Hey, got a 2009 tC with the donut spare. I want a real spare that will fit the well. Have a spare stock wheel, but too tall sitting in the well. Spare doesn't need to match, but should be ok for highway speed and many miles if necessary. Wondered if anyone had tried fitting a Corolla wheel. A 16" wheel will clearly fit over the tC stock calipers. I'm guessing a 15" wheel would fit as well. A Corolla stock 6" wide rim and 195/65R15 tire for instance. Thoughts?

 

Therein lies your problem. There's not enough room in the well for a real tire that would be any safer than your donut. Your car weighs over 3000 lbs and that's too much for a wheel/ tire combo that would fit the well. Not only does it have to fit, it must be tied down so it doesn't become a projectile during a wreck. The car came with a tie-down strap for flats but it looks pretty dicey and is only for emergencies.

At least in my experience, most tire damage is due to punctures. You can fix punctures on the road. This tool is ~$40 but that's cheaper than a wheel that would fit both your well and calipers. I have one myself and it's much better than the manual puncture repair kits.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/12610058243...Cclp%3A4429486

 

Yeah 3000 lb, same as a Corolla. That's why I asked about using a stock Corolla wheel+tire. I think it should (barely) fit in the well. Unfortunately we sold the old Corolla, else I would already know the answer! I assume that full-size spare would be mounted same as the donut spare is now.

Tire plugs are cool too, agreed.