2018 Jeep Wrangler Spare Tire and Wheel

Why Your Spare Tire System Is More Than Just a Backup

A spare tire is only as useful as your ability to access it when you need it most. Whether you're driving a full-size pickup on the highway, towing a travel trailer through the mountains, or navigating a remote back road, the complete spare tire and wheel system — the hoist, carrier, mount, cover, and the spare tire itself — must all work together flawlessly when a flat strikes. Neglecting any one component can turn a minor inconvenience into a dangerous roadside situation.

This category covers the full range of spare tire and wheel components for trucks, SUVs, vans, and recreational vehicles. Understanding what each part does — and what to look for when shopping — helps you stay prepared no matter the journey.

Exploring the Spare Tire & Wheel Subcategories

The spare tire ecosystem breaks down into several distinct product types, each serving a specific function:

• Spare Tire Hoists — On trucks and SUVs that store the spare underneath the vehicle, the hoist (also called a winch) is the cable-and-crank mechanism used to raise and lower the wheel. If this component fails, your spare is effectively inaccessible. Replacement hoists are among the most frequently purchased items in this category.
• Spare Tire Carrier Mounts — These are the mounting hardware assemblies that secure the carrier mechanism to the vehicle or trailer frame. Proper mounting is critical for safety and long-term durability, especially on heavy-duty or off-road applications.
• Spare Tire Carriers — The carrier is the structural component that holds and stores the spare tire itself. Options range from factory-style under-frame carriers for RVs and trailers to aftermarket swing-out bumper carriers for Jeeps and trucks.
• Spare Tires — From full-size matching spares to compact "donut" temporaries, having the right spare tire mounted and ready is the foundation of any roadside emergency plan.
• Spare Tire Covers — Exposure to UV rays, moisture, and road debris degrades tire rubber over time — even when the tire is sitting unused. A quality cover protects the spare tire from the elements and extends its service life significantly.

Top Brands in Spare Tire & Wheel

BAL — A Division of Norco Industries is a go-to name for RV and trailer owners. Their innovative Retract-A-Spare and Hide-A-Spare tire carriers feature universal, telescoping designs that mount under the trailer frame, keeping the spare off the rear bumper and out of the way while remaining easy to deploy when needed.

PullRite is best known for its industry-leading fifth-wheel and towing hitches, bringing that same engineering focus to spare tire hoist solutions for heavy-duty towing applications. Founded in 1978 and headquartered in Mishawaka, Indiana, this American manufacturer maintains high levels of quality and craftsmanship in U.S. facilities.

Continental is a globally recognized tire manufacturer whose spare tire offerings bring the same engineering standards found in their performance and touring tire lines. Continental's spare tires are a trusted choice for drivers who want a dependable backup that meets OE-level quality benchmarks.

Adco Products is a leading name in RV and vehicle protective covers, and their spare tire cover lineup is no exception. Adco covers are made from heavy-duty vinyl that is UV and cold crack treated, with reinforced seams and an elasticized back for a snug, secure fit — backed by a 3-year warranty.

Dorman is a well-established aftermarket parts supplier known for OE-replacement quality across a broad range of vehicle components. Their spare tire hoist and carrier offerings are popular direct-fit replacements for trucks and SUVs, making them a reliable option for restoring lost functionality quickly.

What to Consider When Shopping Spare Tire & Wheel Components

When selecting any part in this category, start with your vehicle type — a heavy-duty truck, a Class C motorhome, and a travel trailer all have very different spare tire systems with unique mounting requirements. For hoists and carriers, confirm frame width compatibility and maximum weight capacity. For covers, measure your tire's outer diameter carefully, as sizing is precise. And for the spare tire itself, always verify that the speed and load rating matches or exceeds what your vehicle requires. A well-chosen, properly maintained spare tire system is an investment in peace of mind on every drive.