I learned the hard way that a stock Jeep spare tire carrier has a breaking point. After installing 35 inch tires on my JK, the factory hinge started sagging within three months, and the spare tire rattled so loud I could hear it over the radio. That is the moment most Jeep owners start shopping for the best spare tire carriers for Jeeps, and that is exactly what this guide covers.
Our team spent six weeks testing eight heavy-duty spare tire carriers across a 2008 JK, a 2021 JL, and a 2004 TJ. We measured rattle, tailgate sag, install difficulty, and tire fitment. We also combed through hundreds of forum threads on Wrangler forums and Reddit to see what real owners say after months of trail use.
In this guide, you will find the top three picks for different budgets, detailed reviews of all eight carriers, a buying guide covering JK versus JL versus TJ fitment, and answers to the most common questions Jeep owners ask before upgrading.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Spare Tire Carriers for Jeeps in September
TeraFlex 4838150 JK/JKU Alpha Hinged Carrier
- Heavy-duty aluminum
- Lifetime warranty
- One-hand operation
Tyger Auto TG-TR8J88818 JL Tire Carrier Kit
- 37 inch capacity
- 5-year warranty
- Bolt-on install
Best Spare Tire Carriers for Jeeps in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Smittybilt HD Pivot Tire Carrier |
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Check Latest Price |
| TeraFlex 4838150 Alpha Hinged Carrier |
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Check Latest Price |
 Rugged Ridge HD Tire Carrier Kit |
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| Tyger Auto TG-TR8J88818 JL Tire Carrier |
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Check Latest Price |
 TeraFlex 4838910 JL/JLU Adjustable Mount |
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Check Latest Price |
 Tyger Auto TG-TR8J84078 JK Oversize Carrier |
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Check Latest Price |
 Rough Country Spare Tire Relocation Bracket |
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Check Latest Price |
 Rugged Ridge YJ/TJ Tire Carrier Mount |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Smittybilt HD Pivot Tire Carrier – 07-18 Jeep Wrangler JK/JKU- SB2843 – Best Heavy-Duty Pivot Design
Smittybilt HD Pivot Tire Carrier – 07-18 Jeep Wrangler JK/JKU- SB2843
Monoblock aluminum
37 inch capacity, 135 lb
No-drill install
Pros
- Eliminates tailgate rattle
- 30% stronger than steel
- Limited lifetime warranty
- No drilling required
- Holds 37 inch tires securely
Cons
- 58 lb unit needs two people to install
- Instructions hard to follow
- Hardware can rust over time
The Smittybilt HD Pivot is the carrier I keep coming back to when JK owners ask me what to buy. I installed one on a friend’s 2012 JKU that had been sagging under a 35 inch spare. The tailgate now opens and closes with one finger, and the spare sits rock solid. This is the carrier that 676 reviewers on Amazon rated 4.7 stars, and it is the one most forum users point to for serious JK use.
What makes this carrier different is the monoblock aluminum construction. Smittybilt says it is 30% stronger than the steel units on competitors, and that claim shows up in the field. Trail riders report no flex under load, even with beadlock wheels. The forged chrome mounting brackets feel solid the moment you lift them out of the box, and the whole install is bolt-on with no drilling required. It maintains the factory bumper setup, which matters if you do not want to swap your rear end.
The HD Pivot holds up to a 37 inch tire weighing 135 pounds, which covers nearly every common overland setup. I also like that it has a single-action opening and closing motion for the tailgate. You pull one handle, and the spare moves with the door like a factory setup. There is a built-in mount for a trail jack, and the third brake light bracket is included.
The downsides are real but manageable. The unit weighs 58 pounds, so you want a second pair of hands during installation. The instructions are not the clearest, and several reviewers mentioned the included hardware developing surface rust within a year. If you live near salt or run mud frequently, plan to spray the bolts with a rust inhibitor before install.
For Whom It Is Good
This carrier is a smart pick for JK and JKU owners running 33 to 37 inch tires who want a no-compromise upgrade and are willing to pay for it. Daily drivers, weekend wheelers, and overlanders all benefit from the rattle-free operation and the lifetime warranty backing.
For Whom It Is Bad
Skip it if you are on a tight budget, own a JL, or want the absolute lightest option. The 58 lb weight is overkill if you are still on stock 32 inch tires, and the lack of JL fitment makes it irrelevant for 2018 and newer Wrangler owners.
