I sifted through several posts earlier , and couldn't find a clear answer and am hoping this group can weigh in. I recently purchased a 2023 OBW and swapped the stock wheels and tires out for Methods wheels and slightly larger tires - 245/65/17 Falken Wildpeak AT3W. I retained the spare that came with it, that is a 225/65/17.
I really hadn't thought through the unique nature of an AWD vehicle with regards to running a smaller spare tire, so I pulled out the user manual to see what it had to say. What I learned is:
I plan to buy another 245/65/17 wheel/tire combo prior to my first rotation, but haven't settled on a way I want to carry it. I am just trying to understand if I have a flat between now and then if I am going to damage my car by driving it with the smaller spare tire. Thanks in advance!
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I really hadn't thought through the unique nature of an AWD vehicle with regards to running a smaller spare tire, so I pulled out the user manual to see what it had to say. What I learned is:
- Some outbacks come with a full size spare and some come with a donut that is smaller than full size tires
- When using the donut it needs to be used on the front axle
- Using different size tires can cause damage to the transmission
- The spare should be used for a short period of time, and at slow speed
I plan to buy another 245/65/17 wheel/tire combo prior to my first rotation, but haven't settled on a way I want to carry it. I am just trying to understand if I have a flat between now and then if I am going to damage my car by driving it with the smaller spare tire. Thanks in advance!
