Everyone knows the importance of a spare tire, but you may want to know more about using and maintaining it. Understanding your spare tire will help you be prepared in case of an emergency.
In this article, I’ll cover the most important things you should know about your RAV4’s spare tire, including:
Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting my website.
It’s important to know where your spare tire is located so you can be fully prepared to use it. It’s also essential to inspect your spare tire regularly to make sure it is in good condition (we’ll talk more about spare tire maintenance towards the end of this article).
There are two different possible locations of your RAV4’s spare tire:
I’ve written instructions for removing the spare tire for different model years of the RAV4. Keep reading to learn more!
You should be familiar with how to remove and install your spare tire in case of an emergency.
The removal process is different depending on how old your RAV4 is, so I’ve written instructions for every model year.
Choose a model year for instructions on removing the spare tire:
If your RAV4 is 2012 or older, the spare tire is mounted on exterior of the rear door and protected with a cover.
Follow the steps below to remove the spare tire and cover on a 1994-2012 Toyota RAV4.
Open the rear door and unlock the latch handle on the bottom of the spare tire cover.
Close the rear door, then remove the cover by lifting it up and away from the vehicle.
Loosen and remove the spare tire wheel nuts, then remove the spare tire from the vehicle.
If your RAV4 is 2013 or newer, the spare tire is hidden underneth the rear cargo area.
Follow the steps below to remove the spare tire on a 2013-2022Toyota RAV4.
Clear items from the rear cargo area.
Locate the fabric handle and lift up the rear cargo floor to reveal the spare tire.
Remove the spare tire from the rear cargo area and replace the rear cargo floor.
Perhaps you’re curious how large the spare tire is or you may even need to order a replacement.
The spare tire sizes on RAV4s will vary.
An older RAV4 with a rear-mounted spare will carry a full-size tire, while newer RAV4s will have a small, temporary spare tire.
Here are the spare tire sizes for the Toyota RAV4:
If you’re not sure what these numbers and letters mean, read this article explaining tire sizes.
Earlier in this article, I mentioned that it is important to inspect your spare tire regularly. I recommend doing this every six to twelve months.
If you’re in an emergency situation where you have a flat or damaged tire, you’ll want to be sure that you can rely on the spare tire. This is why spare tire maintenance is so important!
Let’s talk about a few easy measures you can take to make sure your spare tire is in good condition.
The most common problem with the spare tire is low air pressure.
The spare tire may slowly lose air over time. The air pressure will also vary when temperatures change.
If your spare tire does not have the correct air pressure, you won’t be able to use it. This means you may have to call an expensive tow truck instead of simply using the spare tire.
The air pressure can be checked with a tire pressure gauge. A tire pressure gauge is important to have on hand in general. Your RAV4 will also show an indicator light on the dashboard when your tire pressure is critically low.
Next, you’ll want to check your spare tire for signs of aging and damage.
This is more of a concern with RAV4s that are 2012 or older since the spare tire is mounted on the exterior of the vehicle and is more susceptible to the elements.
The most common signs of an aged or damaged spare tire include:
See below for examples:
Bubble on the tire’s sidewallCracked rubber in the tire treadDry, brittle rubber on the tire’s sidewallBe sure to check your spare tire every six to twelve months to make sure it is in operable condition!
If you’ve broken or lost your spare tire cover, you’ll want to get a replacement.
Keep in mind this only applies to 1994-2012 Toyota RAV4s since the spare tire is mounted on the exterior.
The spare tire cover is important to keep your tire in the best possible condition. Without a spare tire cover, your tire will be exposed to the elements and will degrade faster.
Luckily, there are plenty of options for replacing the spare tire cover on your RAV4. You can choose either a hard shell or soft cover to protect your spare tire.
Here are some of the best spare tire cover replacements for the Toyota RAV4:
Learn More
Learn More
Learn More
You should always be prepared to use your spare tire. You never know when you might need it!
So you can be fully prepared, remember:
I hope this article helped you learn how to use and maintain your RAV4’s spare tire!
Toyota RAV4 mods & Accessories
Visit my shop to see the most popular modifications and accessories for the Toyota RAV4.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.
Thank you for supporting my website.
Many vehicles have their spare tire stored in the trunk. However, this is not the case with the Toyota RAV4. This vehicle has its spare tire mounted on its rear. A cover is then placed over the tire to protect the tire from the elements and add to the car’s aesthetic appeal.
