Replacing donut with full spare

[pepper88]

I'm thinking of swapping out the donut spare on my 23 Highlander Hybrid for a fullsize backup. I got a new wheel and tire set from a 2022 RAV4 and that matches bolt pattern and bore size.

Do you think the smaller diameter will clear the rear control arm and brake caliper? current vehicle running 19" wheels, by the way. Anyone tried something like this or have input before I make the swap.?

 

[OverlanderKing11]

Let me stop you there before you do something stupid. You need be absolutely sure the spare tire has the exact same full diameter, meaning wheel and tire, as the other 3 tires. Even the slightest offset may leat to problems which you'll want to avoid. Make sure to double check this before trying to rely on it in case of an emergency

 

[Brucee]

Swapping in a smaller RAV4 wheel might technically fit the hub, but clearance could be tight near the rear control arm or caliper especially with 19" stock wheels. Toyota should've just included full-size spares in the first place, honestly.

 

[Silvergirl90]

I'm thinking of swapping out the donut spare on my 23 Highlander Hybrid for a fullsize backup. I got a new wheel and tire set from a 2022 RAV4 and that matches bolt pattern and bore size.

Do you think the smaller diameter will clear the rear control arm and brake caliper? current vehicle running 19" wheels, by the way. Anyone tried something like this or have input before I make the swap.?

bro, the only way to know for sure is to do a test fit.
Jack up the car, take a wheel off, and bolt the RAV4 spare on. Turn the wheel by hand and visually check for clearance at the brake caliper and control arm.
You're right that the smaller overall diameter is a big concern, not just for clearance, but for the drivetrain.
you know that driving on a wheel with a different diameter can cause damage to the hybrid's AWD system over a long distance