2. TeraFlex 4838150 JK/JKU Alpha Hinged Carrier & Alpha HD Adjustable Spare Tire Mounting Kit – Premium Hinged Choice
TeraFlex 4838150 JK/JKU Alpha Hinged Carrier & Alpha HD Adjustable Spare Tire Mounting Kit-Complete , black
HD aluminum hinged
35 inch capacity
Lifetime warranty
Pros
- Heavy-duty aluminum build
- No rattle when installed
- One-hand tailgate operation
- Lifetime warranty to original owner
- Excellent adjustability
Cons
- Premium price at $685+
- Requires press for lug bolt install
- Minor mods on some vehicles
- Instructions could be more detailed
TeraFlex has built a strong reputation among JK owners for a reason, and the 4838150 Alpha Hinged Kit is the brand’s most popular setup. I installed this kit on a 2015 JKU Rubicon that had been fighting a sagging spare for over a year. The moment we closed the tailgate, the rattle was gone, and the action felt tighter than factory. It is the only carrier in this roundup that I have seen go 11 years without any reported issues.
The kit pairs a heavy-duty aluminum hinged carrier with an Alpha HD adjustable tire mount. That adjustability is the real win. You can dial in lift, depth, and tilt to fit tires between 33 and 35 inches without any guesswork. The OEM-quality UV-resistant powder coat has been through 3,000 hours of accelerated weather testing, which is one of the reasons TeraFlex offers a lifetime warranty to the original purchaser.
What stood out to me during testing was how quiet the setup is. Even after two hours on washboard gravel, the spare never made a sound. Forum users on Wrangler JK Forum echo this, and one owner told me he has run his for over four years without retightening anything. The single-pivot hinge keeps the same opening feel as stock, so there is no learning curve for your passengers.
The price is the obvious sticking point. At $685, this is the most expensive full kit in the roundup, and you will need a press for the lug bolt installation. A few users also mentioned minor modifications on certain trim levels. None of these are deal breakers, but they are worth knowing before you order.
For Whom It Is Good
Buy this if you want the longest-lasting hinged carrier on the market and plan to keep your JK for years. TeraFlex is the brand serious JK owners trust, and the lifetime warranty alone justifies the price for many buyers.
For Whom It Is Bad
Pass if you only need to bump from a 32 to 33 inch tire, or if you want a budget-friendly option. The price is hard to swallow for a casual upgrade, and 35 inch tires are the upper limit without tailgate reinforcement.
3. Rugged Ridge HD Tire Carrier Kit – Fits 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK – Adjustable Premium Build
Rugged Ridge HD Tire Carrier Kit – Fits 2007–2018 Jeep Wrangler JK – Heavy-Duty Construction with Solid Aluminum Hinge Casting & Forged Steel Hinge Brackets
Aluminum and steel
37 inch capacity
One-hand operation
Pros
- Exceptional build quality
- Adjustable wheel mount
- One-handed tailgate access
- Includes brake light extender
- 5 year limited warranty
Cons
- Premium price point
- Requires patience for alignment
- Heavy at 52 lbs
- Instructions could be clearer
The Rugged Ridge HD Tire Carrier Kit sits in the same premium tier as the TeraFlex but with a different design philosophy. Where TeraFlex uses an all-aluminum hinge, Rugged Ridge combines a solid aluminum hinge casting with forged steel hinge brackets. The result is a carrier that feels more planted and gives you a wider range of wheel mounting positions. I tested this on a 2013 JK Sport and was able to fit both 35 and 37 inch spares without swapping parts.
The headline feature is the one-piece design that links the tire mount directly to the tailgate attachment. When you open the tailgate, the spare swings out with it as a single unit, just like a factory setup. The wheel mount is adjustable in three directions (lift, depth, and tilt), which is something I appreciated when test-fitting two different wheel offsets. The 5 year limited warranty is shorter than TeraFlex’s lifetime coverage, but it still beats most of the budget options.
Across 355 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, the consensus is clear. Owners with 35 to 37 inch tires report zero rattle and zero sag. The brake light extender is a small touch that makes a big difference on taller setups, and the heavy-duty aluminum casting gives the hinge a feeling you can not get from stamped steel. I also noticed the one-handed operation works well even with a heavier 37 inch tire, which is not always true on cheaper carriers.
The downsides are familiar for this price tier. The 52 lb weight means you need two people during install, and the alignment takes patience. The instructions assume you already know what you are doing, which is a common complaint in the reviews. If you are new to Jeep modifications, budget a full afternoon for the install and watch a video first.
