Pickup Truck2020-2024
20 min
Moderate

How to Change a Tire on RAM 1500 [Complete Guide]

The RAM 1500 is a popular full-size pickup truck. The spare tire is located under the truck bed at the rear.

Spare Tire Location

The spare tire is mounted under the truck bed at the rear. Use the jack handle extension to lower it through the access hole near the rear bumper.

Jack Points

Position the jack under the frame rail at the designated lift points. These are typically located about 12 inches behind the front wheel or in front of the rear wheel.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1
Find a Safe Location

Pull over to a flat, stable surface away from traffic. Turn on hazard lights and engage the parking brake.

Find a Safe Location
2
Secure the Vehicle

Place in Park and set the parking brake firmly. Use wheel wedges on the opposite tire.

Secure the Vehicle
3
Lower the Spare Tire

Locate the spare tire winch access hole near the rear bumper. Insert the jack handle extension and turn counterclockwise to lower the spare.

Lower the Spare Tire
4
Loosen Lug Nuts

Loosen all 6 lug nuts on the flat tire about one turn each while the wheel is still on the ground.

Loosen Lug Nuts
5
Position Jack and Lift

Position the jack under the frame rail at the designated lift point. Raise the truck until the flat tire is 6 inches off the ground.

Position Jack and Lift

Warning: Never position the jack under the differential, axle, or suspension components.

6
Remove Flat Tire

Remove lug nuts and pull the flat tire off. Place it in the truck bed.

Remove Flat Tire
7
Install Spare Tire

Mount the spare tire onto the wheel studs. Hand-tighten lug nuts in a star pattern.

Install Spare Tire
8
Lower and Tighten

Lower the truck and fully tighten all lug nuts in a star pattern. Remove the jack.

Lower and Tighten
9
Stow Equipment

Secure the flat tire in the truck bed. Store the jack and tools properly.

Stow Equipment

Frequently Asked Questions

Special Notes

RAM 1500 models with air suspension should have the suspension set to entry/exit mode before lifting. Consult your owner's manual for air suspension procedures.

Tools Required
  • Car Jack(Required)

    A device used to lift the vehicle off the ground. Most vehicles come with a scissor jack, but hydraulic jacks are easier to use.

  • Lug Wrench(Required)

    A tool used to loosen and tighten the lug nuts on your wheels. Often comes with the vehicle as a tire iron.

  • Spare Tire(Required)

    A backup tire that comes with your vehicle. Check tire pressure regularly as spares can lose air over time.

  • Flashlight

    Essential for nighttime tire changes. A headlamp keeps your hands free.

  • Work Gloves

    Protect your hands from hot surfaces, sharp edges, and dirt.

Safety First

Always prioritize your safety. If you're in an unsafe location or feel uncomfortable, call roadside assistance.