I got back from Ikea last night with a heavy bootload of stuff, only to notice that I had a puncture (I assume) - what was strange is that the whole wheel was really hot. Is this just the extra friction from running on a flat or something else? Fortunately there was enough air in the tyre that my alloys survived...

Also, how far/fast is it safe to drive on a space saver wheel (once I've got it on!)?

Tyre

A friend of mine had a blow-out on the A1 last year in the pi**ing rain. He changed his tyre and stupidly set off again doing the same speeds 70-80. Anyone who's been on the A1 will know that's it's a bloody nightmare at the best of times. Anyway, he ended up in a ditch upside down witht he spare hanging off. He was lucky to walk away from that one. Suffice to say he now has a Pirelli as a spare!

Personally I would drive slowly to the nearest tyre emporium.

Re: Tyre

The legal limit in the UK with a spacesaver spare is 50 mph. You mustn't use it for any length of time: get a new tyre as soon as possible. Personally, I wouldn't risk 50mph for any length of time.

Space Saver

Ideally you should only use a space saver on the back as well. If you are unlucky enough to have a front go, then change a rear first for the space saver, swap the rear for the front. Pain in the ass but then so are hospital A&E wards.

N

Best use for space savers

Get three mates all with space savers, stick them all on one car, find some spare wet ground, like a big car park at night......and have some fun