Getting a flat tire is never fun, but if you drive a Jeep Wrangler or Wrangler 4xe, you’re already equipped to handle it like a pro. Whether you’re tackling trails near Stockton, cruising through Woodbridge, or exploring the roads of Lockeford and Armstrong, knowing how to use your Jeep’s spare tire can keep your adventure rolling.
This step-by-step guide will walk you through the Jeep tire change steps, from locating your Jeep spare tire to safely swapping it out and getting back on the road. With the right knowledge and tools, you’ll be prepared for anything the journey throws your way.
Need expert assistance or a full-sized replacement? Visit or contact Lodi CDJR—our team is here to help with all your Jeep maintenance and service needs!
Finding a Safe Spot to Change Your Tire
A flat tire can happen anywhere. Whether you’re driving through Stockton, Woodbridge, Lockeford, or Armstrong, safety comes first. Before you start the Jeep tire change steps, find a secure place to pull over.
Where to Stop
Look for:
- A flat, stable surface away from traffic
- A well-lit area if driving at night
- A parking lot or wide shoulder when possible
Avoid:
- Soft ground that could cause the jack to sink
- Curves or hills where visibility is low
- Busy streets or highways if safer options exist
Secure Your Jeep Before Starting
Once you stop, take these steps:
- Turn on your hazard lights – This alerts other drivers.
- Engage the parking brake – Prevents the Jeep from rolling.
- Check your spare tire location – Most Wrangler and Wrangler 4xe models have a spare mounted on the tailgate.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
- Watch for passing cars before stepping out.
- If you have a warning triangle, place it a few feet behind your Jeep.
- If you’re near traffic, exit from the opposite side when possible.
Gathering Your Tools Before You Begin
Before starting the Jeep tire change steps, make sure you have the right tools. This will help you change the tire fast and safe.
Every Wrangler and Wrangler 4xe comes with the basic tools for a tire change. These include:
Tool & Purpose
- Jack – Lifts the Jeep off the ground
- Lug wrench – Loosens and tightens the lug nuts
- Spare tire – Replaces the flat tire
Where to Find Your Tools
- The Jeep spare tire location depends on the model. Most Wrangler models have it mounted on the back.
- The jack and lug wrench are stored inside the Jeep, often under the cargo area or back seats.
Check Before You Start
- Make sure all tools are in good shape.
- If you have a tire pressure gauge, keep it handy.
- If it’s dark, use a flashlight or your phone’s light.
With your tools ready, you can move to the next step: Jeep spare tire removal and replacing the flat tire.
Loosening the Lug Nuts Before Lifting Your Jeep
Before lifting your Wrangler off the ground, you need to loosen the lug nuts. This makes it easier to remove the flat tire.
Why Loosen First?
- A raised Jeep can shift if you apply too much force.
- Lug nuts can be very tight and harder to remove once the wheel is in the air.
Steps to Loosen Lug Nuts
- Find the lug wrench – This is usually stored near the jack.
- Locate the lug nuts – They hold the wheel in place.
- Turn counterclockwise – Use firm, steady force to break them loose.
- Loosen, but don’t remove – Keep them in place until the Jeep is lifted.
Helpful Tips
- If a nut won’t budge, use your foot to press down on the wrench.
- A breaker bar or extension can help with extra leverage.
- Make sure all nuts are loose before moving to the next step.
Once the lug nuts are loose, you’re ready to lift the Jeep and start the Jeep spare tire removal process.
Positioning the Jack and Lifting the Jeep
Now that the lug nuts are loose, it’s time to lift your Wrangler safely. Proper jack placement is key to avoiding damage or injury.
Where to Place the Jack
Your Wrangler 4xe has specific jack points designed to handle its weight. Placing the jack in the wrong spot can be dangerous.
Follow these steps to find the right location:
- Check your owner’s manual – It shows the exact jack points for your model.
- Look under the Jeep – Jack points are usually near the wheels on the vehicle’s frame.
- Make sure the surface is firm – Soft ground can cause the jack to sink or shift.
Lifting the Jeep
Once the jack is in place, follow these Jeep tire change steps to lift the vehicle safely:
- Turn the jack handle – Slowly raise the Jeep until the flat tire is off the ground.
- Keep an eye on stability – If the jack leans or moves, lower the Jeep and reposition.
- Do not go too high – Lift only enough to remove the flat tire and install the spare.
