Removing and storing the spare tire

Figure 1. Hybrid vehicle
OMQ4060039L
Figure 2. Plug-in hybrid vehicle
OMQ4PH060012L

Your spare tire is stored underneath your vehicle, directly below the cargo area.

To remove the spare tire:

  1. Open the liftgate.

  2. Find the spare tire fixing bolt cover and remove the cover.

    If necessary, separate the tool case only after removing the clamp.

    Figure 3. Hybrid vehicle
    OMQ4060040L
    Figure 4. Plug-in hybrid vehicle
    OMQ4PH060013L

  3. Connect the socket and wheel lug nut wrench.

  4. Use the wheel lug nut wrench to loosen the bolt enough to lower the spare tire.

    Turn the wrench counterclockwise until the spare tire reaches the ground.

    OMQ4060041L

  5. After the spare tire reaches the ground, continue to turn the wrench counterclockwise, and draw the spare tire outside. Never rotate the wrench excessively, otherwise the spare tire carrier may be damaged.

  6. Remove the retainer (1) from the center of the spare tire.

OMQ4060042L

To store the spare tire:

  1. Lay the tire on the ground with the valve stem facing up.

  2. Place the wheel under the vehicle and install the retainer (1) through the wheel center.

  3. Turn the wrench clockwise until it clicks.

WARNING

Touching surface of the luggage room floor

Do not touch the metal surface of the luggage room floor while the engine is operating or hot. Doing so could result in serious bodily injury.

Turn the engine off and wait until it cools down or wear gloves to remove the spare tire from the luggage room.