turbowagon

My R came with a donut spare, but it is the same diameter as the factory 16's 205/55/16. I assume it is safe to use with the exact same factory rubber size and manufacturer. Even different tire manufacturers who make a 205/55/16 can have a slight difference is size. Frow what I understand, if you have noticeable tire wear and get a flat tire needing replacement, you need to buy all 4 new tires to guarantee no bevel failure. I am now running 235/40/18 and am sure that I cannot use the spare anymore. I carry a can of fix a flat to get me to somplace to fix the tire. I haven't needed it, but know that I am ready to call AAA if I am suspect to any difference in rolling diameter. The reason I say F'd is because many owners have gone to Volvo to complain of you exact problem and Volvo comes back showing the manual. Could it be that the spare was low on air and allowed the outside diameter to be less that the rest of the wheels? Could the tread be super low on all your other tires and high on the spare? At least try to contact Volvo. . .then let us know the outcome. Fawk!

You sir, are F'd. Sorry.

Key question is: Can you hand crank the car without excess force? Hopefully, so that you can hope for 0 valve damage. If so, align cams/crank and put in a timing belt. If not reassess, because that could require an entire motor. . . . Hopefully you are cool