Toyota Rav4 Spare Tire Guide – Types, Locations and Maintenance

Most people think that a spare tire on a Rav4 is just an accessory, but it’s more than that, and I can say from my personal experience that it will help you when you are most vulnerable.

The article below explains its importance, types, and how to change it. So, follow me into the article.

Does Toyota Rav4 have a Spare Tire: Let Me Explain:

In earlier times, the Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a full-size spare tire mounted on the back of the Rav4, which was visible on every side. This design was particularly common in aged models. Now, with new models that started after 2013, they have shifted the place of spare tires into the cargo space.

Some of the newest Toyota Rav4 models that come after 2013 have another version of the spare tire. That spare tire, known as a temporary or compact spare tire, also has the nickname “donut tire,” which is very light and smaller than regular tires. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t use it. You can use it until you get the regular tire fix.

Types of Spare Tires in RAV4:

There are basically two types of spare tires on Rav4.

Full- Size Spare Tire:

In the old Rav4, we get a full-size spare tire identical to the regular tires in size and function. It can be used like any of your other tires and provides the same driving experience, meaning no limitations in speed or distance.

However, full-size spare tires can take up a lot of space and are also very heavy, which is why compact spare tires replace them. The size of the full-size spare tire is equal to the Rav4 tire size.

Compact Spare Tire:

Most of the newest RAV4 models and trim are equipped with a temporary spare tire, which is significantly lower in quality and lighter in weight than regular tires. This “donut” tire is meant for short-term use only.

But it is accessible and takes up less space in your car, so you don’t have to throw it out to clear extra space in the back. It also comes with certain limitations, which include limited speed, which means it shouldn’t be driven higher than 50 mph or for long distances longer than 70 miles. The size of compact size is,

• T165/90D18 107M
• T165/80R17 104M
• T165/80D17 104M

Where is the Spare Tire Located in the RAV4?

The Rav4 spare tire can be in different locations depending on your Rav4 model and trim.

Cargo Compartment:

Nowadays, almost every RAV4 model, starting from 2013 and onwards, has a spare tire located on the cargo floor at the back of the Vehicle. It is fitted under the compartment, which not only gives you extra space but can also be retrieved easily.

To access it, you need to lift the cargo floor panel. You will find your spare tire, a jack, and other necessary tools there.

Old Rav4 Model:

In old models before 2013, your spare tire is mounted behind your vehicle. In these models, as mentioned, a full-size spare tire is attached to the back of your car with a protection cover. Back on your Rav4, this mounted tire gives you extra space inside the car and looks very sick and rugged.

Watch the video below to clearly understand the tire location in newer Toyota RAV4 models (2013 and onwards) so you know exactly where to find it when needed.

How to Change the Spare Tire on an RAV4:

I always say that everyone should learn how to change a car tire. So, if you don’t know how to change the spare tire, stay with us to understand the full process.

• Park your Rav4 in a safe spot, engage the parking brake, and turn off the car.
• Now locate your spare tire and remove it from your Rav4, along with the jack and other necessary tools.
• Start using the lug wrench to loosen the nuts on your flat tire. Do this while the tire is still on the ground because it keeps your tire from spinning.
• Now, place the jack under the vehicle at the recommended jack point, generally marked on the undercarriage near the flat tire.
• Raise your car until the flat tire is off the ground, about 3 to 4.
• Now completely remove all the screws and remove the flat tire.
• Now, place the spare tire on the wheel hub. After that, lift the tire, align it with nut holes, and put it into place.
• Now, start tightening the nuts with lug nuts with your hand.
• Now, lower the vehicle back to the ground using the jack.
• Once the tire is on the ground, use the lug wrench to tighten the nuts in a star pattern to ensure they are tight.
• As a final step, check the air pressure of the spare tire. If it is low, head to the nearest gas station or tire service center to have it fixed.

How Long Can You Drive on Spare Tire?

You can’t drive on a spare tire all day long; There is a limit that you should know.

Temporary Spare Tires:

The temporary spare tire is only to be used for the short term. The temporary spare tire is made and designed to get you out of anywhere to a safe place or a tire shop, while some people drive it all day long. That’s why most car manufacturers, including Toyota Buyers, recommend that they drive the spare tire for about 50 to 70 miles.

Full-Size Spare Tires:

A full-size spare can be driven just like a regular tire. There are no speed or distance limitations with a full-size spare, but that doesn’t mean you should use a spare tire all day long. You should take your car to a mechanic, fix your regular tire, and keep the spare for emergencies only.

When to Replace Your Spare Tire:

If you can’t use your spare tire, that doesn’t mean it will work forever.

Regular Tire inspection:

Regular tire inspection is very important, and you should do that periodically. After some time, the spare tire loses air pressure, and its rubber also weakens. This can easily cause wear and tear, especially when exposed to extreme weather conditions. So, regularly check your spare tire and replace it if it becomes weak and unable to be used.

Age of the spare Tire:

Just like everything else, spare tires have an expiry date and a certain age, after which they start to deteriorate. The Rav4 spare tire is aged 6 to 10 years, and after that, you should replace it. You will find its age on the tire or in the user manual guide.

Final thoughts:

As I mentioned above, the rav4 spare tire is not an accessory but a proper vehicle part that can help you in the middle of nowhere. Most people throw it out to clear space in the back, but I suggest you not because it can save your life once.

I hope you understand the topic, but if you still have any questions, then ask them in the comment section, and I will get back to you as soon as possible.