I know a subject like this has been beaten to death, but during a conversation i had with a friend, he brought up an interesting question.

Say you are purchasing a set of used wheels, upgrading to a larger size than you currently run on an Audi. The wheel size you would move up to is and 18 from a 16.

Well when you purchase a used set typically comes in a set of 4. from my understanding and please correct me if im wrong, when running a set of wheels on a quattro set up they all ahve to be the same height, there reason i say this is say you purchase the set of for wheels (18 inch) then get a flat or what not, but cant get it fixed on the spot and your spare is only a 16 does this cause a major problem or would you be ok running on the 16 until your wheel is replaced on the 18?

 

I wouldnt be entering any races, nor even getting on the freeway. You should have a full size spare in the trunk. Your car will run a bit lopsided, but for short travel, i.e tire shop, you will be ok. I would drive slow and turn off the ESP program (If you have it) while on the 16". Extended use of the spare would prolly result in uneven tire wear and suspension issues. Just a logical guess. You should be fine in an emergency.

 

Thanks for the answer...
No No, i dont have the problem it was just a question that came up and i had never thought of it before. I guess i was just bringing up an issue that some people could come into if they are buying 2nd hand wheels seeing most sets come in a set of 4. Thats all.

 

You should really only worry about the overall diameter of the TIRE, not the WHEEL itself. If the tire is a different diameter, you are screwed.