When the Jeep is lifted, you’re ready for the next step: Jeep spare tire removal and installation.
Removing the Flat Tire and Preparing the Spare
Now that your Wrangler or Wrangler 4xe is safely lifted, it’s time to take off the damaged tire and get the spare ready. This step is key to getting back on the road quickly and safely. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth process.
Taking Off the Flat Tire
- Once the Jeep is lifted, removing the flat tire is simple but requires care. A loose tire can be heavy, so always keep a firm grip.
- Fully remove the lug nuts – Since they were loosened earlier, they should come off easily. Turn them counterclockwise until they are completely removed. Place them in a secure spot so they don’t get lost.
- Grip the tire firmly – Stand facing the tire and place both hands on either side. Pull it straight toward you. If it feels stuck, wiggle it gently or tap the sides to loosen it.
- Set the flat tire aside – Lay it flat on the ground to prevent it from rolling away. If possible, store it in your cargo area or a safe place nearby.
Getting the Spare Ready
Before installing the spare, take a moment to inspect it. You want to be sure it’s in good shape before putting it on your Jeep.
Where to Find the Spare Tire
The Jeep spare tire location depends on your model:
- On most Wrangler and Wrangler 4xe models, the spare is mounted on the tailgate.
- Some Jeep models have it stored underneath the cargo area.
- If you’re unsure, check your owner’s manual for the exact location.
Preparing the Spare
- Check the spare’s air pressure – A poorly inflated spare won’t help much. If you have a tire pressure gauge, check it now. If it’s low, drive carefully to a service station once the spare is installed.
- Inspect the spare for damage – Look for cracks, cuts, or signs of wear. If anything looks off, avoid driving long distances on it.
- Align it with the wheel bolts – Lift the spare and match the holes to the wheel hub bolts.
- Hand-tighten the lug nuts – Place each lug nut back onto the bolts and turn them clockwise by hand. This keeps the tire in place before fully tightening later.
With the spare secured by hand, you’re now ready for the next Jeep tire change steps—lowering the vehicle and tightening the lug nuts.
Installing the Spare Tire Securely
Now that the spare is in place, it’s time to secure it properly. A loose tire can be dangerous, so take care during this step. Follow these simple instructions to ensure a safe and secure fit.
Aligning the Spare Tire
Before tightening anything, make sure the tire sits evenly on the wheel hub.
- Line up the holes – Match the holes on the spare with the bolts on the wheel hub.
- Push the tire in place – Press firmly to ensure it sits flush against the hub.
- Check the fit – The tire should not wobble or sit at an angle.
Tightening the Lug Nuts
- Lug nuts must be tightened in the correct order to ensure even pressure on the wheel.
- Hand-tighten first – Turn each lug nut clockwise by hand until snug.
Use a crisscross pattern – Instead of tightening one nut at a time in a circle, follow this order:
- Top
- Bottom
- Left
- Right
- Remaining nuts (if applicable)
This method helps prevent the wheel from sitting unevenly.
Lowering the Jeep and Final Tightening
With the lug nuts secured by hand, it’s time to lower the vehicle and tighten them completely.
- Slowly lower the jack – Turn the handle carefully until the tire touches the ground.
- Fully tighten the lug nuts – Use the wrench to turn each nut as tight as possible.
- Double-check each nut – Go around the wheel again to ensure none are loose.
Once everything is secure, you’re ready to go. Drive slowly at first and listen for any unusual noises. If something feels off, pull over and check the installation.
Lowering the Jeep and Tightening the Lug Nuts
Once the spare tire is mounted, the next crucial step is lowering the Jeep and ensuring the lug nuts are tightened securely. This step is vital for your safety on the road.
Lowering the Jeep
It’s time to carefully lower your Jeep back to the ground. Follow these steps to do it safely:
- Turn the jack handle – Slowly rotate the handle to lower the vehicle.
- Watch for the tire touching the ground – Ensure the spare tire makes full contact with the ground before lowering it fully.
- Stop once it’s on the ground – Keep lowering until the weight of the Jeep is resting on the spare tire.
Tightening the Lug Nuts
Now, it’s time to tighten the lug nuts properly to keep the spare securely in place.
- Use the lug wrench – Make sure the wrench is in the right size for the lug nuts.
- Tighten in a crisscross pattern – This ensures even pressure on the tire.
- Tighten the first nut at the top.
