The spare tire on a 2022 Jeep Compass hides in a spot that surprises many new owners. Understanding the 2022 Jeep Compass spare tire location is essential before you hit the road. This guide walks you through everything you need to know, from finding the tire to changing it safely.
Most compact SUVs store the spare under the cargo floor. But Jeep does things a bit differently. The 2022 Compass places the spare tire under the vehicle, near the rear bumper. This design saves interior space but requires a few extra steps to access.
Let’s break down the exact location, how to remove it, and what tools you’ll need. No fluff, just practical steps.
2022 Jeep Compass Spare Tire Location
The spare tire on your 2022 Compass is mounted underneath the rear of the vehicle. It hangs horizontally, secured by a cable mechanism. You won’t see it unless you crouch down and look behind the rear bumper.
To access it, you need to open the liftgate. Then look for a small access panel in the cargo area floor. This panel covers the winch mechanism that lowers the spare tire.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll find:
- Spare tire position: Under the vehicle, behind the rear axle
- Access point: Inside the cargo area, under a plastic cover
- Winch system: A cable and crank mechanism lowers the tire
- Tools needed: Jack, lug wrench, and the winch handle (often stored with the jack)
This location keeps the cargo floor flat and maximizes storage space. But it also means you’ll need to get a bit dirty when you have a flat tire.
Why Jeep Chose This Location
Jeep designed the Compass with off-road capability in mind. Mounting the spare underneath keeps the center of gravity lower. It also frees up room for a full-size spare if you upgrade later.
Some owners prefer this setup because it doesn’t eat into cargo space. Others find it inconvenient because you have to crawl under the car. But once you know the process, it’s straightforward.
Tools You Need To Access The Spare Tire
Before you start, gather these items. They come standard with the vehicle, but double-check they’re in your Compass.
- Jack: Located under the cargo floor, usually near the spare tire access panel
- Lug wrench: Fits the lug nuts on your wheels
- Winch handle: A long metal rod with a hook on one end
- Owner’s manual: Helpful if you get stuck
If you bought the car used, make sure these tools are present. Missing tools can turn a quick tire change into a roadside nightmare.
Where To Find The Tools
Open the liftgate and lift the cargo floor panel. You’ll see a foam tray holding the jack and lug wrench. The winch handle is often clipped to the side of the tray or stored inside the jack base.
Some trims have a subwoofer in the cargo area. In that case, the tools might be under the passenger seat or in a side compartment. Check your manual if you can’t find them.
Step-By-Step Guide To Remove The Spare Tire
Follow these steps carefully. The winch system is simple but requires attention to detail.
- Park on level ground. Engage the parking brake. Place wheel chocks behind the front tires if possible.
- Open the liftgate. Remove the cargo floor cover to expose the access panel.
- Locate the winch access hole. It’s a small circular opening in the floor, usually covered by a plastic cap.
- Remove the plastic cap. Use your fingers or a flathead screwdriver to pop it off.
- Insert the winch handle. Push the hooked end into the hole. Turn it counterclockwise to lower the spare tire.
- Lower the tire completely. Keep turning until the tire rests on the ground. You’ll hear a clicking sound as it lowers.
- Pull the tire out from under the vehicle. It may be stuck on the cable, so wiggle it gently.
- Remove the cable from the tire’s center hole. The cable has a retaining clip. Squeeze it to release the tire.
That’s it. The spare is now free. Reverse these steps to reinstall it after you’ve fixed the flat.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Don’t over-tighten the winch handle. It can strip the mechanism.
- Make sure the tire is fully lowered before pulling it out. Forcing it can damage the cable.
- Always use the jack on solid ground. Soft dirt or gravel can cause the jack to sink.
How To Change The Flat Tire On A 2022 Compass
Once you have the spare out, you need to swap it with the flat. Here’s the process.
- Loosen the lug nuts. Use the lug wrench to turn them counterclockwise. Do this before jacking up the car.
- Position the jack. Find the jacking point under the vehicle near the flat tire. There’s a notch in the frame.
- Raise the vehicle. Turn the jack handle clockwise until the tire clears the ground by about an inch.