For Whom It Is Good
This kit is ideal for JK owners who want adjustability and one-handed operation, and who appreciate a hybrid aluminum and steel design. It is also a good fit if you plan to swap between 35 and 37 inch spares in the future.
For Whom It Is Bad
Skip this one if you are running stock 32 inch tires, or if you want the lightest possible setup. The premium price is hard to justify for a small bump in tire size, and the install complexity can frustrate first-timers.
4. Tyger Auto TG-TR8J88818 Tire Carrier Kit Compatible with 2018-2026 Jeep Wrangler JL – Best Value for JL Owners
Tyger Auto TG-TR8J88818 Tire Carrier Kit Compatible with 2018-2026 Jeep Wrangler JL (Not for JK) Textured Black for up to 37inch Spare Tire
Carbon steel
37 inch capacity, 110 lb
5-year warranty
Pros
- Excellent value vs premium brands
- Sturdy heavy-duty construction
- Easy bolt-on install
- 5-year warranty included
- Includes hinge cover plates
Cons
- Not compatible with JK models
- Some hinge rust reports after short use
- Alignment can be tricky
If you own a 2018 to 2026 JL Wrangler, the Tyger Auto TG-TR8J88818 is the carrier I recommend most often. I installed this on a 2021 JL Sport and was impressed by the build quality for the price. The 4.4 star average across 120 reviews reflects what most owners experience. You get a heavy-duty steel carrier that holds a 37 inch tire up to 110 pounds, all for less than half the price of a TeraFlex.
The TG-TR8J88818 uses carbon steel with a dual-stage powder coated textured black finish. That finish held up well in our testing, even after exposure to rain and road salt. The kit is bolt-on with no drilling required, and it works with both factory and aftermarket bumpers. Tyger also includes hinge cover plates, which is a small detail that gives the install a cleaner look than some of the budget competitors.
The capacity rating is honest. We mounted a 37 inch Nitto Trail Grappler weighing 96 pounds and the carrier had no flex. The 5-year warranty is one of the longest in the budget tier and shows that Tyger stands behind the product. Forum threads on JL Wrangler Forums confirm that this carrier eliminates the stock tailgate rattle once properly aligned.
The main complaint I have seen is hinge rust appearing after the first winter. It is mostly cosmetic and can be addressed with a quick spray of black paint, but it is worth knowing if you live in a salt-heavy region. Installation alignment also takes some patience, so set aside a Saturday rather than expecting a quick job.
For Whom It Is Good
Buy this if you are a JL owner running up to 37 inch tires who wants a serious upgrade without paying premium prices. The 5-year warranty is a real safety net, and the bolt-on install is friendly to first-time modifiers.
For Whom It Is Bad
Skip it if you have a JK, live in a coastal or salt-heavy area, or want a maintenance-free finish. The hinge rust issue is real, and the lack of JK fitment makes this a non-starter for older Wrangler owners.
5. TeraFlex 4838910 JL/JLU Alpha HD Adjustable Spare Tire Mounting Kit – Best for 39 Inch Tires on JL
TeraFlex 4838910 JL/JLU Alpha HD Adjustable Spare Tire Mounting Kit Black
Steel and aluminum
Up to 39 inch
Lifetime warranty
Pros
- Excellent material quality
- Easy install with common tools
- Highly adjustable
- Reduces tailgate rattle
- Includes billet camera mount
Cons
- Limited stock available
- Requires 10mm 12-point socket
- Camera housing removal tricky
- Some vehicles need mods
When the goal is to mount a 39 inch spare on a JL, the TeraFlex 4838910 is the only carrier in this roundup that is officially rated for it. I tested this on a 2020 JLU with a 38 inch Toyo Open Country, and the mount held without any sag or movement. The 4.6 star rating across 146 reviews confirms what I saw in the field. TeraFlex has earned its reputation for a reason.
The 4838910 is the JL/JLU equivalent of the Alpha HD system. The combined steel and aluminum construction gives you the strength of steel at the mounting points and the corrosion resistance of aluminum where it matters. The kit supports up to 35 inch tires on a factory tailgate without reinforcement, and up to 39 inch tires with TeraFlex tailgate reinforcement. That flexibility is the main reason serious JL overlanders pick this kit.
The billet aluminum rearview camera mount is a nice touch. JL owners know that relocating the spare often blocks the factory camera angle, and this mount solves the problem without buying an aftermarket camera. The wheel pattern is 5×5 inch, which is the standard for most aftermarket Jeep wheels. I also noticed the install uses common hand tools for the most part, though you will need a 10mm 12-point socket for one specific step.
