Troubleshooting Thule Spare Me Bike Rack that Won't Fit RAV4 Due to Spare Tire Flange

Question:

My 2012 RAV4 has a metal half-moon flange that helps support and hold up the spare tire. My current mount adapter for the Spare Me 2 does not fit over this. It looks like I will either need to cut off the flange, or install the mount through the back of the spare tire. Is there a mount that will be compatible with this spare tire setup?

asked by: Alli

Expert Reply:

Sounds like you have the original version of the Thule Spare Me, part # TH963, which won't fit on your RAV4 because of the protruding flange on your spare tire mounting plate. The later versions of the Spare Me, TH963XT, TH963XTR and the current version, # TH963PRO provide a redesigned mounting plate that allow the rack to fit..

Thule redesigned that # 753-3532 mounting plate so it will fit your RAV4, so if you get the new mounting plate, it will allow you to use your rack on your 2012 RAV4.

expert reply by: Jameson C