[s-cars] Re: Spare tire - it fits!

[William Noland]

I am truly happy that Audi is migrating back to supplying cars with full-size
spares. The trunk of my S4 V8 contains a fullsize Avus with OEM Conti, ready to
go. No more embarrassment from driving around on a donut -- yes!

My WMB M Roadster has no spare (to make room for the dual exhausts). WMB
thoughtfully provides an all-in-one air pump/"fix-a-flat" dispenser. Though I've
used the pump to keep the tire inflated with a slow leak, I refuse to squirt the
fix-a-goop in the tire. Just dial 1-800-AAA-COME-AND-GET-ME.  :-)

Bill Noland


> Today I picked up the wheel. I'm happy to announce that a 235/45 17" tire on
> a 17x8 wheel will actually fit in the spare tire well of a 2002 A6 quattro
> avant.
>
> A couple of minor points.
>
> To remove or replace the wheel, the following has to be removed:
>
> - the lip that holds the hinged lid up. No problem, the tire holds it up
> fine.
> - the chrome trim on the rear sill.
> - the air in the tire.
>
> Yep, it's that tight. I could not get the wheel in or out while it had
> pressure in it. So, you might ask, what good is a spare tire without good
> air pressure? First, it's lighter that way <grin> and second, I carry an
> electric compressor (holdover from my autocrossing days). And of course
> there's a neat little 12v plug right in the rear.
>
> YMMV.