When did they stop putting the tire on the back of the RAV4?
Starting with the 2006 model year, Toyota stopped fitting a full-size spare tire to the RAV4’s rear tailgate. Since then, most models store a spare under the cargo floor or rely on a tire repair kit, with variations by market and trim.
What changed and when
The shift away from a rear-mounted spare reflects broader packaging and safety trends in compact SUVs. Here is a quick look at how the spare arrangement evolved across generations, noting that exact configurations can vary by country and trim level.
Evolution by generation
- First generation (1994–2000): Exterior tailgate-mounted spare tire was common on many models.
- Second generation (2000–2005): Still often featured a tailgate spare, though some markets experimented with under-floor storage.
- Third generation (2006–2012): Spare moved to an under-floor location in most trims; tailgate mounting largely discontinued.
- Fourth generation (2013–2018): Under-floor spare or tire repair kit; no conventional rear-door tire carrier.
- Fifth generation (2019–present): Typically under-floor spare or repair kit; tailgate-mounted spares are not standard; market-specific exceptions may exist.
The trend across generations is a move away from exterior spares toward interior storage to improve cabin space, load practicality, and weight distribution, with manufacturers favoring kit-based solutions to reduce weight.
Why the change happened
Manufacturers cite several factors: improved interior packaging that frees up space for cargo and passengers, weight reduction for better fuel economy, and more cost-effective manufacturing. In addition, many buyers now expect less bulky spare tires and are comfortable carrying a tire repair kit or relying on roadside assistance.
What this means for RAV4 owners today
Today’s RAV4s typically do not have a spare tire mounted on the rear door. If you need a spare, you’ll most often find a compact donut under the cargo floor or a tire repair kit in the cargo area. Check your exact trim and market, as some regions historically offered a full-size spare on select configurations.
Summary
In short, Toyota stopped placing a spare tire on the RAV4’s rear door around the 2006 model year. Since then, the standard has been under-floor storage or a tire repair kit, with regional variations and occasional exceptions depending on market and trim.
