How to Change a Tire on Toyota RAV4 [Step-by-Step Guide]
The Toyota RAV4 is America's best-selling SUV. The spare tire is stored under the cargo floor in the rear of the vehicle. This guide covers tire changes for 2020-2024 RAV4 models.
The spare tire is located under the cargo floor in the rear luggage compartment. Lift the cargo floor cover to access the spare tire, jack, and tools.
Position the jack under the pinch weld flange on the vehicle's rocker panel. Toyota provides marked jack points located about 10 inches behind the front wheel or in front of the rear wheel. These appear as small notches in the metal flange.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Pull over to a flat, stable surface away from traffic. Engage your hazard lights and set the parking brake firmly.
Warning: Never attempt to change a tire on a hill, curve, or in a traffic lane.
Put the RAV4 in Park and engage the parking brake. Place wheel wedges behind the tire diagonally opposite the flat tire.
Tip: For added safety, you can place the wedges in front of and behind the opposite tire.
Open the rear liftgate and lift the cargo floor cover. Remove the spare tire, jack, and lug wrench from their storage locations.
Tip: The jack is stored in a foam container. Remove all components before beginning.
Before lifting, use the lug wrench to loosen (but don't remove) all lug nuts on the flat tire. Turn counterclockwise.
Tip: RAV4 has 5 lug nuts. Loosen each one about one full turn while the wheel is still on the ground.
Locate the jack point notch on the rocker panel near the flat tire. Position the jack head under this notch. Turn the jack handle to raise the vehicle until the flat tire is about 6 inches off the ground.
Warning: Make sure the jack is stable and the head is securely engaged with the pinch weld.
Remove all the lug nuts and place them where they won't roll away. Pull the flat tire straight toward you and set it aside.
Tip: If the wheel is stuck, rock it gently from side to side to break it loose.
Lift the spare tire and align its holes with the wheel studs. Push it onto the hub until it sits flush. Hand-tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern.
Tip: Star pattern: tighten opposite nuts in sequence for even seating.
Lower the vehicle until the tire touches the ground. Use the lug wrench to fully tighten all nuts in a star pattern. Lower completely and remove the jack.
Warning: Remember: spare tires are temporary. Limit speed to 50 mph and get your flat tire repaired promptly.
Place the flat tire in the cargo area. Secure the jack, tools, and cargo floor cover. Check the spare tire pressure soon.
Frequently Asked Questions
RAV4 Hybrid and RAV4 Prime models have slightly different procedures due to battery placement. Consult your owner's manual for hybrid-specific instructions.
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.
Wheel Wedges
Blocks placed behind tires to prevent the car from rolling. Bricks or large rocks can work in a pinch.
Safety First
Always prioritize your safety. If you're in an unsafe location or feel uncomfortable, call roadside assistance.