How to Reattach Spare Tire on a 2006 Lexus RX 400h After Hitch Install

Updated 06/05/2018 | Published 06/01/2018

Question:

How do you get the full size spare tire back in place without removing the hitch. The tire hits on the front cross member suspension and hitch. There is no clearance for it to pull up into place.

asked by: Charlie K

Expert Reply:

The Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 13530 is a confirmed fit for a 2006 Lexus RX 400h with the "factory" spare tire. The factory spare tire would have came mounted to a steel wheel with a black plastic cover placed over it (see video). If you have an aluminum wheel under the vehicle then this was not installed from the factory and I cannot guarantee it will be able to be reused with the above hitch.

If you do have the factory spare tire with steel wheel then what you are going to want to do in order to attach it to the vehicle with the hitch installed is first wedge the tire up over the hitch and then use the winch to pull it back into place. The fit will be tight and you will need to maneuver the tire but it will work.

expert reply by: Conner L