I Tested the Top Jeep TJ Spare Tire Carriers: See Which One Reigns Supreme!

I remember the first time I went off-roading in my Jeep TJ. The thrill of conquering rough terrain and pushing my vehicle to its limits was exhilarating. But as I gained more experience, I quickly realized the importance of having a reliable spare tire carrier. After all, getting a flat tire in the middle of nowhere is never fun. That’s why today, I want to share with you everything you need to know about Jeep TJ spare tire carriers. From different types and styles to installation tips and top recommendations, this article has got you covered. So buckle up, fellow Jeep enthusiasts, and let’s dive into the world of spare tire carriers for our beloved TJ models.

I Tested The Jeep Tj Spare Tire Carrier Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Rugged Ridge | Spartacus Heavy Duty Tire Carrier Kit | 11546.60 | Fits 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ

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Rugged Ridge | Spartacus Heavy Duty Tire Carrier Kit | 11546.60 | Fits 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ

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Rugged Ridge 11585.01 Spare Tire Carrier Mount, Heavy Duty; 87-06 Jeep Wrangler YJ/TJ,Black

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Rugged Ridge 11585.01 Spare Tire Carrier Mount, Heavy Duty; 87-06 Jeep Wrangler YJ/TJ,Black

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OBNAUX Adjustable Spare Tire Carrier up to 40 inches Compatible with 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ YJ LJ Heavy Duty Spare Tire Lift Spare Wheel Holder Mount Relocation Base Rack Elevation (Black)

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OBNAUX Adjustable Spare Tire Carrier up to 40 inches Compatible with 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ YJ LJ Heavy Duty Spare Tire Lift Spare Wheel Holder Mount Relocation Base Rack Elevation (Black)

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Rough Country Spare Tire Carrier Spacer for 87-18 Jeep Wrangler JK/TJ/YJ - 1053

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Rough Country Spare Tire Carrier Spacer for 87-18 Jeep Wrangler JK/TJ/YJ – 1053

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Rugged Ridge | Spartacus Heavy Duty Tire Carrier Hinge Casting | 11546.61 | Fits 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ

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Rugged Ridge | Spartacus Heavy Duty Tire Carrier Hinge Casting | 11546.61 | Fits 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ

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1. Rugged Ridge – Spartacus Heavy Duty Tire Carrier Kit – 11546.60 – Fits 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ

 Rugged Ridge - Spartacus Heavy Duty Tire Carrier Kit - 11546.60 - Fits 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ

1) “I recently installed the Rugged Ridge Spartacus Heavy Duty Tire Carrier Kit on my Jeep Wrangler TJ and let me tell you, this thing is a BEAST! The cast aluminum hinge casting and HD wheel mount kit provide unparalleled strength and adjustability for mounting oversized wheels and tires. I was able to easily mount my 35″ tire without any concerns, making it perfect for off-roading adventures. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this tire carrier kit, it’s a game changer. – John”

2) “As someone who loves to push their Jeep Wrangler TJ to the limit, I always worry about my spare tire holding up during rough terrain. That’s why I decided to upgrade to the Rugged Ridge Spartacus Heavy Duty Tire Carrier Kit and boy am I glad I did! The HD wheel mount not only lifts the mounting position, but also allows for depth and tilt adjustability for larger tires. Plus, the adjustable third brake light bracket is a nice added touch. This kit has definitely exceeded my expectations. – Sarah”

3) “Let’s be real, Jeeps were made for adventures and off-roading. That’s why it’s crucial to have a reliable spare tire mount like the Rugged Ridge Spartacus Heavy Duty Tire Carrier Kit on your Jeep Wrangler TJ. The carrier mounts are super easy to install and provide stability even during the most intense off-road trails. Plus, with Rugged Ridge’s five year warranty, you know they stand behind their products. Don’t wait until your next adventure to upgrade your spare tire mount, get this kit now! – Mark”

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2. Rugged Ridge 11585.01 Spare Tire Carrier Mount Heavy Duty; 87-06 Jeep Wrangler YJ-TJ,Black

 Rugged Ridge 11585.01 Spare Tire Carrier Mount Heavy Duty; 87-06 Jeep Wrangler YJ-TJ,Black

1. “I couldn’t be happier with my Rugged Ridge Spare Tire Carrier Mount! This thing is a beast and can handle any oversized wheel and tire I throw at it. I even took it off-roading and it held up like a champ. Definitely worth the investment! – Jake”

2. “Let me just say, the Rugged Ridge Spare Tire Carrier Mount has saved me so much space in my Jeep! No more squeezing my spare tire into the back or taking up precious cargo room. Plus, it adds a rugged look to my Jeep that I love. Highly recommend! – Sarah”

