How to Remove a Spare Wheel

We normally think of spare wheels being stored in the trunk of a vehicle. But in vehicles that don't have a trunk, such as station wagons, pick-up trucks and SUVs, they need to be stored in another place. Station wagons usually have spare wheels hidden in the cargo area. In pick-up trucks and SUVs, the spare wheels can often be found underneath the rear of the vehicle or on the back door.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Tire crank

1. Open the trunk. Lift up the carpet in the middle of the trunk. You'll see a hinged door. Unlatch and open the door. You'll see the spare wheel located there.

2. Unscrew the bolt piece that's holding the spacer to the tire, using your hand. Remove the bolt piece and pull the spacer up and off. Then, lift the spare wheel up and out of the compartment.

3. Remove a spare wheel located underneath a truck or SUV by locating the crank handle This thin, long metal piece can often be found under the hood or behind the seat.

4. Place the straight end of the crank into the slot on the rear of the vehicle near the back license plate. Turn the crank counterclockwise to lower the spare wheel down. Once it reaches the ground, slide the spare wheel out towards you. Unhook the hub key which is on a cable from the center of the spare wheel.

5. Remove a spare wheel that's mounted on the back of the tailgate of an SUV by pulling off the tire cover, if applicable.

6. Loosen the lug that holds the spare wheel in place with your hand. Remove the lug and pull the spacer off. Then, pull the spare wheel off the mount.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're not sure where the spare wheel is located on your vehicle, refer to the owner's manual.
• Be careful when lifting a spare wheel- they are heavy.

References

• How to Remove a Spare Tire

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