How do you open the spare tire cover on RAV4?The task is easy. Below are the steps involved in opening the spare tire cover on RAV4:
Step 1
First, you will need to open the rear door of your RAV4. This allows you to access the bottom part of your spare tire cover.
Step 2
The second step is to unlock the latch handle at the bottom of your RAV4 spare tire cover. After the latch handle is unlocked the cover is now open and you can take it off.
Spare tire covers are common on RAV4s and Jeeps since the spare tires of these cars are frequently mounted on the back. Below are some of the reasons why you should use a spare tire cover:
UV and weather are the two things that harm rubber the most, and without the right protection, your car’s spare tire will be subjected to a lot of both over its lifespan. You can’t completely avoid it. And over time, this exposure can seriously harm your tire by weakening the rubber and producing sidewall fissures and other structural issues.
Now, if you use all five tires as part of your rotation program, this damage usually won’t be as severe. This is because driving keeps tires flexible. When tires are driven, their rubber flexes, heating up and somewhat expanding. The process causes the stirring of protective wax compounds, which rise to the surface, ensuring that the tire rubber is protected and in good condition.
Most RAV4 and Jeep owners regrettably never use their spare tire until there is a problem with an active tire. Furthermore, without that flexing, vehicles with unusable spare tires that are left on the tailgate are much more likely to experience early failure, sidewall cracks, or dry rot. If you ever find yourself needing the spare in the future, this is dangerous stuff.
So it only makes sense to protect your spare tire with premium UV and weather-blocking covers. Since tires are expensive, preserving the ones you already have is undoubtedly a wise investment.
If you’re like many car owners, you already have plenty to worry about in terms of maintaining your car. Winches, bumpers, soft top windows/zippers, and possibly even suspension components you’ve added over your travels are just a few examples. Low-maintenance items that are so beneficial can undoubtedly be a bonus.
A tire cover is a valuable and low-maintenance item you can add to your car.
They are easy to attach and detach from your car.
We all know that our cars can get overly dirty after some off-roading activities and tire covers are no exception. In such a case, many car tires can be cleaned while still attached to the vehicle, or you can easily remove them, clean and attach them back to the vehicle.
Besides cleaning, nothing much is required to maintain a tire cover.
Tires are pricey, as we have stated earlier. Furthermore, spare tires may be readily unbolted and removed if someone truly wants to steal one, unlike wheels on the ground. Security wheel locks are an excellent device to purchase and can help prevent theft of your spare tire, but a tire cover can do the same thing.
Both soft covers with a cable lock and hard shell tire covers with a locking mechanism effectively hide and enhance the protection of that valuable spare tire from prying eyes. The simple act of concealing a valuable piece can lower the likelihood of its theft by more than 50%, according to several studies by law enforcement.
In addition, most people seeking something to take quickly will pass if they factor in the additional time needed to cut off a cable lock.
A car tire cover is not a universal item, just like tires.
You can, however, find one that exactly fits your spare tire because there are so many various size alternatives available. This is crucial since, after all, keeping out the elements is the main objective, and an inadequate cover simply cannot accomplish that.
You can alter the cover’s material in addition to the fit. Which black do you prefer—the glossy black of vinyl or the rugged black of denim? For increased durability, do you want a hard shell tire cover? Maybe a soft cover with a transparent center so you can still show off those fantastic wheels you have while keeping the tire protected from the elements.
Not all RAV4s have spare tires mounted on their back.
The Sport Models of RAV4 that run on run-flat tires do not have spare tires mounted on their backs.
Yes. The Toyota RAV4 hybrid has a spare tire.
How Do You Remove the Jack on a 2013 RAV4?Removing the jack on a 2013 RAV4 is an easy task. All you need to do is to contract the jack by turning the main screw anti-clockwise, and the jack will come out easily.
How Much Does a RAV4 Tire Weigh?A RAV4 Tire Weighs about 22.7 pounds.
What Does “RAV4” Stand for in Toyota RAV4?RAV4 is the abbreviation for “Recreational Active Vehicle with 4-wheel-drive.”
Does the new RAV4 have a spare tire?Yes, The Toyoto Rav4 come with equipped with spare tire .
What is the cover over the spare tire called?A spare tire cover or spare while cover.
We hope this guide helped you understand the steps involved in opening the spare tire cover on RAV4.
