How to Remove the Spare Tire of Toyota Highlander?
2 Answers
Toyota Highlander removing the spare tire method is: 1. Open the rear door of the Highlander; 2. Open the outer cover plate of the rear compartment floor; 3. Lift the cover plate on the right side of the vehicle; 4. Loosen the adjacent screw to remove it. The Toyota Highlander belongs to the midsize SUV category, with body dimensions of: length 4890mm, width 1925mm, height 1715mm, wheelbase 2790mm, and fuel tank capacity 72.5L. The Toyota Highlander is equipped with a 2.0T turbocharged engine, with a maximum power of 162kW and a maximum power speed range of 5200 to 5600 rpm.
Having driven for over a decade, I've encountered tire issues quite a few times. Removing the spare tire on a Toyota Highlander is actually quite simple: First, find a safe place to park and engage the handbrake. Open the trunk and lift up the floor mat—the spare tire is secured underneath with a large central bolt. Use the onboard tools, usually a wrench or hook, to attach to the bolt and turn it counterclockwise to loosen. If it's rusted, don’t force it; apply some lubricant or tap it gently before trying again. Once removed, carefully lift it out—spare tires are heavy, so avoid dropping it on your feet. When reinstalling, align it properly and tighten clockwise. A word of caution: spare tires can lose air or degrade over time if unused, so occasionally take it out to check the pressure and wear to avoid issues during emergencies. It’s a good idea to lift the mat monthly to inspect and familiarize yourself with the process, saving you from scrambling during a midnight flat. After a few tries, it’ll become second nature and take just minutes.
