How to Remove the Spare Tire from a Toyota Highlander?
4 Answers
Toyota Highlander spare tire removal method is: 1. Open the trunk and locate a round cover, then unscrew it to the right; 2. You will then see a nut cap inside, which is connected to the spare tire; 3. Use a nut rotating tool to unscrew the nut; 4. After removing the nut, you can see the spare tire has dropped but remains attached by a thin wire; 5. At this point, simply tilt it to release the wire's loop fastener, allowing the spare tire to be removed. The Highlander is a vehicle produced by Toyota, featuring a wide body and innovative, spacious interior. In terms of dimensions, the Highlander measures 4795mm in length, 1910mm in width, 1760mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2790mm.
Last time my Toyota Highlander had a flat tire on the highway, I quickly found a safe spot to pull over, engaged the parking brake, and set up the warning triangle. The spare tire is stored on a bracket underneath the rear of the vehicle—you'll need to lie down to see it. The toolkit is in the trunk, containing a jack, wrench, and other accessories. First, I used the wrench to loosen the mounting bolts on the bracket. They might be rusty, so apply some force but be careful not to hurt your hands. Then, position the jack at the designated point on the frame and slowly raise the vehicle. Once it's lifted slightly, you can remove the spare tire. The whole process takes about 10 minutes, but remember that spare tires are usually smaller and meant for temporary use with a speed limit of 80 km/h. Every time I wash my car, I check the spare tire pressure and whether the bracket bolts are loose—this habit has prevented a lot of trouble. Flat tires on the road aren’t uncommon, so learning this trick is quite practical and can even save friends towing fees. During regular maintenance, remind the mechanic to inspect the tools to extend their lifespan.
To remove the spare tire of a Toyota Highlander, first park on level ground and engage the parking brake for safety. The spare tire is located on the spare tire carrier under the rear of the vehicle, secured with bolts or hooks. Open the trunk and retrieve the vehicle's tool kit, where the jack and wrench are essential. Before loosening the fasteners, check for rust on the bolts and apply lubricant if necessary. When raising the jack, align it with the designated lifting points on the vehicle body and operate slowly to prevent tilting. After removing the spare tire, remember to clean any debris from the carrier for easier reinstallation. Beginners often overlook that the spare tire is not full-sized and is only suitable for short distances; it's recommended to repair the main tire as soon as possible. After using the tools, dry and store them to prevent rust—I check the completeness of the tools during every maintenance, a habit that reduces unexpected hassles. Don't panic during a flat tire; this process is simple and becomes easier with practice. Remember to reduce speed when driving with a spare tire to ensure safety.
Safety first! When retrieving the spare tire of the Highlander, find a safe spot to park, engage the handbrake, turn on hazard lights, and place warning signs. The spare tire is mounted on a rear undercarriage bracket secured with bolts that require tools to loosen. Use the jack carefully, align it properly, and lift evenly—never risk crawling under the vehicle. After removing the spare, check its air pressure to avoid discovering issues during emergencies. Reinstall all tools afterward to prevent loss—a detail often overlooked. Remind family and friends to inspect the spare tire monthly, checking pressure to prevent aging. Stay alert on busy roads—this skill can be a lifesaver. Store the toolkit in a dry place to prolong its lifespan. Stay calm during a flat tire, follow steps methodically, and avoid disrupting traffic. The process is easy to learn but demands safety awareness—make it second nature.