If you rarely include the spare tire cover on your RAV4, consider always having it where it should be placed. A spare tire cover has numerous benefits as discussed in this article.
| DIY
| |||
Toyota Rav 4 - Video Lesson Model: Toyota Rav 4 MK 3, Xa30 - Years 2006-2013 Let's see in this video how to change a spare wheel on a Toyota Rav 4 by following these simple steps. Published 1 March 2022 by ScegliAuto other manuals you may be interested in
| Why does the Check Engine light come on? With this video tutorial we can understand why the engine warning light comes on. Watch the video! by ScegliAuto more videosPosted on 14 November 2022 by ScegliAuto Posted on 8 November 2022 by ScegliAuto Posted on 30 October 2022 by ScegliAuto Posted on 30 October 2022 by ScegliAuto Posted on 28 October 2022 by ScegliAuto Posted on 28 October 2022 by Scegli Auto Posted on 27 October 2022 by ScegliAuto Posted on 26 October 2022 by ScegliAuto Posted on 25 October 2022 by ScegliAuto Posted on 24 October 2022 by ScegliAuto |
We have already examined Toyota cars more than once in the Second Hands section.
Serious problems in terms of reliability were rarely found. And the weaker plots shone brighter in the blissful picture, which the Toyota RAV4 crossovers of the XA30 series of 2005-2014 also have.
The main thing you need to know about the 2.0 and 2.4 engines of the most popular AZ series (60% of cars for two) is that both units are from 2000 with minor changes (mainly in the exhaust gas aftertreatment system) migrated from Rafik of the previous generation. And therefore, they have a good chance of leaving at least 300 thousand kilometers before overhaul. The main thing is not to experiment with the quality and timing of oil changes. Otherwise, after 120-150 thousand kilometers, an early replacement of not only the chain in the timing drive, but also the piston rings will be required due to the progressive oil burn. Especially for once again modernized units younger than 2007.
Engines of the AZ series with a volume of 2.0 and 2.4 liters differ in cylinder diameter (86 mm and 88.
5 mm) and piston stroke (86 mm and 96 mm)
cylinder block — the thread for the cylinder head mount was too flimsy. But even with modernized motors, manipulations with the head still need to be done with extreme caution: if the thread is broken, coolant leakage and overheating will follow.
And do not forget that these motors are extremely fond of cleanliness - otherwise you will have to wage a hundred-year war with a decrease in idle speed to 500-600 rpm and subsequent vibrations. Among the opponents, in addition to the contaminated throttle, are the idle valve, injectors and the mass air flow sensor. Also, deposits are actively collected by the intake manifold and its flaps.
Otherwise, after 80-100 thousand kilometers, you need to keep an eye on the water pump ($ 70) and the crankshaft rear oil seal: they have a habit of leaking. And also manually, by selecting pushers, adjust valve clearances.
The two-liter "four" of the 3ZR series (38% of cars) that appeared after restyling in 2010 already has hydraulic lifters.
The unit of the 2007 model did not suffer from the threaded weakness of the block, but the complication did not benefit him: in addition to the mechanism for changing the Valvematic valve lift, the motor acquired a system for double changing the valve timing on the intake and exhaust shafts (Dual VVT-i) - the failure of its couplings ( 200 dollars each) often happens after 100-120 thousand kilometers.
The two-liter 3ZR-FAE engine is the most voluminous unit in the ZR series
The 2.5 AR series engine found on our ex-"Americans" younger than 2008 is considered the most successful. But his compatriot 3.5 of the GR series, also known to us from the Toyota Camry sedans, although it gives the RAV4 the best temperament, is itself more capricious. First, weaker ignition coils. And secondly, on specimens older than 2008, it is not uncommon for oil to leak from the rubber part of the two-piece tube in the lubrication system (later it was replaced by an all-metal one).
But I don’t advise taking former “Europeans” with a 2.
2 diesel engine of the AD series: Toyota is clearly better at gasoline engines. Diesel nuances are added to oil-loving and leaking pumps and gaskets at AD with the need for regular cleaning of the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve and the failure of injectors ($ 400 each) and a particulate filter after 200 thousand kilometers. But worse, after 150 thousand kilometers, microcracks may appear around the liners, leading to burnout of the head gasket and the penetration of coolant into the cylinders.
Japanese automakers rely on International Lubricant Standards and Certification (ILSAC) specifications to recommend motor oils. For third-generation Toyota RAV4 gasoline engines, oils with ILSAC GF-4 approval, developed in 2004, are recommended. However, in 2011, the ILSAC GF-5 approval came out with higher requirements for energy saving, environmental friendliness and engine protection, so this option is a priority.