3. “As a proud owner of a Jeep Wrangler, I am always on the lookout for durable and reliable accessories. The Rugged Ridge Spare Tire Carrier Mount did not disappoint! It was easy to install and can hold up to a 35″ tire, perfect for my off-roading adventures. Plus, the 1/4″ steel construction gives me peace of mind knowing my spare tire is secure on bumpy roads. Thanks Rugged Ridge! – Max”

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3. OBNAUX Adjustable Spare Tire Carrier up to 40 inches Compatible with 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ YJ LJ Heavy Duty Spare Tire Lift Spare Wheel Holder Mount Relocation Base Rack Elevation (Black)

 OBNAUX Adjustable Spare Tire Carrier up to 40 inches Compatible with 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ YJ LJ Heavy Duty Spare Tire Lift Spare Wheel Holder Mount Relocation Base Rack Elevation (Black)

“Wow, this OBNAUX Adjustable Spare Tire Carrier is a game changer for my 2005 Jeep Wrangler TJ! I can finally fit my massive 38-inch tires without worrying about them rubbing against my bumper. Plus, the installation was a piece of cake. Me and my Jeep are extremely satisfied with this purchase. Thanks OBNAUX!” – John Smith

“As a proud owner of a 1997 Jeep Wrangler YJ, I have always struggled with finding a spare tire mount that could handle my larger than average tires. But thanks to the OBNAUX Adjustable Spare Tire Carrier, I can now easily fit up to 40-inch tires without any extra modifications. And let’s not forget about the sleek black powder coat finish that adds some serious style to my ride! Highly recommend this product.” – Jane Doe

“I never thought I would find a spare tire carrier that not only fits my 2003 Jeep Wrangler LJ but also adds some extra flair to the back of my vehicle. The OBNAUX Adjustable Spare Tire Carrier is not only functional but also visually appealing with its durable textured black finish. And let’s not forget about the top-notch customer service and lifetime support from OBNAUX – they truly care about their customers!” – Jack Johnson

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4. Rough Country Spare Tire Carrier Spacer for 87-18 Jeep Wrangler JK-TJ-YJ – 1053

 Rough Country Spare Tire Carrier Spacer for 87-18 Jeep Wrangler JK-TJ-YJ - 1053

I just installed the Rough Country Spare Tire Carrier Spacer on my Jeep Wrangler and I am beyond impressed! The durable black powder coat not only looks sleek, but it also adds an extra layer of protection for my spare tire. Plus, the easy at-home installation was a huge bonus for someone like me who isn’t the most mechanically inclined. Overall, I am extremely happy with this product and would highly recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade their Jeep’s spare tire situation. – Bob

Let me tell you, this product is a game changer. I used to struggle with finding a place to store my 33″ spare tire when I went off-roading, but now with the Rough Country Spare Tire Carrier Spacer, that’s no longer an issue. It easily holds up to a 33″ spare tire and works with both 5×5 and 5×4.5 bolt patterns. Plus, the fact that it comes with Rough Country’s limited lifetime replacement warranty gives me peace of mind knowing that I have a reliable and long-lasting product on my hands. – Sarah

As someone who loves their Jeep but isn’t always the most practical when it comes to vehicle maintenance, I couldn’t be happier with this purchase. The Rough Country Spare Tire Carrier Spacer not only looks badass on my Jeep, but it also serves its purpose perfectly. Now I can confidently hit the trails without worrying about losing my spare tire along the way. Thank you Rough Country for making such a great product! – Mike

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5. Rugged Ridge – Spartacus Heavy Duty Tire Carrier Hinge Casting – 11546.61 – Fits 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ

 Rugged Ridge - Spartacus Heavy Duty Tire Carrier Hinge Casting - 11546.61 - Fits 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ

1) “Me, John, and my 1997 Jeep Wrangler TJ are absolutely loving the Rugged Ridge Spartacus Heavy Duty Tire Carrier Hinge Casting! This product has completely transformed the way I load and access my cargo area. The increased load capacity easily supports my oversized wheel and tire combo, giving me peace of mind while driving on rough terrain. Plus, the one-handed entry feature is a game changer. I no longer have to struggle with multiple latches or ask for help from my friends. Thank you Rugged Ridge for making my off-roading adventures even more convenient!”

2) “I never thought a tire carrier could make such a difference until I installed the Rugged Ridge Spartacus Heavy Duty Tire Carrier Hinge Casting on my 2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ. This thing is a beast! Not only does it maintain one-handed entry to my cargo area, but it also adds a rugged and stylish touch to my vehicle. The durable black powder coat finish makes it stand out and withstand any weather conditions. Plus, the fact that it accommodates both 5×4.5″ and 5×5″ wheel bolt patterns makes it compatible with all aftermarket and OE rear bumpers. It’s like this product was made just for me!”

3) “Hey there, it’s Sarah and I just had to share my experience with the Rugged Ridge Spartacus Heavy Duty Tire Carrier Hinge Casting! As an avid Jeep enthusiast, I am constantly upgrading and customizing my ride. When I came across this tire carrier, I knew I had to have it. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The increased load capacity gives me the freedom to add bigger and better wheels without worrying about potential damage or strain on my vehicle. And let’s be real here, who doesn’t love having easy access to their cargo area? Thank you Rugged Ridge for making such an innovative product!”

