D5 - space saver spare wheel

[Cantankerous One]

Having just acquired my 2007 V50 D5 and preferring a space saver spare wheel to the tyre sealant kit that was in the car - I've ordered a space saver which is due to arrive today.

But having just had a look at the full specifications for the V50 2007 model year - I found that the D5 is specifically excluded from being supplied with a space saver spare wheel - it is only supplied with a tyre sealant kit. Does anyone know why?

As it's just the D5 and not the T5 I suspect it may well be weight related because of the heavier diesel engine them I'll have a brand new space saver appearing in the for sale column.

[Richard Knight]

I have a 2007 (MY 2008) V50 D5 with a space saver, it looks like it's been there from new.

[RickyYates]

My C30 D5 never came with a space saver wheel. For peace of mind I'd rather have one than the tyre sealant kit. What if I have a tyre completely blow out? I had a breif look on eBay but couldn't find an 18" space saver. It's on my 'to do list' when I come back from my holiday.

[Cantankerous One]

Thanks Both,

Ricky - When I asked the Volvo parts supplier whether the 16 inch space saver would be OK for a V50 with 18" wheels he said that was the only one suitable - otherwise I'd have been looking for an 18" one too. I had hoped that the 17" would fit - but I suppose it is because they are for the non-Ford derived Volvos so presumably the stud positions are different.

Regards

[RickyYates]

I was wondering if a smaller wheel size would be ok to use so thanks for clearing that up. Are you going to keep the wheel?

[KrissV50]

As far as I know the cars that were speced with Run-flat tyres didn't get a space saver only the sealing kit.

The space saver wheel is always the same wheel for all models in the range regardless of wheel size due to production cost. As the wheel is only an emergency "get you home wheel" it is not to be used for a long distance.
But if you measure the wheels centre to centre the size difference is very small if just looks wrong when you lower it to the ground.

[Cantankerous One]

Originally Posted by RickyYates

I was wondering if a smaller wheel size would be ok to use so thanks for clearing that up. Are you going to keep the wheel?

Hi Ricky - Yes I will keep it - like you I don't like the thought of having to rely on a tyre sealant kit which is no use if the sidewall is damaged or the puncture is not otherwise suitable for a sealant. At least I'll be able to drive to a tyre place to have the puncture repaired or tyre replaced rather than being possibly stuck in the middle of nowhere and reliant upon my breakdown service to (eventually) get me on the move again!

[RickyYates]

Did you order a brand new one from Volvo if you don't mind me asking Cantankerous One?

[Cantankerous One]

Yes from volvopartstrade on eBay. It arrived today but not yet been able to see if it fits as car is in Southport Auto Centre (an indi Volvo specialist) having service and cambelt change.

I queried lack of a space saver option with SAC - they reckon the only reason is because the spare wheel well is shallower in D5 engined V50s to provide clearance for the twin tailpipe exhaust back box to be fitted directly underneath. They reckon putting a space saver in the well would result in the removable boot floor ending up an inch or so higher to accommodate it!

I'll see if they are right tomorrow when I get the car back.