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Where is the spare tire in a Ford C-Max?

The spare tire location on a Ford C-Max varies by market and trim. In many European-spec C-Max models, a space-saving spare wheel is stored under the cargo floor in the boot. In several US-market C-Maxes, Ford often equips the vehicle with a tire repair kit and air compressor instead of a traditional spare. If a spare is included, it is typically kept in the underfloor storage in the rear cargo area and accessed by lifting the floor panel.


Market and model variations


Across regions and configurations, the spare-tire setup can differ. The European-spec C-Max commonly includes a space-saving spare wheel with basic jack tools stored beneath the trunk floor. The US-market versions, particularly certain hybrids, have frequently moved away from a dedicated spare in favor of a tire-sealant kit and compressor. Always check your exact vehicle’s manual or trunk area to confirm what’s included with your specific car.


European-spec spare configuration


In European-spec C-Max models, you’ll typically find a space-saving spare wheel (often a donut) tucked under the luggage floor in the boot. Access is gained by lifting the floor panel and removing the spare along with the accompanying tools such as a jack and lug wrench.


US-market configuration


Many US-market C-Maxes ship without a traditional spare, instead providing a tire repair kit and air compressor in the trunk. If your US-spec vehicle does have a spare, it is usually stored in the underfloor cargo area and accessed by lifting the floor panel and removing the wheel and tool kit.


Before attempting any tire repair or replacement, verify the exact configuration for your vehicle year and trim by inspecting the trunk floor and consulting the owner's manual.


How to locate the spare in practice


Access the cargo area and inspect the underfloor storage to determine whether a spare exists and, if so, how it is secured. Common steps include:



  • Open the rear hatch and lift the floor panel or carpeted lid in the cargo area.

  • Check for a circular storage compartment underneath the floor panel.

  • Remove any securing strap, bolt, or hold-down to lift out the spare wheel (if present) and the accompanying jack and tools.

  • If you don’t find a spare wheel, look for a tire-sealant kit and air compressor in the same area or in a side storage compartment.


Concluding paragraph: The exact setup depends on year, market, and trim level. If you’re unsure, consult the owner’s manual or contact a Ford dealer for the precise configuration for your vehicle.


What to do if you have a flat and no spare


If your C-Max lacks a spare wheel, you should use the tire-sealant kit and compressor as a temporary repair (per kit instructions) and drive cautiously to the nearest service station. If the repair is not possible or the tire is severely damaged, contact roadside assistance or a tow service. Always follow the vehicle’s manual guidance for safe operation and wheel replacement.


Summary: The Ford C-Max’s spare-tire arrangement is not universal. European models commonly carry a space-saving spare under the trunk floor, while US-market variants often rely on a tire-sealant kit and compressor. To know your exact setup, check the trunk underfloor storage and review the owner’s manual. In any case, verify the equipment before you need to use it to ensure you’re prepared on the road.

Why did Ford discontinue the Ford C-Max?


Ford is dropping the Grand C-Max, shown, because of a sharp drop in demand as customers switch to SUVs and crossovers. Ford confirmed it will end production of its C-Max minivan at its factory in Saarlouis, Germany, but said the plant will stay open with further investment in the Focus car that is also built there.



Why are new cars coming without a spare tire?


New cars don't come with a spare tire to reduce weight for better fuel economy, save manufacturing costs, and create more space for other features like batteries or cargo. Many vehicles now include alternatives to a spare, such as tire repair kits or run-flat tires.
 
Reasons for removing spare tires

  • Weight and efficiency: Removing the spare tire and jack saves 30 to 50 pounds, which improves the car's fuel efficiency and helps manufacturers meet EPA guidelines. 
  • Cost savings: Eliminating the spare tire and the components needed to mount it saves the manufacturer money on materials and production. 
  • More space: Removing the spare tire creates extra space, which can be used for larger batteries in electric and hybrid vehicles, increased cargo room, or other features. 
  • Alternative solutions: Many cars now come with a tire repair kit, which includes sealant and an air pump for temporary fixes. Luxury or performance models may feature run-flat tires, which can be driven for a limited distance after a puncture. 

What this means for drivers
  • Check before you buy: Don't assume a new car has a spare. Check the vehicle's specifications to see if it includes one or a repair kit. 
  • Be prepared: If your car has a tire repair kit instead of a spare, familiarize yourself with how to use it. It's a temporary solution meant to get you to a repair shop. 
  • Consider roadside assistance: With the elimination of spare tires, many drivers rely on roadside assistance for flat tires. 



Does a Ford Maverick come with a spare tire?


Whether a Ford Maverick has a spare tire depends on the model year, trim, and specific options; many newer models are equipped with a tire inflator and sealant kit instead of a spare tire, though a spare can still be ordered as an option. The standard spare tire is a donut, but some models, like the Tremor, include a full-size spare as standard or with an off-road package. 
This video shows how to find the spare tire in a Ford Maverick: 43sLong McArthurYouTube · Jul 8, 2024
Standard equipment

  • For some trims, the spare tire is replaced with a tire inflator and sealant kit as standard equipment.
  • A donut or "space-saver" spare is standard on certain hybrid front-wheel-drive (FWD) configurations. 

Optional and standard on other trims
  • A spare tire is available as an optional addition on many trims, including some that don't come with one as standard. 
  • The Tremor package includes a full-size spare tire as standard. 
  • Models with certain engine configurations and hybrid AWD will not have a spare tire as standard. 

This video explains how to lower the spare tire in a Ford Maverick: 44shiimdarYouTube · Sep 21, 2022
What to do
  • Check the specific features of the Ford Maverick you are interested in before purchasing, as equipment can vary. 
  • If you want a spare tire, ensure it is included in your chosen configuration or is selected as an optional extra. 
  • Be aware that even a full-size spare on some trims may be a "full-size dissimilar" spare, which has different limitations than the regular tires. 



Where is the spare tire on a 2013 Ford C-Max?


The 2013 Ford C-Max does not have a spare tire, but instead comes with a Tire Mobility Kit. This kit, used to seal and inflate a punctured tire, is located under the front passenger seat, often secured in a foam holder or pouch. To access it, you will need to move the front passenger seat all the way forward to release the straps and lift the kit out.
 
This video shows the location of the Tire Mobility Kit: 1mBeyer FordYouTube · Jul 3, 2014

  • Location: Under the front passenger seat, inside a foam holder or pouch.
  • How to access: Move the front passenger seat all the way forward and unstrap the kit.
  • Contents: A sealant canister and an air compressor with a pressure gauge.
  • Important: This kit cannot repair a damaged tire sidewall; you will need roadside assistance in that case. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.