TPS vs full-size spare

[bwilson4web]

Hi,

How does one handle getting a full-size spare with a TPS that matches the existing set? Is this something my dealer should be able to handle?

I like to have a full-size tire so if on a trip, something bad happens, we change the tire and keep on rolling. I then have the option of shopping to have the flat tire repaired. Then the repaired tire goes in the well until it is time to rotate.

So any 'lessons learned,' suggestions or recommendations?

Thanks,
Bob Wilson

[stream]

You should check whether a full size spare would fit in the storage area--I doubt it would. The space saver spares do just that.

[brick]

I don't think you would be able to add a 5th sensor. The computer learns each of the four pressure sensors individually so it's not as simple as matching a frequency or code. The computer would have to have a 5th register.

[Rokeby]

Bob,

At least on the Gen II you have two imperfect options for a full-size
spare vis-a-vis the TPMS:
* Run it without a sensor, and tape over the dash warning light.
* Run it with a sensor and pay ~$60 USD to have the dealer
reprogram the computer to recognize the "spare" when it is in use.

But all the little details on the Gen II may not map across to the
Gen III. Reprogramming the computer is a major complaint for folks
up north as it runs up a bitterly resented $120 annual bill for those
folks who run a second set of rims with full on snow tires in the winter
and want TPMS protection.

Maybe, just maybe, Toyota has changed the TPMS on the GEN III so it
can recognize/monitor up to eight tires without reprogramming. I
would think it would be worth giving somebody high up at ToyotaUSA
a call/email to see if anything has changed.

(Separately, there is the issue of the TPMS sender in the tire being
always on and running down it's battery which IIRC has ~5 yr. service
life. It is quite expensive to replace including de/remounting the
tire.

When I mentioned the TPMS to the manager of the nearby MR. Tire,
he just about exploded in contempt for the whole concept, its different
implementations, and the future costs it represents for drivers and the
raging anger he's going to have to bear/deflect due those costs.)

[HTMLSpinnr]

Mexican spec Prius has a full sized spare. I don't know if they have TPMS though.

[qbee42]

Originally Posted by HTMLSpinnr

Mexican spec Prius has a full sized spare. I don't know if they have TPMS though.

Yes, but they have 12" wheels and low profile tires.

Tom

[dogfriend]

Originally Posted by qbee42

Yes, but they have 12" wheels and low profile tires.

Tom

How about just running 4 of the "Space Saver" tires and rims? You are limited to 50mph and they are hard as a rock, but I bet there would be a noticeable FE improvement over the regular tires.

[qbee42]

Originally Posted by dogfriend

How about just running 4 of the "Space Saver" tires and rims? You are limited to 50mph and they are hard as a rock, but I bet their would be a noticeable FE improvement over the regular tires.

That's a great idea. You could get some spinner wheel covers for them, and add blue under-body lights.

Tom