Spacesaver tyres were smaller and less durable than regular tyres and were not designed for everyday use.
"We would strongly recommend that you replace any spacesaver tyre with a spare regular tyre, if possible.
"This is all about safety, not just for the car owner but also for other road users," Mr Marshall said.
A New Zealand Transport Agency spokesman said spacesaver tyres were for emergency use only.
"If you get a flat tyre and replace a wheel with a spacesaver wheel, you should only use it to get directly home or to a place where the flat tyre can be repaired or replaced.
"The vehicle is likely to handle differently with a spacesaver wheel," he said.