How to Remove the Spare Tire of a Highlander?

[LaMolly]

Highlander's spare tire is located under the chassis. First, prepare the necessary tools including: the vehicle, a socket head, and a breaker bar. The following steps outline the specific operation method: 1. Open the trunk and locate a black cover. Opening this cover will reveal a nut. 2. Find the nut that secures the spare tire (the spare tire is fixed to the vehicle's chassis with a screw rod). Place the socket head over the screw in the black hole. 3. Then, insert the breaker bar through the hole in the middle of the socket head. 4. Turn the breaker bar counterclockwise. 5. At this point, the spare tire will drop down. Remove the protective panel beneath the spare tire to take it out.

[DeAutumn]

Last time when helping my buddy change the spare tire on his Highlander, experience taught me that finding the tools first is key. Locate the dedicated jack and wrench in the trunk, then crawl under the car to find the iron hook securing the spare. Use the wrench to loosen that large nut counterclockwise, but apply steady force to avoid slipping. Then slowly raise the car a bit with the jack to release the spare from its hanging state—be careful not to scratch the ground when pulling it out. I’d say regularly checking the spare’s position and condition prevents rust or seizing. The car’s underbody design tends to accumulate dust, so a weekly clean-up is good. After removal, check if the spare’s tire pressure is normal—if it’s too low, you’ll be in big trouble during the next sudden flat. The whole process takes about 10 minutes, but always ensure the parking brake is engaged before starting—safety first makes everything smoother.

[DeAnderson]

As a rookie removing the Highlander's spare tire for the first time, I panicked when I got a flat tire that time, but later learned to operate step by step. First, I found the jack and toolkit in the trunk - the wrench is essential. Locate the metal hook under the middle chassis, then turn the nut clockwise to release the spare tire (this step requires some strength - I needed help when I couldn't turn it). Then use the jack to slowly raise the car a few centimeters, and the spare tire can slide out. The common mistake is not seeing the nut direction clearly - I wasted tremendous effort. I recommend beginners first ask friends to demonstrate or read the manual. After removal, check the worn tire and replace it promptly to prevent next breakdown. Now I always carry tools when going out - quite practical.

[DallasMarie]

I love tinkering with my car, and removing the Highlander's spare tire is quite straightforward. Open the trunk to get the tools, position the jack securely, use the wrench to loosen the nut on the chassis's fixing hook, and twist it in the opposite direction to drop the spare tire. The key is not to force it—apply even pressure to avoid damaging any parts. After removal, don't rush to put the tools away; take a moment to check the spare tire well for any oil leaks or deformations. Regular maintenance can extend its lifespan, and the car's thoughtful design means even beginners can learn to do it within half an hour. Remember to operate on level ground for safety.