If you’re choosing a temporary spare tire for 165/80D17 or similar sizes, you want a compact, reliable option that gets you safely to a repair shop. These top picks are best suited for drivers who need a short-term solution, mostly for emergencies or careful driving at reduced speeds. The following table summarizes the five most relevant spares and their key traits to help you compare at a glance.
| Product | Brand | Size | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yokohama Y870C All-Season Truck/SUV Tire | Yokohama | 165/80D17 | Light trucks and SUVs needing a temporary spare | Limited to 50 mph and ~50 miles |
| FALKEN T145/80D17 FK090 Temporary Spare | Falken | 145/80D17 | Emergency use on compact spares | 60 psi, 50 mph limit |
| FALKEN T155/80D17 FK090 Temporary Spare | Falken | 155/80D17 | Emergency use with similar tread | 60 psi, 50 mph limit |
| Goodyear Convenience Spare T145/80D17 LL | Goodyear | 145/80D17 | Compact spare for quick replacements | Up to 50 mph; 60 psi at all times |
| Continental sContact T125/90R16 | Continental | 125/90R16 | Wet traction if needed in a pinch | Temporary spare, wide grooves for water shedding |
Yokohama Y870C All-Season Spare for Trucks and SUVs
Size: 165/80D17; Features: Temporary spare, not approved for regular use; Should not be driven more than 50 miles or at speeds above 50 MPH. Best for drivers who already have a full-size tire and want a compact, emergency solution for trucks and SUVs. Choose this if you operate a larger vehicle and want a widely compatible spare. Limitation: Not suitable for long highway drives or extended use.
Falken T145/80D17 FK090 Temporary Spare
Size: 145/80D17; Features: 60 psi inflation, Rated for 50 mph, Temporary, designed for emergency use only. Best for compact cars or space-limited trunks where a small spare is essential. Better for smaller vehicles or garages with limited spare storage. Caution: Not advisable for prolonged driving or high-speed highway use.
Falken T155/80D17 FK090 BW Temporary Spare
Size: 155/80D17; Features: 60 psi inflation, Rated for 50 mph, Temporary, emergency use only. Best for drivers with a mid-size sedan or crossover where a larger spare is beneficial. Choose this if you want a more robust spare than the 145/80 version while still prioritizing emergencies only. Limitation: Not designed for regular driving.
Goodyear Convenience Spare T145/80D17 LL
Size: 145/80D17; Features: Temporary use only; 50 mph limit; 60 psi at all times. Best for those who want a compact spare from a well-known brand and who prefer a design aimed at quick, limited-use replacements. Better for drivers who frequently navigate urban areas and need a space-saving spare. Caution: Not a substitute for a full-size tire, and speed limits must be observed.
Continental sContact T125/90R16 Temp Spare
Size: 125/90R16; Features: Temporary spare tire for passenger vehicles; Wide grooves and open shoulders help water shedding; Angled tread blocks and sipes improve grip in dry, wet, and light winter weather conditions. Best for drivers who need a spare that handles mixed weather more reliably in a pinch. Limitation: Larger than some compact spares, may require careful storage and handling in small trunks.
Buying Guide
What should you consider before buying a temporary spare?
Size compatibility is essential. Check your vehicle’s spare wheel recess and the recommended spare size in the owner’s manual. Temporary spares are not designed for long-distance driving or high speeds, so selecting the right size helps ensure safe handling during a roadside change.
Temporary spare versus full-size spare
Temporary spares are compact and lighter, designed for emergency use. Full-size spares match your regular tires in tread, diameter, and load capacity but require more trunk space. Choose a temporary spare if you need space efficiency and infrequent, short trips.
Speed and mileage limits
Most temporary spares impose speed limits around 50 mph and mileage limits between 50–60 miles. Respect these limits to avoid tire damage or unsafe handling. If you anticipate longer drives, plan a replacement tire as soon as possible.
Inflation pressure requirements
Many spares require higher inflation pressures, often around 60 psi. Maintain the specified pressure and check it regularly, especially after installation or long storage periods.
Storage and fit considerations
Storage space, vehicle weight, and wheel well clearance influence which spare is best. A compact spare saves space but may have reduced traction. Ensure you have the correct lug pattern and wheel size for the spare you choose.
Weather and traction expectations
Some spares are designed with better wet traction or snow performance. If you commonly drive in rain or light snow, consider a spare featuring tread designs that shed water and provide quick grip in challenging conditions.
Maintenance tips
Inspect the spare along with your regular tires. Check inflation monthly and before long trips. Replace a spare if it shows cracking or age-related wear, even if it hasn’t been used.
FAQ
- Can I use a 165/80D17 spare on any vehicle? Temporary spares must match the vehicle’s lug pattern and clearance. Always consult the owner’s manual for accepted spare sizes for your car or truck.
- How fast can I drive on a temporary spare? Most temporary spares limit speed to 50 mph; respect the mark to avoid tire failure.
- How many miles can I drive on a spare? Typical limits range from 50 to 60 miles. Plan to install a full tire or repair the puncture as soon as possible.
- Should I inflate a spare after storage? Yes. Check the required psi and inflate to the specified pressure before use, especially if stored for long periods.
- Can I reuse a temporary spare after a flat? If not damaged and within its use limitations, a temporary spare can be reused, but consider replacing it after use with a regular tire.
- What’s the difference between a compact spare and a full-size spare? A compact spare saves space and weight but has speed and distance limits; a full-size spare matches your regular tire and provides longer, safer use but takes more space.