
Different types of spare tires require different removal methods, as detailed below: Hidden Spare Tire: To remove a hidden spare tire, first unlock the anti-theft lock, lift the trunk floor panel, release the spare tire securing device, and then the spare tire can be taken out; Rear-mounted Spare Tire: To remove a rear-mounted spare tire, first unlock the anti-theft lock, remove the protective cover, use a wrench to unscrew the nuts securing the spare tire, and then the spare tire can be taken out; Undercarriage-mounted Spare Tire: To remove an undercarriage-mounted spare tire, first remove the dust cover, connect the screw socket to the screw port inside, rotate to lower the spare tire traction rope, and as the spare tire descends, it can then be taken out.

I often go on long-distance trips and have plenty of experience with retrieving spare tires. If your spare tire is mounted under the vehicle, first locate the jack and wrench in the trunk—they're usually in the toolkit. Crawl under the car to find the securing bolt, then loosen it counterclockwise with the wrench, and the spare will slowly lower. If the spare is stored beneath the trunk floor, lift the mat to reveal the securing mechanism—just rotate the handle or release the latch to remove it. Be careful not to scratch the paint when retrieving it; wearing gloves is recommended as spare tires can be quite heavy. After removal, check the tire pressure and rubber condition for aging—replace it if worn, or it might fail when you need it most. Remember, most spare tires are not full-size, so don’t exceed 80 km/h, and head to a repair shop as soon as possible.

Removing the spare tire is actually not difficult. For most vehicles, the spare tire is located either underneath the car or beneath the trunk floor. For undercarriage spares, use the onboard tools to loosen the hoisting mechanism and rotate the screw to lower the spare tire. Spare tires in the trunk are much simpler—just lift the floor mat and release the securing clips. Before starting, remember to engage the parking brake for safety and use a jack to lift the vehicle for easier access. After removing the spare, don’t forget to clean dust from the storage area, as prolonged disuse can lead to rust. When installing a new tire, align the bolt holes, hand-tighten first, then secure with a wrench to prevent misalignment. Regularly checking the spare tire’s condition is crucial—insufficient tire pressure renders it useless in emergencies.

I came up with a few tips while changing a spare tire in the parking lot. First, locate the tools correctly - sedan tools are usually on the side of the trunk or under the floor panel. For SUVs, the spare is often mounted underneath the rear, requiring you to crawl under to find the attachment point and release the hook. Always prioritize safety - never change tires on slopes or curves. After removing the spare, check for cracks by running your hand over the tread and listen for a clear sound when tapping it. For long-stored spares, deflate slightly then reinflate to reactivate the rubber. Secure the original tire properly before driving to prevent dangerous movement in the trunk. Remember, spares are temporary - limit use to 300km maximum and visit a repair shop promptly.


