What size should a space saver wheel be?
When it comes to vehicle maintenance, understanding the components of your car is crucial, especially when it involves something as essential as your wheels. Space saver wheels, also known as temporary spare tires, are designed to help you get back on the road after a flat tire. However, choosing the right size for your space saver wheel is vital for safety and performance. In this article, we will explore the appropriate sizes for space saver wheels and the factors to consider when selecting one.
Understanding Space Saver Wheels
Space saver wheels are smaller and lighter than regular tires, allowing for easier storage in your vehicle. They are typically used as a temporary solution until you can replace your flat tire with a full-sized one. However, their size and specifications can vary significantly based on the make and model of your vehicle.
Common Sizes for Space Saver Wheels
Space saver wheels generally come in a few standard sizes, but the exact size you need will depend on your vehicle. Here are some common sizes:
- 14 inches
- 15 inches
- 16 inches
- 17 inches
It's essential to check your vehicle's owner manual or consult with a professional to determine the correct size for your specific model.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Space Saver Wheel
When selecting a space saver wheel, consider the following factors:
- Vehicle Compatibility: Ensure that the wheel is compatible with your vehicle's make and model.
- Load Rating: Check the load rating to ensure it can support the weight of your vehicle.
- Tread Pattern: The tread pattern should be suitable for the conditions you typically drive in.
- Speed Rating: Space saver wheels often have a lower speed rating, typically allowing for speeds up to 50 mph.
Conclusion
Choosing the right size for a space saver wheel is crucial for maintaining your vehicle's safety and performance. Always refer to your vehicle's specifications and consult with a professional if you're unsure. Remember, a space saver wheel is a temporary solution, so it's important to replace it with a full-sized tire as soon as possible to ensure optimal driving conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to fit a space saver wheel?
The wheelnuts. Put your new or spare on by aligning your wheelnut post and the holes on the tire proceed to replace the nuts hand tightening for now lower the car carefully. And remove your jack.
Does a space saver spare wheel have to be the same size?
Although it is strongly advisable to have the same size wheel and tyre when it comes to your space saver - you can still drive with different sizes (for a short period of time). Drivers shouldn't use space saver wheels and tyres that have a total radius that is 3% more of less than the orignal tyre and wheel.
Are space saver tyres illegal?
Australian Design Rules allow space-savers to be supplied with vehicles; however, it is illegal to drive with different sized wheels on the same axle.
Can you put 16 inch tires on a car with 17 inch tires?
If your vehicle came from the factory with a 17 inch wheel or larger you may not be able to run 16 inch wheels. The reason for this is because when the car manufacturers run larger wheels it's typically to accommodate for larger than usual brakes.
What are the rules for space saver wheels?
It is recommended to stay within a range of 50 miles. Never fit more than 1 space saver wheel to a car at any time. If you are driving a front-wheel-drive vehicle and you have a flat at the front. You should replace the flat tyre with a rear tyre so that the space saver is not at the front of the 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.
What is the main disadvantage of a space saver spare tyre?
Cons. Only temporary: Space savers are only a temporary solution to get you out of a pinch, and only until you reach a garage for a proper tyre replacement – they are not intended for long-term use. As such, you are paying purely for an emergency get-out, rather than a tyre that can last you long into the future.
Is it OK to drive with a space saver tyre?
The maximum distance you are advised to travel on a saver tyre is normally around 50 miles (as the wheels have a limited 3mm tread) but if it's necessary you can drive up to 300 miles. This is provided that the road surface is good and that you drive at a slow speed – so absolutely no racing along those country roads!
Can I replace my space saver tyre with full-size?
They are not designed to be driven over long distances and studies have shown that they may compromise the performance, functionality, and emergency handling of a vehicle. This means it is essential that you swap your space saver tyre for a new full-sized tyre as soon as possible.
Can you use a 17 inch space saver on a car with 18 inch wheels?
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.
