Can Spare Tire Be Accessed After Mounting Curt Class III Trailer Hitch # 13530 on 2009 Lexus RX350

Updated 01/26/2025 | Published 06/21/2015

Question:

Can you get the spare tire out with the Curt trailer hitch installed? From the pictures you posted, it looks like it would be obstructed. Thanks.

asked by: Burt B

Expert Reply:

You will still be able to access the spare tire on your 2009 Lexus RX 350 after installing Curt Class III Trailer Hitch # 13530. If you refer to the linked photo you can see the hitch and tire positions after installation. The spare can be removed for a tire change by simply letting the forward edge drop first and then maneuvering the tire past the exhaust and the hitch cross tube.

expert reply by: Adam R

click to enlarge

David

1/25/2025

i have a similar problem with this Curt trailer hitch on my '08 Lexus RX400h. The spare (which has a TPMS) is wedged between the two angled cross members and i have to use a crowbars & rubber hammer to release the tire from the hitch frame. Re-installing the spare is even more stringent to put back into place underneath the car. Could the hitch be moved by a 1/2" or 1" rearward and make the mounting holes (elongate) into slip holes. Any answer or solutions would be appreciated. Thx Dave

Jerred H.

1/25/2025

@David I would not recommend enlarging the holes that attach the hitch to your frame. On top of voiding the warranty and losing all it's protections your hitch is going to slide back and forth every time you use it. You're stuck in a box with your Lexus and the Curt Hitch item # 13530. There's nothing you can really do but put up with it. A lot of the new cars you can't even reinstall a full-size spare tire if you add a hitch.

David

1/26/2025

@JerredH Thx for the reply, even though it hadn't solved my problem.