How you take spare tire off Toyota RAV4 models depends on the model year: older RAV4s carry it on the rear door, while newer ones store it under the cargo floor. Either way, you release it with the tools from the car’s tool kit following the steps in your owner’s manual. Park on level ground with the parking brake on, and make sure the car is secure before you start.
Key Features of the Toyota RAV4 Spare Tire Setup
Where the spare is stored depends on model year. Some have a rear-mounted spare with a cover, while others store a compact or full-size spare under the cargo floor. Some trims or versions have no spare and carry a repair kit instead. Check your owner’s manual.
Essential Tools for Spare Tire Removal
Use the jack, wheel nut wrench and other tools in the car’s tool kit, as the owner’s manual shows. A pair of gloves and a mat help.
How to Take Spare Tire Off Toyota RAV4 Step by Step
- Park on level ground, set the parking brake and turn the car off.
- Open the cargo area or remove the cover.
- Release the retaining fastener or nuts that hold the spare, as your manual shows.
- Lift the spare out carefully.
- Check its pressure before you use it.
Installing Your Spare Tire: A How-To Guide
Fit the spare to the hub, tighten the wheel nuts in a cross pattern by hand and then with the wrench, and lower the car. Use the torque in your owner’s manual and check the nuts again after a short drive. A compact spare is for temporary use only.
Securing the Spare Tire Cover After Installation
If your model has a spare cover, close and secure it so the spare does not rattle or collect dirt.
Proper Zipper Alignment
Line up the zipper or fasteners evenly before you close the cover.
Secure Cover Tabs
Fasten any tabs so the cover stays tight on the spare.
Regular Maintenance Checks
Check the spare’s pressure and condition regularly, and keep the tools in good condition.
Tips for Maintaining Your Spare Tire and Tools
Check the spare’s pressure every few months and before long trips, and keep the jack and wheel wrench stored properly.
Regular Tire Pressure Checks
Spare tires lose pressure over time, and compact spares need higher pressure than normal tires. Check the pressure printed on the spare or in your owner’s manual.
Proper Tool Storage
Return the jack and wheel wrench to their stored positions so they do not rattle or go missing.
When Should You Call a Pro for Spare Tire Problems?
Call roadside assistance if the nuts are seized, the spare is damaged, or you are not comfortable working beside traffic.
Related reading:
- Best Toyota RAV4 Spare Tire Covers and Bike Racks
- Best Toyota RAV4 Silver Spare Tire Covers: 9 Options
- How To Remove Spare Tire From Toyota RAV4
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Take RAV4 Spare Tire Off?
Release the retaining fastener as your owner’s manual shows and lift the spare out. The location depends on model year.
How Do I Release My Spare Tire?
Use the tool from the kit on the retaining bolt or nuts that hold the spare, following your owner’s manual.
How to Remove a Toyota Spare Wheel?
Release the fastener holding it and lift it out, as shown in your owner’s manual.
How to Get Jack Out of Toyota RAV4?
The jack and tools are normally in the cargo area near the spare. Your owner’s manual shows the location for your model.
Conclusion
Taking the spare off a RAV4 is straightforward once you know where it is stored. Follow your owner’s manual, work on level ground and be careful beside traffic.
