Toyota Rav4 Spare Tires Guide (All Models)
Utilizing your spare tire might seem easy, but it can be quite tricky.
Cars don’t have a set spot where the spare tire is kept. It might be tucked away under the car, inside the trunk, or even attached to the back door. Each spot requires a different approach to get it out.
Let’s dive into how to find and take out the spare tire in an RAV4, no matter which model you have. This guide will walk you through the steps, so you’ll never be unsure again.
Where Toyota Rav4 Spare Tires Located?
Knowing where your spare tire is stored is crucial for being prepared in case of emergencies. It’s not just about finding it when you need it; it’s also about ensuring it’s in good shape. We’ll delve into maintaining your spare tire later on.
In the RAV4, your spare tire could be in one of two places:
- Underneath the rear cargo area (2013-2024 models): This is a common spot for newer RAV4s. It’s usually accessed from underneath the car.
- Attached to the rear door exterior (1994-2012 models): Older RAV4s might have the spare tire mounted on the back door, making it easier to access.
I’ll provide detailed instructions for removing the spare tire for each model year of the RAV4. Stick around to find out more!
How to Remove Toyota Rav4 Spare Tires?
Knowing how to remove and install your spare tire is vital in case of an emergency.
The steps for removing the spare tire differ based on the age of your RAV4. Here’s a breakdown for each model year:
For 2013-2024 RAV4s:
If your RAV4 is a 2013 model or newer, the spare tire is tucked away underneath the rear cargo area. Follow these steps:
- Clear the rear cargo area: Make sure there’s nothing obstructing access.
- Find the fabric handle: Lift the rear cargo floor using the fabric handle to reveal the spare tire.
- Remove the spare tire: Take out the spare tire from the cargo area and put the cargo floor back in place.
For 1994-2012 RAV4s:
For older RAV4s, typically those from 2012 or earlier, the spare tire is mounted on the rear door with a cover. Here’s what you do:
- Open the rear door: Unlock the latch handle located at the bottom of the spare tire cover.
- Remove the cover: Close the rear door, then lift the cover away from the vehicle.
- Take out the spare tire: Loosen and remove the wheel nuts, then lift the spare tire off the vehicle.
Now you’re equipped with the knowledge to handle spare tire removal for any RAV4 model year!
Spare Tires Size
Understanding the size of your spare tire is important, especially if you need to replace it.
Spare tire sizes for RAV4s can differ. Older models, with spare tires mounted on the rear, typically carry a full-size spare. However, newer RAV4s come with compact, temporary spare tires.
Here are the spare tire sizes you might encounter for the Toyota RAV4:
For 2013-2023 Toyota RAV4s:
The spare tire size can vary slightly depending on your wheel size. Common sizes include:
- T165/80R17 104M
- T165/80D17 104M
- T165/90D18 107M
For 1994-2012 Toyota RAV4s:
The spare tire matches the size of the vehicle’s standard tires.
To find out more about your specific spare tire size, refer to your owner’s manual. You can usually find this information in the “specifications” section.
You should also check: Toyota RAV4 Sport Mode (Explained)
Spare Tires Care and Maintenance
Taking care of your spare tire is crucial, as it could be your lifeline in an emergency. Here are some easy steps you can take to ensure it’s always ready to go:
Check the Air Pressure
Low air pressure is a common issue with spare tires. They can lose air slowly over time, especially with temperature changes. Without proper air pressure, your spare tire won’t be much help when you need it. You can easily check the air pressure with a tire pressure gauge. It’s a good idea to keep one in your car at all times. Also, pay attention to the low tire pressure indicator on your RAV4’s dashboard; it’ll alert you when the pressure is critically low.
Inspect for Aging and Damage
Spare tires, especially those mounted on the rear door of older RAV4s, are exposed to the elements and can deteriorate over time. Look out for signs of aging and damage like cracks, dry and brittle rubber, or bubbles. Make it a habit to examine your spare tire every six to twelve months to ensure it’s still in good shape.
By following these simple maintenance steps, you can have peace of mind knowing that your spare tire is ready to tackle any unexpected flat tire situation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ensuring the readiness of your Toyota RAV4’s spare tire is essential for facing unexpected flat tire situations. Regular maintenance, such as checking air pressure and inspecting for damage, can make all the difference in emergency scenarios. By staying proactive in caring for your spare tire, you can travel with confidence, knowing you’re prepared for whatever the road may bring.
