4Runner Spare Tire Clearance / Departure Angle issue when off-roading

[TRD_GUY]

For the new 4-Runner's, I've been concerned that with the spare hanging so low, it's gonna pose a problem in some situations. This was validated in another comparison vid I watched in another thread. The OEM spare (265) clrearly dragged when going downhill in the video. The larger wheels I've seen posted here that some are adding (275-295) are gonna present a real challenge as a spare.

 

[DustyLens]

That's a concern I have as well. But I think if you're ever out in the wilds with a flat you don't want the spare underneath the vehicle anyway, so hang it off the back.

 

[TRD_GUY]

That's a concern I have as well. But I think if you're ever out in the wilds with a flat you don't want the spare underneath the vehicle anyway, so hang it off the back.

The only challenge then becomes how will it fit in the garage? My SUV's and 4WD pickups fit in my garage, but adding length may be a problem. I'd have to see how it measures with a rack and larger spare.

 

[KTRAN]

The only challenge then becomes how will it fit in the garage? My SUV's and 4WD pickups fit in my garage, but adding length may be a problem. I'd have to see how it measures with a rack and larger spare.

If you don't wanna install a tailgate spare tire carrier, another option for off-road trips is to remove the spare tire from underneath the car and store it in your cargo area. No departure angle / scraping issues from spare tire then.

That's what some 4Runner owners have done...