- .Move to the opposite side (bottom).
- Continue alternating left and right.
- Make sure they’re tight – Keep tightening until you can’t turn the nuts anymore.
Double-Check the Nuts
It’s important to double-check the lug nuts after lowering the Jeep.
- Check each nut – Go around the tire and tighten any loose nuts.
- Reassess the tire pressure – Ensure the spare tire is properly inflated before driving.
With the lug nuts securely in place, you’re good to go! Always drive cautiously after a tire change, especially in a Jeep like the Wrangler or Wrangler 4xe, until you’re sure everything is properly adjusted.
Checking Tire Pressure and Driving Safely
Once your spare tire is installed, it’s essential to check its tire pressure before heading back out on the road. This ensures the tire will perform safely and effectively while driving. Whether you’re using a standard spare or a full-size tire on models like the Wrangler or Wrangler 4xe, proper tire pressure is a critical part of vehicle safety and performance.
Check the Tire Pressure
Before you drive, you need to verify that your spare tire is properly inflated. An under-inflated or over-inflated tire can negatively impact your vehicle’s handling and fuel efficiency. Here’s how to check the tire pressure:
Get a Tire Pressure Gauge
A tire pressure gauge is a simple tool that measures the air pressure inside the tire. These can be found at most auto parts stores, or you may already have one in your vehicle’s toolkit.
Check the Tire Pressure
To use the gauge, attach it to the valve stem of the spare tire. When properly connected, the gauge will give you a reading of the air pressure inside. Compare this reading to the recommended tire pressure.
The recommended pressure can be found on a label inside the driver’s side door frame or in your vehicle’s manual. This ensures the tire pressure is within the safe operating range for your specific vehicle.
Adjust the Tire Pressure
If the tire pressure is too low or high, adjust it accordingly.
- To inflate – Use an air compressor at a nearby service station or use a portable air compressor if you have one in your vehicle.
- To deflate – Press on the small valve at the top of the valve stem to release some air until the pressure is correct.
Ensure the Valve Is Secure
After checking or adjusting the tire pressure, be sure the valve stem cap is securely replaced to avoid any air leakage.
Drive Cautiously and Safely
Once your spare tire is properly inflated, you can start driving again. However, driving with a spare tire, especially a temporary one, requires extra caution. A spare tire is not designed to provide the same level of performance as your vehicle’s regular tires, so it’s important to follow these key guidelines:
Limit Your Speed
Spare tires, particularly smaller temporary ones, are not meant for high speeds. Driving at high speeds can cause the tire to wear unevenly or even fail. Stick to the speed limit and drive at a slower pace, especially if you’re using a compact spare.
Most spare tires have a maximum speed recommendation of around 50 miles per hour (80 km/h). Check your vehicle’s manual for the exact speed limits.
Stay on Smooth Roads
A spare tire is not built for the rugged off-road conditions a Jeep may often encounter. Try to stay on paved or smooth roads as much as possible to avoid putting too much strain on the spare tire. If you’re on an adventure in your Jeep, it’s best to avoid difficult trails until you can replace the spare with a regular tire.
Monitor the Spare Tire
After driving for a short distance, stop and check the spare tire to ensure it’s still properly secured. Also, check the tire pressure again to make sure it hasn’t changed. If you feel any unusual vibrations or hear strange noises, pull over and inspect the tire. If needed, replace it with a fully inflated, regular tire as soon as possible.
Plan for a Tire Change as Soon as Possible
While your spare tire will get you back on the road, it’s crucial to remember that it’s only a temporary fix. Once you’ve checked the pressure and driven cautiously, try to make plans to visit your mechanic or tire service center to replace the spare with a regular tire as soon as you can. Regular tires are designed for the specific demands of your vehicle and will provide better performance, handling, and safety.
By checking the tire pressure, adjusting it as needed, and driving cautiously, you’ll be able to safely continue your journey until you’re able to replace the spare with a new or repaired tire. If you’re unsure about any part of the process or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to the team at Lodi Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram for support. We’re here to help!
FAQ
Where is the spare tire located on a Jeep Wrangler?
-The spare tire on a Jeep Wrangler is typically mounted on the rear tailgate.
How do I lower the spare tire on my Jeep?
=To lower the spare tire, you’ll need to use the tire hoist system located behind the rear seat or in the cargo area. Use the provided tool to disengage the hoist, then lower the tire.
