What is the size of a spare tire?
A spare tire is a compact, temporary replacement tire that is typically smaller than the regular tires on a vehicle. The size of a spare tire can vary depending on the make and model of the car, but it is generally designed to be used for a limited distance and speed until the regular tire can be repaired or replaced.
What is the Standard Spare Tire Size?
The standard spare tire size for most passenger vehicles is a compact spare, also known as a "donut" spare. These spare tires are typically 16 to 17 inches in diameter and 4 to 5 inches wide. They are designed to be used for a limited distance, usually no more than 50 to 70 miles, and at a maximum speed of 50 to 70 mph.
Some larger vehicles, such as SUVs and trucks, may have a full-size spare tire that is the same size as the regular tires on the vehicle. These full-size spares are typically 18 to 20 inches in diameter and 7 to 8 inches wide. They can be used for longer distances and at higher speeds than the compact spare.
Factors that Affect Spare Tire Size
- Vehicle make and model: The spare tire size is determined by the manufacturer based on the size of the regular tires on the vehicle.
- Tire type: Vehicles with larger, wider tires may have a correspondingly larger spare tire.
- Wheel size: The spare tire must fit the vehicle's wheel size, which can range from 16 to 20 inches or more.
- Available space: The spare tire must fit in the designated storage area, which can be in the trunk, under the vehicle, or in a separate compartment.
It's important to check the owner's manual or the spare tire itself to determine the specific size and recommended usage for your vehicle's spare tire.
Can you put a 16 inch spare wheel on a car with 17 inch?
Yes, smaller space saver wheels can be used on cars as temporary spare wheels in the event of a flat tyre. Space saver wheels do not necessarily have to have the same diameter as the alloy wheels fitted to the car.
Will any spare tire fit my car?
Temporary spare tires that come with your vehicle are designed to fit your vehicle make and model only. You can't just borrow someone's spare tire and expect it to fit unless you have the exact same vehicle, or a vehicle with the same bolt pattern, hub bore size, weight requirements and even lug nut sizes.
Where do I find the size of my tire?
The tire size for your vehicle and wheels can be found in two places:
- Sidewall of your tire.
- Inside frame of the driver side door.
What size is my spare tire?
Spare tires are the same size as the existing tires your vehicle is riding on. Spare tires allow you to drive normally with no noticeable changes in performance or handling. If your vehicle has a full-size spare tire, we strongly recommend including that tire in your regular tire rotations.
How do I know if a spare wheel will fit my car?
Space saver wheels tend not to be universal, which means they may not fit all makes and models of car. As a rule, you should always check the vehicle's handbook or speak to a trusted mechanic before fitting a space saver spare wheel to your car.
How do I know what size spare tire to get?
A matching full size spare is identical to your other tires and should be incorporated into your regular tire rotation. A non-matching full size spare has lighter-weight construction and shallower tread depth to reduce weight and make it easier to install.
Will any spare wheel fit my car?
As a rule, you should always check the vehicle's handbook or speak to a trusted mechanic before fitting a space saver spare wheel to your car. Fitting an incorrect wheel to your vehicle may have an adverse impact to its road handling, which will make your car more difficult to control.
How do I know what size spare tire cover to get?
You can either measure across your spare tire (edge to edge across the center) to determine it's diameter or you can find your tire size in the following Adco Spare Tire Cover Chart. Spare Tire Cover Size B - 32-1/4" diameter fits: 7.50 x 16.
Does it matter what size your spare tire is?
A matching full size spare is identical to your other tires and should be incorporated into your regular tire rotation. A non-matching full size spare has lighter-weight construction and shallower tread depth to reduce weight and make it easier to install.
Can I drive 200 miles on a full-size spare tire?
You should drive no more than 50 miles on a temporary or donut spare tire if possible. If you absolutely must go longer than 50 miles, avoid driving on it longer than 70 miles. A spare tire isn't meant to completely replace a tire, rather, its purpose is to tide you over until you can properly replace it.
