Range Rover spare tire won’t go

As an experienced Range Rover owner and mechanic, let me start by saying – shocking, I know that Range Rovers can sometimes experience issues with reliability.

I’ve owned multiple Range Rover models over the years, and I’ve seen and fixed pretty much every problem that can arise.

Today, I want to talk about one issue that I’ve encountered more times than I can count: the spare tire won’t go.

What models are affected?

• Land Rover Defender
• Range Rover Discovery
• Range Rover Evoque
• Range Rover Sport
• Range Rover Velar
• Range Rover Vogue

Signs and symptoms

If you’re here, you’re probably experiencing an issue with your Range Rover’s spare tire.

The most common sign of this problem is that you’re unable to lower the spare tire from its carrier.

You may hear the winch clicking as you try to lower the tire, but nothing happens.

In some cases, the spare tire may be stuck in place, refusing to budge.

List of possible OBD codes

There are no specific OBD codes related to a spare tire that won’t go. However, some relevant codes that may accompany this issue include:

• P0450 – (EVAP System Pressure Sensor Malfunction)
• P0451 – (EVAP System Pressure Sensor Performance)
• P0452 – (EVAP System Pressure Sensor Low Input)
• P0453 – (EVAP System Pressure Sensor High Input)
• P0454 – (EVAP System Pressure Sensor Intermittent)

Common causes

Here are some of the most common causes of a spare tire that won’t go:

• Cable issues: The cable that attaches the tire to the winch could be rusted, corroded, or broken, preventing the tire from lowering.
• Winch problems: A faulty winch motor could be preventing the tire from lowering.
• Alignment issues: If the spare tire carrier is not aligned properly, it can become stuck in place and won’t go whenever you try to lower it.
• Incomplete release: If you’ve previously lowered the spare tire and didn’t release the tension on the cable, it can prevent the tire from lowering all the way down.

Can it be fixed without a mechanic?

Yes, it’s possible to fix this issue without the help of a mechanic. Whether you decide to tackle it yourself will depend on the extent of the problem, your comfort level with car repairs, and the tools at your disposal.

Parts you’ll need to fix it

Some parts you may need to fix this issue include:

• The spare tire winch assembly
• Spare tire hoist cable
• Brake cleaner
• Lubricating spray

Tools you’ll need to fix it

Here are some tools you’ll need to fix the spare tire won’t go issue:

• Lug wrench
• Jack
• Ratchet set
• Torque wrench
• Socket set
• Wire brush

How to fix it

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to fix the Range Rover spare tire won’t go problem:

1. Locate the spare tire winch, which is usually located behind the rear bumper.
2. Remove the cover to access the spare tire carrier.
3. Check the cable to make sure it’s not corroded or broken.
4. Use a wire brush to clean the cable and remove any corrosion.
5. Spray lubricant on the cable and winch assembly to make sure it’s well-lubricated.
6. Use the lug wrench to loosen the spare tire.
7. Raise the jack to lift the car and remove the flat tire.
8. Clean the tire carrier and winch assembly with brake cleaner.
9. Replace the old cable with a new one if you see signs of damage.
10. Install the new cable and make sure it’s properly attached to the winch.
11. Lower the spare tire using the winch and make sure it’s properly secured in place.
12. Use the torque wrench to properly tighten the lug nuts.
13. Lower the car back down to the ground.

Potential alternative causes

While the above-listed causes are the most common reasons for a spare tire won’t go issue, other potential causes could include:

• A puncture in the tire
• A seized winch
• A malfunctioning tire carrier
• A blocked or dirty pivot

If none of the above solutions work, it’s best to bring your Range Rover to a qualified mechanic to have it looked over.

FAQs

 

Last updated and verified on 4th September 2023