What size is my Jeep’s spare tire?
-The size of your Jeep’s spare tire depends on the model year and trim. Generally, it matches the tire size of your regular tires but may differ depending on whether you have a full-size spare or a smaller temporary spare.
Do all Jeeps come with a spare tire?
-Most Jeeps come equipped with a spare tire, but some models may offer it as an optional upgrade or feature a smaller temporary spare.
What tools do I need to change a Jeep tire?
-To change a tire on your Jeep, you’ll need a jack, a lug wrench, and a spare tire. Your Jeep may come with a tire tool kit for this purpose.
How do I access my Jeep’s spare tire toolkit?
-The spare tire toolkit is typically stored in the cargo area or behind the rear seat. It may be in a compartment or on the tailgate, depending on your Jeep model.
Can I put a full-size tire as my Jeep’s spare?
-Yes, you can use a full-size tire as your Jeep’s spare, and it is generally recommended for better overall performance and safety, especially if you have lifted your Jeep.
How long can I drive on my Jeep’s spare tire?
-You should not drive on your Jeep’s spare tire for more than a few hundred miles and avoid speeds over 50 mph. Spare tires are designed for temporary use.
Why is my Jeep spare tire hard to remove?
-A Jeep spare tire may be hard to remove due to rust or debris on the hoist mechanism or the tire mounting system. Regular maintenance and cleaning can help prevent this issue.
Does my Jeep spare tire need regular maintenance?
-Yes, your Jeep’s spare tire should be checked regularly for proper pressure, wear, and any signs of damage. This will ensure it’s ready when you need it.
Can I use my spare tire on any wheel position?
-It’s best to place your spare tire on a rear position, not on the front, as it may not match the size and tread of the other tires.
How often should I check my Jeep’s spare tire pressure?
-You should check your Jeep’s spare tire pressure at least once a month or whenever you inspect your regular tires.
What’s the weight of a Jeep spare tire?
-The weight of a Jeep spare tire can vary, but it generally weighs around 40 to 60 pounds, depending on the tire size.
Can I upgrade my Jeep’s spare tire carrier?
-Yes, many Jeep owners upgrade their spare tire carriers for enhanced strength, better tire fitment, or larger spare tire support.
Will my spare tire fit if I’ve lifted my Jeep?
-If you’ve lifted your Jeep, you may need a larger spare tire carrier or a different size tire to accommodate the lift.
How do I secure my spare tire after use?
-After using your spare tire, securely tighten the lug nuts and check the tension to ensure it is firmly in place.
What’s the correct torque for spare tire lug nuts?
-The recommended torque for your Jeep’s spare tire lug nuts is typically between 75-100 ft-lbs, but always refer to your vehicle’s manual for the exact specifications.
Can I wash my Jeep with the spare tire mounted?
-Yes, you can wash your Jeep with the spare tire mounted. Just be sure to clean the tire and hoist mechanism to avoid rust buildup.
How do I prevent spare tire theft?
-Spare tire theft can be prevented by using a lockable spare tire carrier or a spare tire lock. This will make it more difficult for thieves to remove the tire.
Should I rotate my spare tire with other tires?
-It’s not typically necessary to rotate your spare tire with the others. However, if you plan to use it regularly, it may help to rotate it into your regular tire rotation schedule.
Explore More: Your Jeep and Adventure Awaits at Lodi CDJR
At Lodi CDJR, we want you to get the most out of your Jeep, whether you’re tackling rough terrain or just enjoying a weekend getaway. If you’re from Woodbridge, Stockton, Lockeford, or Armstrong, we invite you to explore our selection of Jeep models, including the Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler 4xe, and discover the perfect vehicle for your adventures.
If you’re considering more options for your family, check out our blog about 3 Great Family Vehicle Options From Your CDJR Dealer. It’s packed with insights on vehicles that bring together practicality, style, and versatility.
Or perhaps you’re looking for a vehicle that combines elegance and performance? Dive into our article on the Elegance and Versatility: The 2024 Wagoneer for a deeper look at this impressive model.
We also have something for those who enjoy a balance of adventure and efficiency. Explore 4 Reasons to Love the 2024 Jeep Compass, a compact SUV that can handle any journey with ease.
Feel free to visit or contact us at Lodi CDJR for more information on our vehicles and to get personalized assistance. We’re here to help you find the right Jeep or other models to meet your needs!
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