What is a Dissimilar Spare Wheel and Tire?

A dissimilar spare wheel and tire refers to a spare that differs in size or specifications from the main wheels installed on your vehicle. Using this type of wheel involves important safety considerations and limitations.

Failure to follow the instructions for using a dissimilar spare wheel may increase the risk of losing vehicle control, which could lead to serious injury or death. If you are unsure which type of spare wheel your vehicle is equipped with, drive with caution and do not exceed a speed of 80 km/h (50 mph).

If your full-size dissimilar spare wheel and tire assembly has a label stating "THIS WHEEL AND TIRE ASSEMBLY FOR TEMPORARY USE ONLY," it is intended for short-term use only. You should drive the shortest distance possible and immediately have the damaged main wheel and tire repaired or replaced. If the temporary spare itself becomes damaged, it must also be replaced.

Using a dissimilar spare wheel and tire (with a label) may affect various aspects of vehicle performance, including:

  • Handling and stability
  • Braking performance
  • Ride comfort and noise levels
  • Ground clearance
  • Traction on wet or snowy surfaces
  • All-wheel-drive (AWD) capability

When driving with a labeled dissimilar spare tire, please adhere to the following precautions:

  • Do not exceed the maximum speed indicated on the label.
  • Do not exceed the vehicle’s maximum load capacity.
  • Do not tow a trailer.
  • Do not use snow chains on the rear wheels if a dissimilar spare is installed.
  • Do not use more than one dissimilar spare wheel at a time.
  • Do not use commercially available car wash products on the spare wheel.

Note: If your vehicle has a full-size dissimilar spare wheel that does not have a label, it can be used as a standard replacement for the original wheel, and you may continue driving normally.