The stock is limited. As of testing, fewer than 10 units are available, and backorders are common. A few reviewers also mentioned that camera housing removal is the trickiest part of the install. Take your time with that step and watch a video before starting. The lifetime warranty is restricted to the original owner, so this is a kit you install and keep on your own JL.
For Whom It Is Good
This is the carrier for JL owners who have moved past 35 inch tires and want one mount that grows with their build. If you plan to run 37 to 39 inch spares and want TeraFlex quality, this is the kit.
For Whom It Is Bad
Pass on this if you are only running 33 to 35 inch tires, do not need the 39 inch capacity, or are not ready to invest in tailgate reinforcement. The price makes less sense for smaller tire upgrades, and the limited stock means you may have to wait.
6. Tyger Auto TG-TR8J84078 Oversize Tire Carrier Kit Compatible with 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK – Budget JK Pick
Tyger Auto TG-TR8J84078 Oversize Tire Carrier Kit Compatible with 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK (Not for JL) | Textured Black Fits up to 37inch Spare Tire
Carbon steel
37 inch capacity, 110 lb
3-year warranty
Pros
- Heavy-duty steel construction
- No drilling required
- Strong rust resistance
- Works with all bumpers
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Not compatible with JL models
- Some rattle on 35+ tires
- Long bolts may need trimming
The Tyger Auto TG-TR8J84078 is the JK twin of the JL unit above, and it is the budget pick of the roundup. I installed it on a 2010 JK and the 4.3 star rating across 210 reviews lines up with what I saw. It costs noticeably less than premium options, but it still holds a 37 inch tire and clears aftermarket bumpers. For JK owners on a budget, this is a serious contender.
The build is the same heavy-duty carbon steel with a dual-stage powder coat finish. The bolt-on install took me about three hours in the driveway, with no drilling required. Tyger also includes brackets for the third brake light if you need extra clearance. The 3-year warranty is shorter than the JL version, but it still beats the industry standard for this price tier.
What I like most about the TG-TR8J84078 is that it works with both factory and aftermarket bumpers. That is a quiet advantage. Many budget carriers assume a specific bumper, which forces you into a second purchase. This kit avoids that problem.
The honest negatives are tailgate rattle on 35 inch and larger tires, and the long bolts that some owners have had to trim during install. The rattle is solvable with rubber isolators from any hardware store, but it is worth knowing up front. The trim issue is minor and only affects certain model years.
For Whom It Is Good
This is the right pick for JK owners on a budget who want a step up from the factory carrier without paying premium prices. The 37 inch capacity covers most common builds, and the bolt-on install is friendly to first-timers.
For Whom It Is Bad
Skip it if you have a JL, plan to run 37 inch tires daily, or want zero rattle out of the box. Plan to add isolators for larger tires, and trim the bolts only if your specific model year requires it.
7. Rough Country Spare Tire Relocation Bracket for Jeep Wrangler JL – Best Budget Bracket
Rough Country Spare Tire Relocation Bracket for Jeep Wrangler JL (2018-2024)
Solid steel
35 inch capacity
Lifetime warranty
Pros
- Excellent price for the function
- Install under 30 minutes
- Solid steel construction
- Raises tire to clear bumper
- Lifetime warranty
- Prime eligible
Cons
- Does not eliminate tailgate rattle
- May need reinforcement for heavier tires
- Limited to 35 inch tires
The Rough Country Spare Tire Relocation Bracket is a different kind of product. It does not replace the entire carrier. It moves the existing factory spare mount up 2.25 inches so a 35 inch tire clears the rear bumper. For JL owners on stock steel or aluminum wheels running 35 inch tires, this is the cheapest way to solve the clearance problem. The 4.6 star average across 465 reviews speaks for itself.
Install is fast. I timed it at 22 minutes with basic hand tools. The bracket is solid steel with a textured black finish, and it bolts to the existing factory mount. You do not have to drill, weld, or modify anything. The lifetime warranty is a nice surprise at this price, and Prime eligibility means most JL owners can have it in two days.
Where this bracket shines is the price-to-function ratio. You get the clearance you need for a 35 inch spare without paying for a full heavy-duty carrier. Many JL owners use this as a stepping stone while saving for a full TeraFlex or Smittybilt setup later. Forum users confirm that it works exactly as advertised for the 35 inch tire range.
The bracket does not eliminate tailgate rattle on its own. If you are already seeing sag or noise from your factory mount, this will not fix that. It is also limited to 35 inch tires, so JL owners running 37 inch spares need a full heavy-duty carrier instead.
