Tire Concerns: Spare tyre size

by Matt
(London)

I have just had a puncture in my near side rear tyre. These tyres were upgraded to R17 from the original R16. Trouble is I still have yet to buy a spare for the R17. To drive to the tyre technician's to repair the puncture, can I put one of my R16 as emergency spare for the 15 min. journey?

Comment:

It is difficult to give you a reliable reply because you have not provided some details which would make the issue much clearer. For example, what was the original R16 tire size and what is the new R17 tire size? What is the size of your spare tire? Perhaps the make, model and year of your vehicle might make a difference, too.

If your "upgrade" as you call it was what is called plus-sizing, this means the the over all diameter of your new tires are the same as the older ones. This may also mean that the spare tire, especially if it is a compact spare, and it was suitable for the R16 tires, will also serve for the R17's but only as a spare.

You are safer with an odd sized tire on the rear because it will not be as difficult to control your vehicle and if you are driving slowly for a short distance you can probably make it to the repair shop.

If you vehicle is a 4WD it is not recommended driving for any distance with unmatched tires in any position, but for a short drive at a slow speed and with ample caution you are not likely to cause any major damage or have any safety issues.

TG