Best Van Spare Tire Mount Solutions for Maximum Space and Easy Access
Finding the right van spare tire mount helps free interior space while keeping your spare ready for quick access. This guide highlights five top picks that balance rugged construction, straightforward installation, and practical fits for common vans and trailers. Each option offers space-saving design, durable materials, and reliable mounting to either a driver or passenger side rear door, or roof racks when applicable.
| Product | Brand | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Surco TF200 Van Spare Tire Carrier | Surco | Rear-door, rugged steel, interior space saver |
| Surco Chevy Van Tire Carrier (driver door) | Surco | Driver-side mount, corrosion-resistant finish |
| Surco TF100 Van Spare Tire Carrier | Surco | Driver-side mount, durable black finish |
| Surco TD100 Van Spare Tire Carrier | Surco | Passenger-side mount, sturdy build |
| Vanhoxcci Universal Spare Tire Carrier | Vanhoxcci | Roof rack compatibility, up to 35 inches |
The following sections review each product’s strengths and how it fits common van setups. All selections emphasize easy installation, robust construction, and efficient use of space for modern vans and light trailers.
Surco TF200 Van Spare Tire Carrier
The Surco TF200 is designed for rear-door mounting on a range of vans, including Chevrolet Express, Ford E-Series, and GMC Savana models. It emphasizes space savings by relocating the spare tire to the rear exterior, freeing interior cargo and seating areas. The unit uses a heavy-duty welded steel construction with a corrosion-resistant black powder coat for long-term durability. Installation is described as straightforward: mount on the rear door (driver or passenger side) with stainless steel screws, mark holes, drill, and secure. This approach minimizes interior clutter while keeping your spare within easy reach.
Key features include space-saving design, rugged construction, and simple installation. The TF200 supports mounting on the rear door, which is a common preference for vans that prioritize interior cargo space. Users should ensure the door’s hinge and mounting area can accommodate the rack’s dimensions and weight.
Surco Chevy Van Tire Carrier (driver door)
This Surco model is a driver-side rear door mount designed for vans and includes compatibility with the vehicle’s hinges and bolts. The construction remains heavy-duty welded steel with a protective black powder coat finish to resist corrosion over time. Installation involves using two stainless steel screws on the end of the rack facing the vehicle’s center, with drilling required to complete mounting. The driver-side location is a practical choice for quick tire access from the vehicle’s interior perspective, improving workflow during tire changes or routine maintenance.
Spare Tire Mount For Utility Trailer And More (4–6 Lug)
This universal spare tire carrier offers broad compatibility, supporting 4-, 5-, and 6-lug wheels with bolt patterns ranging from 4″ to 5.5″. Its rugged 150-pound weight rating is suitable for larger trailer tires and boat trailers that require secure mounting on a variety of hubs and frames. The design emphasizes a welded triangular structure with a robust behind plate that anchors the steel beam, reducing risk of tire loss on rough terrain. While marketed for trailers, its universal fit makes it a viable option for larger vans where a trailer-style mount is appropriate, given compatible mounting points on a rear frame or trailer hitch assembly.
Vanhoxcci Universal Spare Tire Carrier (Roof Mount)
The Vanhoxcci roof mount spare tire carrier is designed to attach to roof rack cross bars or roof baskets. It supports up to 35-inch tires and includes lockable hinged arms for security on long trips or outdoor adventures. This option is ideal for vans or campers that prioritize interior space and are equipped with roof racks or cargo baskets. It offers flexible installation methods—two mounting approaches are supported, including combinations of J-hooks, clamps, T-slots, and M8 nuts—making it adaptable to various roof rack configurations. The robust powder-coated steel construction helps resist rust and corrosion in outdoor environments.
Surco TF100 Van Spare Tire Carrier
The TF100 model is a driver-side rear door mount with a black finish, designed to maximize interior space by positioning the spare outside the cabin. It uses Surco’s characteristic heavy-duty welded steel construction and a corrosion-resistant coating for durability. Installation follows the same general approach as other Surco rear-door carriers: mount to the rear door with existing hinges/bolts and add stainless steel screws on the end facing inward; drilling may be required. It provides a reliable alternative for vans preferring driver-side access and a compact footprint on the door itself.
Surco TD100 Van Spare Tire Carrier
The TD100 is a passenger-side rear door mount with a black finish, designed to keep the spare tire accessible from the passenger side. It uses Surco’s standard heavy-duty welded steel with corrosion resistance and a straightforward installation process. By mounting on the passenger side, this model can provide ergonomic tire access for certain configurations or driver preference. Drilling is required for securing the rack, along with using the appropriate hinges and bolts from the vehicle’s door assembly. It complements other Surco offerings for a versatile spare tire strategy.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Fitment and vehicle compatibility: Confirm the mount’s intended door side (driver vs. passenger) and verify it suits the van model and year. Some models are designed specifically for certain doors or rear configurations.
- Mounting method and hardware: Review whether installation requires drilling and if the vehicle’s hinges can support the rack’s weight. Stainless steel fasteners typically offer better corrosion resistance.
- Weight capacity and tire size: Check the carrier’s weight rating and ensure it can handle the spare tire size you carry. Larger tires require sturdier mounts and sometimes reinforced mounting points.
- Material and finish: A powder-coated or corrosion-resistant finish extends life in road salt, humidity, and adverse weather conditions, especially for exterior-mounted systems.
- Space savings vs. accessibility: Exterior mounts free interior space but may change door clearance. Ensure the mount does not interfere with door operation or interior seating.
- Security features: For roof-mounted units, lockable arms or anti-theft hardware can deter tampering. Some mounts incorporate locking mechanisms to protect tires when unattended.
- Versatility and future needs: Consider whether a universal trailer-style carrier or a dedicated van mount offers better long-term flexibility for other vehicles or trailers.
- Installation complexity: Some models require drilling or permanent modifications, while others rely on existing bolts and hinges. Factor in your comfort with DIY installation or the need for professional help.
Choosing the right van spare tire mount involves balancing space savings, load capacity, and installation practicality. For many van owners, a rear-door carrier from a reputable brand like Surco provides consistency across multiple vehicle models, while universal or roof-mount options offer flexibility for specialized configurations or outdoor adventures. Always verify door compatibility, tire size, and mounting hardware to ensure safe, durable performance on road trips and daily use alike.