For diesel engines with EGR or DPF systems, the manufacturer recommends ACEA C2 low-ash oils, but if these systems are not available, then the requirements are the same as for gasoline engines.
The recommended viscosity is 5W-30, while 0W-20 is more suitable in cold regions. The oil change period should not exceed 15 thousand kilometers, and in severe operating conditions it is recommended to halve it - especially for diesel engines, if it is not possible to constantly fill the car with high-quality Euro 5 fuel.
Toyota WS property level fluid is filled into the “automatic”. Control is prescribed every 60 thousand kilometers, but to increase the life of the box at the same frequency, it is better to replace it.
In the "mechanics" API GL-4 75W-90 level oil also needs to be changed at intervals of 60 thousand kilometers. But the variator has a replacement period one and a half times longer - 90 thousand kilometers (gear oil - Toyota CVT TC class).
First change of long-life carboxylate (OAT) coolant is required at 150,000 miles, then every 90 thousand. And do not forget to renew the brake fluid every 30 thousand kilometers for your own safety. Moreover, instead of the recommended, but outdated DOT 3, I advise you to use the best DOT 4 in terms of characteristics.
-Energy F Synth C2/C3 5W-30
For automatic transmission: oil G-Box ATF DX VI
For manual transmission: oil G-Box GL-4/GL-5 75W-90
For CVT: oil G-Box CVT
For cooling system: liquid G-Energy Antifreeze SNF 40
For braking system: liquid G-Energy Expert DOT 4
| Engine table for Toyota RAV4 (XA30) | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Series | Displacement cm³ | Power, hp/kW/rpm | Designation | Years of manufacture | Features |
| Petrol | |||||
| 1AZ-FE | 1998 | 152/112/6000 | FE | 2006-2010 | R4, DOHC, 16 valves |
| 2AZ-FE | 2362 | 170/125/6000 | FE | 2006-2013 | R4, DOHC, 16 valves |
| 3ZR-FAE | 1986 | 148/109/6100 | FE | 2008-2013 | R4, DOHC, 16 valves |
| 3ZR-FAE | 1986 | 158/116/6200 | FE | 2008-2013 | R4, DOHC, 16 valves |
| 2AR-FE | 2494 | 182/133/6000 | FE | 2008-2012 | R4, DOHC, 16 valves |
| 2GR-FE | 3458 | 269/197/6200 | FE | 2005-2013 | V6, DOHC, 24 valves |
| 2GR-FE | 3458 | 273/201/6200 | FE | 2005-2013 | V6, DOHC, 24 valves |
| Diesel | |||||
| 1AD-FHV | 1998 | 116/85/3800 | common rail | 2005-2006 | R4, DOHC, 16 valves, turbo |
| 2AD-FHV | 2231 | 136/100/3600 | common rail | 2006-2013 | R4, DOHC, 16 valves, turbocharged |
| 2AD-FHV | 2231 | 150/110/3600 | common rail | 2010-2013 | R4, DOHC, 16 valves, turbocharged |
| 2AD-FHV | 2231 | 177/130/3600 | common rail | 2006-2013 | R4, DOHC, 16 valves, turbocharged |
| Electric | 154/113 | 2012-2014 | |||
| FE - distributed injection; common rail - battery injection system; R4 - in-line four-cylinder engine; V6 - V-shaped six-cylinder engine; DOHC - two camshafts in the cylinder head | |||||
It's hard to blame Toyota for the inability to make reliable mechanical transmissions, and units for RAV4 (16% of cars) are no exception.
First of all, remove the spare wheel cover located on the rear tailgate; Then we unscrew the screws to remove the wheel. At this moment, we raise the car with a jack and unscrew the bolts to remove and replace the wheel with a spare one; now we screw the bolts crosswise, tightening them perfectly. We just have to place everything in the luggage compartment, and then put the wheel back on the tailgate! 
When the yellow light comes on, it indicates a less serious problem, however, when the red light comes on, it indicates a more serious problem, so the car should be stopped as soon as possible to avoid damage. The check engine light comes on when one of the sensors associated with, for example, the anti-pollution system detects a malfunction (eg too low or too high pressure in the turbine, clogged particulate filter, etc.). ). If you turn off the car engine and start it again and the light stays on, the problem may be in the electronic system. If the light does not go out, the best thing you can do is to see a mechanic as soon as possible for a diagnosis. 