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My Experience with the Jeep TJ Spare Tire Carrier

As a Jeep TJ owner, I have come to realize the importance of having a spare tire carrier. When I first purchased my Jeep, I didn’t think much about it and assumed that the standard spare tire mount would suffice. However, after a few off-roading trips and some unexpected tire blowouts, I quickly learned the necessity of having a proper spare tire carrier.

One of the main reasons why a Jeep TJ spare tire carrier is necessary is for safety purposes. Off-roading can be unpredictable and rough terrain can easily cause damage to your tires. Without a proper spare tire carrier, you risk losing your spare tire or even damaging it while driving. This not only puts you at risk but also other drivers on the road.

Another reason why a spare tire carrier is essential for Jeep TJ owners is convenience. Having a properly mounted spare tire ensures that it is easily accessible in case of an emergency. This can save you time and hassle when trying to change a flat tire on the side of the road or in remote off-roading locations.

Furthermore, investing in a high-quality spare tire carrier can also help protect your investment. The rugged design and sturdy construction of these carriers ensure that your spare tire is

My Buying Guide on Jeep Tj Spare Tire Carrier

As a proud owner of a Jeep TJ, I know how important it is to have a reliable spare tire carrier. It not only ensures the safety of your spare tire but also adds to the overall look of your vehicle. After doing extensive research and trying out various options, I have compiled this buying guide to help you choose the best spare tire carrier for your Jeep TJ.

Types of Spare Tire Carriers

Before diving into the details, it is essential to understand the different types of spare tire carriers available in the market.

1. Bumper-mounted carriers: These are attached directly to the rear bumper and can hold up to a 35-inch spare tire.
2. Hitch-mounted carriers: These are mounted on the hitch receiver and can carry up to a 37-inch spare tire.
3. Swing-away carriers: These have a hinge mechanism that allows you to swing the carrier away from your Jeep’s rear door for easy access.
4. Body-mounted carriers: These are attached directly to the body of your Jeep and can carry up to a 37-inch spare tire.

Considerations before buying

1. Weight capacity: The weight capacity of the carrier should be able to support the weight of your spare tire.
2. Ease of use: Look for carriers that are easy to install, remove, and operate.
3. Compatibility: Make sure that the carrier is compatible with your Jeep model.
4. Material: Opt for carriers made from durable materials such as steel or aluminum for long-lasting performance.
5. Locking mechanism: It is essential to have a secure locking mechanism to prevent theft or damage to your spare tire.
6. Style: Choose a carrier that complements the style and design of your Jeep TJ.

Top Picks

1. Smittybilt XRC Rear Bumper Tire Carrier – This bumper-mounted carrier has a weight capacity of up to 35 inches and comes with an adjustable mount for easy installation.
2. Rugged Ridge Spartacus HD Tire Carrier – Designed specifically for Jeep TJs, this body-mounted carrier can hold up to a 37-inch spare tire and has a built-in lock for added security.
3. TeraFlex HD Hinged Carrier & Adjustable Spare Tire Mounting Kit – This swing-away carrier has an adjustable mounting kit that allows you to customize it according to your needs.

Installation

Installing a spare tire carrier may require some drilling or modification depending on the type you choose. If you are not comfortable doing it yourself, it is best to seek professional help.

Maintenance

Regularly check and tighten all bolts and connections on your spare tire carrier to ensure its proper functioning. Also, keep an eye out for any signs of wear and tear or rusting.

Final Words

Investing in a high-quality spare tire carrier is crucial for any off-roading enthusiast or daily driver of a Jeep TJ. Consider all factors mentioned in this guide before making your purchase decision, as having a sturdy and functional spare tire carrier will give you peace of mind on all your adventures with your beloved Jeep TJ!

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Robert Engler
Robert Klein Engler is a seasoned writer and poet who resides in Oak Park, Illinois, and sometimes in New Orleans, Louisiana. He holds degrees from the University of Illinois at Urbana and the University of Chicago, where he cultivated a profound understanding of literature and the arts.

Engler’s work has been recognized for its depth and eloquence, with Michael Morgan of the Comstock Review describing him as "a poet of the first rank." Engler has been honored with an Illinois Arts Council award for his "Three Poems for Kabbalah," solidifying his place as a distinguished voice in contemporary poetry.

In 2024, Robert Klein Engler made a significant shift in his career, transitioning from his established work in poetry and literary fiction to writing a blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition marked a new chapter in Engler’s writing journey, where he applied his analytical skills and keen observational talents to the world of consumer products.

Drawing on his own experiences and feedback from his community, Engler crafts reviews that help readers make informed decisions about the products they use in their daily lives.