I did a search and couldn't find this topic, probably because this is a stupid question. I'm going to upgrade the tires on my 2001 Xterra SE from stock (255 65R16) to 31s. Do I need to buy a spare tire of the same size and if so, will it fit in the same location?

Thanks!

Yes, a 31" tire will fir without problems. You should get a spare the same size.

Although it was very tight, I crammed a 32" tire in there (with a hitch), but took it out - a little too tight.... Like Rick said though, a 31" should be fine.

While it's generally recommended to get a same-sized spare, the only reason why I would think you wouldn't need to is if you never take it offroad or never use the 4wd.

If you have an air compressor or other means of inflating the tire on the road, you can just air down the 32. Some people deflate their 32s to make them fit and don't mind the extra effort.

My 31s fit without any modification.