Spare Tire Relocation Kit

What Is a Spare Tire Relocation Kit?

When you lift your truck or Jeep and upgrade to larger tires, the factory spare tire mount quickly becomes a liability rather than an asset. Spare tire relocation kits solve this problem by repositioning your spare to a new mounting location — either higher up on the tailgate, outward from the bumper, or onto a bed rack system — so your oversized spare fits safely and securely without stressing the factory hardware.

Factory spare tire mounts are engineered around the original tire size that came with the vehicle. Once tire sizes grow beyond what the factory mount can reasonably support, the stock carrier can sag, warp, or vibrate, causing accelerated wear on your tailgate and surrounding bodywork. A purpose-built relocation kit addresses all of these issues with reinforced steel brackets, proper geometry, and often a no-drill bolt-on installation.

Why You Need One After a Lift

Lifted trucks running oversized tires face a particular challenge: the spare under the bed or mounted on the tailgate often no longer matches the running tires in size, and even if it does, the stock mount may not be rated for the added weight. Once tire sizes reach 35 inches or larger, upgrading to a stronger spare tire solution becomes an important part of the build. A quality relocation kit not only keeps your spare accessible in an emergency, but it also protects your tailgate from excessive warping or sagging under the weight of a heavier wheel and tire assembly.

Key Considerations When Shopping

• Tire Size Compatibility: Always confirm the kit is rated for your specific tire diameter and wheel backspacing. Many kits are designed for tires in the 33–37-inch range, while others accommodate up to 40 inches or more.
• Vehicle Fitment: Spare tire relocation kits are often vehicle-specific. Verify compatibility with your exact year, make, and model before purchasing.
• Mounting Style: Kits vary between tailgate-mounted, bumper-mounted, and bed rack-mounted styles. Consider your existing bumper setup and how you use the vehicle.
• Installation: Look for kits that bolt onto factory mounts without drilling, which makes installation easier and preserves your vehicle's factory structure.
• Brake Light Clearance: Raising a spare tire higher on the tailgate can obstruct the third brake light — check that your kit accounts for this or plan accordingly.

Top Brands in Spare Tire Relocation Kits

Skyjacker Suspension is one of the most trusted names in this category, offering relocation kits for Jeep Wrangler JK and JL models that feature adjustable brackets to accommodate tires from 33 to 37 inches, with no drilling required. Their combo kits pair a spare tire relocator with a tailgate saver bar, protecting your tailgate from the weight and movement of an oversized spare.

Steelcraft brings heavy-duty steel construction to their spare tire relocation solutions, with options designed specifically for Jeep Wrangler applications. Their kits are built to carry up to 35-inch tires and are finished with a textured black powder coat for lasting durability.

Road Armor takes a truck-centric approach with their TRECK OEM Spare Tire Winch Relocation Mount, which integrates directly with their bed rack systems for trucks like the Chevrolet Silverado and Ford Ranger. Constructed from 11-gauge steel with a five-stage textured black powder coat finish, Road Armor's relocation mounts are backed by a lifetime warranty against breakage.