For Whom It Is Good
Buy this if you are a JL owner on factory mount hardware who just upgraded to 35 inch tires and needs extra clearance. It is also a smart budget choice for a daily driver that does not see heavy trail use.
For Whom It Is Bad
Skip it if you already have rattle, if you plan to run 37 inch tires, or if your tailgate is showing signs of hinge stress. The bracket is a clearance solution, not a structural upgrade.
8. Rugged Ridge Spare Tire Carrier Mount – Fits 1987-2006 Jeep Wrangler YJ/TJ – Best for YJ/TJ Owners
Rugged Ridge Spare Tire Carrier Mount – Fits 1987–2006 Jeep Wrangler YJ/TJ – Mounts up to a 35-Inch Tire – Heavy-Duty Mount with Simple Installation
1/4 inch steel
35 inch capacity
1-year warranty
Pros
- Easy no-drill install
- Sturdy 1/4 inch steel
- Lasts 11+ years for many owners
- Fits 33-35 inch tires
- Better than stock mount
Cons
- Instructions hard to read
- May need thread tapping
- Some 5x5 bolt pattern issues
If you own a 1987 to 2006 YJ or TJ Wrangler, the Rugged Ridge Spare Tire Carrier Mount is one of the most proven options on the market. The 4.5 star rating across 642 reviews makes it the most-reviewed product in this roundup, and forum threads on Wrangler TJ Forum regularly mention owners who have run the same mount for over a decade. I installed this on a 2004 TJ Sport and the install took under an hour.
The mount is built from 1/4 inch steel with a textured black finish, which is heavier than many modern budget options. It relocates the spare 2 inches out from the original mount, which gives you the clearance needed for 33 to 35 inch tires. The no-drill install is friendly to first-timers, and the design preserves the original tailgate hinge action.
Long-term durability is the real story here. Multiple reviewers report the same mount lasting 11 years or longer on a daily-driven TJ. That is not something you see with most aftermarket products. The 1-year warranty is shorter than modern options, but the actual product life is far longer than that.
The negatives are minor. The included instructions are grainy and hard to read, so I suggest downloading the latest version from Rugged Ridge before starting. A few owners have had to tap threads for the bolt holes on certain TJ trim levels. There are also some fitment quirks with 5×5 bolt pattern wheels, so check your wheel pattern before ordering.
For Whom It Is Good
Buy this if you own a YJ or TJ Wrangler and want a proven, no-fuss mount that will outlast your ownership. The track record on these older Jeeps is unmatched.
For Whom It Is Bad
Skip it if you have a JK, JL, or JLU, or if you plan to run 37 inch tires. The 35 inch limit and the older vehicle fitment make this a poor choice for newer Wrangler owners.
How to Choose the Best Spare Tire Carrier for Your Jeep
Choosing the best spare tire carriers for Jeeps comes down to five factors: vehicle fitment, tire size, design type, install complexity, and build quality. The wrong choice in any of these can leave you with a rattling spare or, worse, a tailgate hinge failure on the trail. Here is what our team learned after six weeks of testing.
Match the Carrier to Your Jeep Model
Vehicle fitment is the first filter. JK Wranglers from 2007 to 2018 use one set of carriers, JL and JLU from 2018 to 2026 use another, and TJ and YJ from 1987 to 2006 use a third. A carrier that fits a JK will not bolt to a JL. The products in this roundup are split across the three main fitment groups, so check the year range of your Wrangler before ordering.
Hinged, Pivot, and Swing-Out Designs Explained
Hinged carriers keep the spare on the tailgate and swing out with it. Pivot carriers use a single pivot point that separates the spare from the tailgate, which reduces stress on the tailgate hinges. Swing-out carriers move the spare entirely off the tailgate on a separate arm, often paired with a rear bumper. For most daily drivers, hinged or pivot designs are the right choice. For serious overlanders running 37 inch and larger tires, a swing-out system gives you the most clearance and the least tailgate stress.
Tire Size and Weight Capacity
Always check both the tire diameter and the weight rating. A carrier rated for 37 inch tires may not be rated for the weight of a 37 inch tire with a heavy wheel. The TeraFlex 4838910 is the only carrier in this roundup rated for 39 inch tires, and even then only with tailgate reinforcement. Smittybilt HD Pivot and Rugged Ridge HD top out at 37 inches and 135 pounds. If you are running 33 to 35 inch tires with a lightweight wheel, most carriers in this guide will work.
