 50 miles at 50 mph.
Try the old Exxon (or it use to be years ago) west of the main stop light.
 
Jeppo said:
Why don't you roll by a Discount Tire? I feel like they've always treated me fairly.
Click to expand...

You've had more luck than me then, they broke my rim last time I got tires there Then charged me more than they stated it would be and basically told me to go infract myself.
 
Maybe overcharging you is what allowed them to be fair with me? Thanks for that...I owe ya!

:D
 
Let me preface the following opinions with the disclaimer: I am not trying to get in your business nor tell you what to do.

Here's what I would do if I were in your shoes, I would find 2 used tires at a local shop that will also mount them for you. I bet there are a few around Kernersville. Driving to Danville is too time consuming and expensive. I figure it costs at least $0.50 to drive a mile. This guy's method can help alleviate financial strain https://m.youtube.com/user/DaveRamseyShow
 
I only wish you were closer because there is a place around the corner from me that would take care of you. I'm with @Mike Overlay , find a small shop and explain your situation. If you aren't doing anything unsafe, they may just help you out.
 
Donut tires CAN last a number of miles. I personally drove over 200 mile on one when I had to.

However, they're not designed for prolonged use, and certainly not prolonged use at high speeds.

The key to maximizing your donut life is to make darn sure it's properly inflated before you use it. If it's not, you'll kill the donut in very short order.

And your handling will be different.

So...properly inflated, not over 50 mph, and for a minimal distance.

CAN you drive on it for longer periods? Obviously I have. But...there's no guarantee. And while you're driving with it...you have no spare tire in case it fails.
 
I'm with the others. Get a used tire for now. Also, TPMS sensors are actually pretty inexpensive. I've bought them from Rock Auto a few times. Usually around $30 each. Save up the money and have them installed whenever you get around to it. Or don't. The idiot light on the dash drives me crazy though.
 
Take all of the tpms out and seal in a 4 inch long 2" pvc with a valve stem in one end cap and a solid cap on the other. Then throw it in the back and forget about them. They are USELESS as their intended purpose. There is always cooks flea market. Couple of guys there selling used tires cheap and they install too.
 
just food for thought getting a tire fixed now might be cheaper than a tow bill if your donut leaves you on the side of the rd. Like others said find a mom and pop or used tires.
 
Got the tire fixed, found a place open early (Beheroth Tire) and was about the same price as my guy in VA. I'll go back and get the other two POS sensors swapped out when I have some spare time.
 
Last edited:
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom