Spare Tire Carriers & Related

What is a spare tire winch and where is it located?

While most passenger cars have the spare tire concealed underneath the trunk mat, many trucks, SUVs, and vans keep the spare tire underneath the chassis of the vehicle. The tire is held in place there by a device called a spare tire winch, also referred to as a spare tire carrier, spare tire hoist, or spare tire mount. The spare tire is held on the end of a cable, which can be lowered to let down the spare tire. 

The driver lets down the spare tire by hand cranking a winch, which lets out the cable. The winch can usually be turned with a lug wrench, or with a special tool that comes with the vehicle. You can find the winch underneath your vehicle, near the back bumper—that’s under the bed, if we’re talking about a pickup truck.

How do I know if my spare tire hoist needs to be replaced?

A faulty spare tire hoist assembly is the kind of problem you only come across once it's too late. You need to change your tire and you can't lower the spare. In some cases, the spare might lower only a couple of inches. The usual cause of this is a rusted or corroded winch cable. The winch is constantly exposed to water, dirt, and salt from the road. Debris can also get jammed inside the winch, jamming it up. Keep in mind, the longer it's been since you've looked at the winch, the worse the problem could be.   

Can I replace a spare tire winch myself?

Replacing the winch is, in itself, an easy task. The winch is secured to the chassis by a small number of bolts. You can simply unbolt the old winch and bolt the new one into place. Problems arise if you can’t reach the bolts, though. If you can’t lower the tire, or can only lower it a little bit, you may not be able to access the bolts. If the tire lowers somewhat, you might be able to cut the cable. Otherwise, you’ll have to find some way to release the tire from the cable. Some spare tire carriers were designed to release the tire under certain circumstances that your owner’s manual will describe.  

Need a replacement spare tire mounting hoist?

If you are in need of a replacement spare tire winch assembly, then you have come to the right place! At 1A Auto you will find a large selection of spare tire carriers for many makes and models, and at great prices. This spare tire carrier is just what you need to get your vehicle in good working form again!

At 1A Auto, we make shopping for a spare tire winch assembly for your vehicle easy - we're here to help you select the right carrier! Call our customer service toll free at 888-844-3393 if you have any questions about our aftermarket spare tire hoists, warranty, compatibility or to purchase, or you can buy online.