- Remove the lug nuts. Take them off completely and set them aside in a safe place.
- Remove the flat tire. Pull it straight off the hub. It may be stuck, so give it a firm tug.
- Mount the spare tire. Align the holes with the wheel studs and push it on. It should sit flush.
- Hand-tighten the lug nuts. Turn them clockwise until snug. Don’t fully tighten yet.
- Lower the vehicle. Turn the jack handle counterclockwise to lower the car until the tire touches the ground.
- Tighten the lug nuts. Use the lug wrench in a star pattern to ensure even pressure.
- Lower the jack completely. Remove it from under the car.
Double-check that all lug nuts are tight. Drive slowly for a few miles, then re-torque them if possible.
What About The Spare Tire Size?
The 2022 Compass comes with a temporary spare tire, often called a “donut.” It’s smaller than the regular tires. This saves weight and space but limits your speed to 50 mph (80 km/h).
Check the sidewall of the spare for the exact pressure. It’s usually around 60 psi. Inflate it if needed before driving.
Some trims, like the Trailhawk, may have a full-size spare. But most models use the compact version. Verify yours by looking at the tire label inside the driver’s door.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the spare tire on a 2022 Jeep Compass?
It’s mounted underneath the rear of the vehicle. You access it through a winch mechanism inside the cargo area.
How do I lower the spare tire on a 2022 Jeep Compass?
Open the liftgate, remove the cargo floor cover, and find the winch access hole. Insert the winch handle and turn it counterclockwise until the tire lowers to the ground.
Does the 2022 Jeep Compass have a full-size spare?
Most trims come with a temporary spare tire. The Trailhawk trim may include a full-size spare, but check your specific vehicle.
What tools do I need to change the spare tire?
You need the jack, lug wrench, and winch handle. These are stored under the cargo floor or in a side compartment.
Can I drive long distances on the spare tire?
No. The temporary spare is rated for short distances and speeds under 50 mph. Replace it with a full-size tire as soon as possible.
Maintenance Tips For Your Spare Tire
Your spare tire sits under the vehicle exposed to road grime and weather. Check it regularly to ensure it’s in good condition.
- Inspect the tire pressure every few months. Use a tire gauge to verify it’s at the recommended psi.
- Look for cracks or dry rot on the rubber. Sun and heat can degrade the tire over time.
- Test the winch mechanism once a year. Lower and raise the spare to make sure it moves smoothly.
- Clean the cable with a rag to remove dirt and prevent rust.
If you never use the spare, it can still become unusable after five or six years. Consider replacing it if the rubber shows signs of aging.
What If The Winch Is Stuck?
Sometimes the winch mechanism seizes due to corrosion. If the handle won’t turn, spray penetrating oil like WD-40 into the access hole. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then try again.
If it’s still stuck, you may need to crawl under the vehicle and manually release the cable. This is rare but possible in salty climates. A mechanic can help if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself.
Alternative Spare Tire Options
If you don’t like the under-vehicle spare, you have a few choices.
- Install a rear-mounted carrier: Some aftermarket companies make spare tire carriers that attach to the rear bumper. This gives you easier access.
- Keep a full-size spare in the cargo area: This reduces cargo space but gives you a proper tire. Secure it with straps to prevent movement.
- Use a tire repair kit: Some owners ditch the spare entirely and carry a plug kit and air compressor. This saves weight but isn’t ideal for large punctures.
Each option has trade-offs. Think about how you use your Compass before making a change.
Final Thoughts On The 2022 Compass Spare Tire
Knowing the 2022 Jeep Compass spare tire location saves you time and stress during a roadside emergency. It’s under the vehicle, accessed via a winch in the cargo area. The process is simple once you’ve done it once.
Keep your tools organized and check the spare tire pressure regularly. A flat spare is no help when you need it most. If you ever feel unsure, refer to your owner’s manual or watch a video tutorial specific to your trim level.
Drive safe, and don’t forget to reinstall the spare after you’ve fixed the flat. It’s easy to leave it behind in the rush to get back on the road.
One last tip: practice changing the tire in your driveway before you need to do it on the side of a highway. It takes 15 minutes and builds confidence. You’ll thank yourself later.