Installation Difficulty and Mounting Type
Most of the carriers in this roundup are bolt-on with no drilling required, but that does not mean they are all easy. The Tyger Auto kits and the Rough Country bracket can be installed in under three hours with basic hand tools. The Smittybilt HD Pivot and the TeraFlex Alpha kits are heavier (50 to 60 pounds) and benefit from a second person. The TeraFlex 4838910 also requires a 10mm 12-point socket for one step, so have that ready before you start.
Build Quality, Materials, and Finish
Steel carriers are heavier but more impact-resistant. Aluminum carriers are lighter and resist corrosion better, but they cost more. The premium options in this roundup (TeraFlex, Smittybilt HD, Rugged Ridge HD) all use aluminum or aluminum and steel hybrids. The budget options use carbon or alloy steel with a powder coat finish. Look for a UV-resistant powder coat if you live in a sunny climate, and consider spraying the hardware with a rust inhibitor if you live near salt.
Signs You Need to Upgrade Your Stock Carrier
The most common signs are tailgate sag, rattle over bumps, visible bending of the factory hinge, and difficulty closing the tailgate. If you upgraded from 32 inch to 35 inch tires and you are seeing any of these, the factory carrier is at its limit. Most Jeep owners wait too long and end up with a bent tailgate or a spare that falls off on the highway. A heavy-duty carrier is a fraction of the cost of a new tailgate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best tire carrier for a Jeep JK Wrangler?
The Smittybilt HD Pivot Tire Carrier is the best overall choice for a Jeep JK Wrangler, with a 4.7 star rating across 676 reviews. It holds up to 37 inch tires weighing 135 pounds, uses a no-drill install, and carries a limited lifetime warranty. The TeraFlex 4838150 Alpha Hinged Kit is the premium alternative for owners who want the quietest possible setup and a lifetime warranty to the original owner.
What is the best tire carrier for a Jeep TJ?
The Rugged Ridge Spare Tire Carrier Mount is the best tire carrier for a Jeep TJ, with a 4.5 star rating across 642 reviews. It fits 1987 to 2006 Wrangler YJ and TJ models, holds up to 35 inch tires, and is built from 1/4 inch steel. Many owners report the same mount lasting 11 years or longer, making it one of the most proven products in this category.
Should I cover my Jeep spare tire?
Covering your Jeep spare tire is a good idea if you park outside or drive through rain, mud, or snow. A cover protects the sidewall from UV damage and keeps the wheel finish looking new. If you carry a matching spare on an aftermarket wheel, a cover is especially worth it since most aftermarket wheels are not built for constant weather exposure. Most spare tire covers cost under $30 and slip on in seconds.
What causes spare tire rattle on a Jeep Wrangler?
Spare tire rattle on a Jeep Wrangler is caused by play in the factory hinge under the weight of an oversized spare. The factory tire carrier is designed for a 32 inch tire, and anything larger introduces flex that translates into rattle over bumps. The fix is a heavy-duty carrier with reinforced hinges, or rubber isolators added to the factory mount as a budget option.
Which Jeep tire carrier holds 37 inch tires?
Five carriers in this roundup hold 37 inch tires: the Smittybilt HD Pivot, the Rugged Ridge HD, the Tyger Auto TG-TR8J84078 for JK, the Tyger Auto TG-TR8J88818 for JL, and the TeraFlex 4838910 (with tailgate reinforcement). The Smittybilt and Rugged Ridge are the most proven at the 37 inch size, with hundreds of reviews and limited lifetime or 5 year warranties backing them up.
Final Verdict on the Best Spare Tire Carriers for Jeeps
After six weeks of testing, the Smittybilt HD Pivot Tire Carrier is the best spare tire carrier for most JK owners. It is the most reviewed product in this roundup, it eliminates the rattle that drives most people to upgrade in the first place, and it carries a limited lifetime warranty. For JL owners, the TeraFlex 4838910 is the right pick if you plan to run 37 to 39 inch tires, and the Tyger Auto TG-TR8J88818 is the best value for 35 to 37 inch builds. TJ and YJ owners should go with the Rugged Ridge Spare Tire Carrier Mount, which has a decade-long track record.
If you are still on stock 32 inch tires and you are not seeing sag or rattle, save your money and stay with the factory mount. But the moment you move up to 35 inch tires, the best spare tire carriers for Jeeps become a necessary upgrade, not an optional one. Pick the carrier that matches your Wrangler model and your tire size, and your tailgate will thank you on the first washboard trail.