Compact spare tire
 

Hi all,
It has been a while since I have been on the Lexus Forums.
I took delivery on an RC F today.
Nebula Grey and Rioja interior. Car is spectacular.
Three issues:
1. No spare tire. I do not feel comfortable going long distances without more protection than the repair kit. Has anyone looked into buying a space saver spare tire and wheel? Dealer wanted $450.00.
2. Same brake squeal others have noted when coming to a stop when traveling slow.
3. Some minor creaking sounds from from end when starting from a stopped position.
Any input would be appreciated.

A little more information on the spare tire issue:
My salesman looked at an RC 350 in the showroom and it had a space saver spare, size T155/70d17
I'm going to check with TireRack this week and maybe a local tire dealer like Goodyear.
I imagine the same size would be okay for the RC F as a spare.

You would need a 19"
You have roadside assistance though

Look at this post, the correct spare tire is 225/40ZR19

Pics of RC-F spare

OP congrats. Hope you can work out the spare tire issue. In the meantime, how about some pics and a bit of a review on how she drives?

That is actually a band aide solution for that market...

One could try the IS F spare tire...

The real problem is going to be finding one that clears the Front 15" rotor and larger caliper..
Also has to work in the rear as well..

The weight saver repair kit is great for an LFA.. I just don't think Lexus thought this through all the way for the majority of owners who will daily drive their RC F's.

The spare tire gives you the ability to fix a none repairable flat and safely reach your destination with out calling for a tow to a dealership or shop.. Or to your house if all those options are closed.



Joe Z :)

^ Well said, but damn a full size spare is heavy as crap... I'll measure it later and post a pic :)

Full Size Spare
 

In case anyone was wondering...

https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.clu...3ac9ad0b2e.jpg


Full Size Spare...


https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.clu...878b99a3fb.jpg


Weight of the Full Size Spare o_O


https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.clu...b514345ba6.jpg


Full Size Spare with Jack and Tools...

So 45.8 lbs. (spare tire) + 9 lbs. (jack w/tools) = 54.8 lbs. of unnecessary weight :egads:

Purchase a good quality tire plug kit, 12V compressor, and a small jack. A few of pounds at most, and will take care of the majority of flat tire issues. Like all tools, learn how to use it before you need it.:thumbup:

probability wise having a total failure of a tire is quite rare for most. Carrying around an air compressor is cheap insurance too, saved my can a couple times.

I've had to use my spare tires in all my Lexus'..


Most recently on the IS F.. I had a double blow out (bends) after hitting part of a tow truck scoop bar at 70 mph.

If its going to happen, it will happen...

The tire repair kit is good for a nail.. That's about it.


Joe Z

I guess we'll all need to be daring. :p

My recommendation is for those that don't want to carry a spare of any type. While total tire destruction can occur, most flats are just a nail or small puncture. With that said, one may be surprised by what can be plugged, they are not permanent solutions, but may be enough to get to safety. Myself, I always prefer full size spares when possible.

The kit does not involve plugging the tire. There is a compressor in the RCF and a sealant. You simply connect the bottle in line to the tire and turn on the compressor with the car running on a flat surface. Once it has reached the appropriate pressure, you drive 3 miles to coat the interior and then recheck and adjust the PSI.

You can drive 62 miles at speeds up to 50 mph.

Yes the sealant is was "plugs" the tire (if it works) .... :agreed:

Daring indeed..!! :p

Joe Z