Spare Tire Cover

Why use a spare tire cover

A tire carried on the tailgate is exposed to sun, dust and rain. Ultraviolet light dries out rubber over time, and a cover helps limit that surface cracking. It also keeps mud off the paint and rear glass, and it hides a mismatched or dirty spare. Some covers add a pocket for a trash bag, tools or a first aid kit, and some have a cutout for a rear camera or brake light.

Match the size to the tire

Covers are sold by tire diameter ranges, such as 27 to 29 inches or 30 to 33 inches. Measure the overall diameter of your spare, not the wheel size, and also consider tread depth and sidewall height. A cover that is too loose flaps on the highway and one that is too tight is hard to put on. If you plan to upgrade to larger tires, consider a size range that will still fit.

Material and construction

• Vinyl and heavy-duty fabric covers shed water and wipe clean.
• Denim and canvas finishes can match a soft top or seat covers.
• Look for UV-resistant material, reinforced stitching and a drawcord or elastic hem that holds the cover snug.
• Organizers add storage but also weight and wind drag, so choose based on how you actually use the pocket.

Things to check before choosing

Confirm whether the cover has a cutout for a rear-view camera and whether it clears a third brake light or tire carrier. Some OEM-style covers include a logo that matches the vehicle brand. Fitment on a particular tire carrier depends on the carrier design, and a cover that fits a stock carrier may not fit a bumper-mounted aftermarket carrier. Confirm fitment for your year, make and model, and check the manufacturer's specifications.

Care and installation

Installation is usually a matter of slipping the cover over the tire and cinching the hem. Wash it with mild soap and water, and let it dry fully before putting it back on a damp tire. Remove the cover occasionally to check the spare's inflation, since a cover can hide a flat. A spare that has lost pressure is no use on the trail.

Maintenance and mistakes to avoid

Avoid placing a cover over a wet or very dirty tire, which traps grit that can wear through the fabric and keeps moisture against the rubber. Shake out the cover periodically and check the stitching along the hem. If your vehicle has a rear-view camera or a third brake light, make sure the cover does not block the view or the light. Take care when you change tires: a tire with a different diameter or width from the one measured will not sit properly. If you use the pocket in an organizer, keep heavy items out of it, because they swing and wear the fabric and the mounting points on the carrier.

Cleaning is simple: brush off dust, wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap, and let the cover air-dry. Avoid dryers and high heat, which can shrink vinyl and distort elastic hems.