The spare tire on a Jeep Compass mounts underneath the rear cargo area, accessible through a latch inside the trunk or by lowering it from beneath the vehicle. Knowing the exact Jeep Compass spare tire location is crucial for every owner, especially if you face a flat tire on the road. This guide walks you through everything you need to find, access, and remove the spare safely.
Most Jeep Compass models from 2017 onward store the spare tire under the cargo floor. But older models or special trims might differ slightly. Let’s break it down step by step.
Jeep Compass Spare Tire Location
Your Jeep Compass spare tire location is under the rear cargo area. You lift the floor panel to find it. The tire sits in a well, secured by a bolt or a winch system. In some models, the spare hangs under the vehicle chassis, not inside.
Here is a quick overview of where to look based on your model year:
- 2017–2024 Jeep Compass: Inside the cargo area, under the floor panel.
- 2007–2016 Jeep Compass: Underneath the rear of the vehicle, accessed from below.
- Trailhawk or Off-Road trims: Some have a full-size spare mounted on the rear door or inside.
Always check your owner’s manual for the exact configuration. But the steps below cover the most common setups.
How To Access The Spare Tire Inside The Cargo Area
For most modern Jeep Compass models (2017 and newer), follow these steps:
- Open the rear tailgate fully.
- Remove any items sitting on the cargo floor.
- Locate the plastic handle or pull strap at the back edge of the floor panel.
- Lift the panel up and toward you. It hinges at the front.
- You will see the spare tire sitting in a round well.
- If there is a cover over the tire, unscrew or unclip it.
Now you can see the spare. But you still need to remove it properly.
Removing The Spare Tire From The Cargo Well
Once you have the floor panel lifted, do this:
- Locate the large plastic wing nut or bolt in the center of the spare tire.
- Turn it counterclockwise to loosen it. You might need a tool from the jack kit.
- Lift the spare tire straight up and out of the well.
- Set it on the ground near the flat tire.
If the tire is stuck, wiggle it gently. Do not force it. Some models have a foam insert that holds tools—remove that first.
Spare Tire Location Under The Vehicle
Older Jeep Compass models (2007–2016) store the spare underneath the rear bumper. Here is how to get it:
- Open the tailgate.
- Look for a small access hole or cover in the cargo floor or near the rear bumper.
- Use the provided jack handle or a long rod to insert into the winch mechanism.
- Turn the rod counterclockwise to lower the spare tire.
- Keep turning until the tire drops to the ground.
- Pull the tire out from under the vehicle.
- Disconnect the cable or bracket holding it.
This system can be tricky. The winch might be rusted or stiff. Use penetrating oil if needed.
Tools You Need For Spare Tire Access
Your Jeep Compass comes with a jack kit. It includes:
- Scissor jack
- Lug wrench
- Towing eye bolt (sometimes)
- Gloves (optional but helpful)
Check that all tools are present. If missing, buy a universal kit. Store them in the foam tray near the spare.
What If Your Spare Tire Is Missing Or Damaged
Some Compass models come with a tire repair kit instead of a spare. This is common in newer trims without a full-size spare. If you have no spare, you get:
- A can of sealant
- An air compressor
- Instructions to plug small punctures
This only works for minor damage. For large tears or sidewall punctures, you need a tow truck.
How To Secure The Spare Tire After Use
After replacing a flat, put the flat tire back in the cargo well. Do not leave it loose. Follow these steps:
- Place the flat tire in the well, valve stem facing up.
- Reinstall the center bolt or wing nut.
- Tighten it firmly by hand.
- Lower the cargo floor panel.
- Close the tailgate.
For under-vehicle spares, reverse the lowering process. Raise the winch until the tire sits snug against the frame.
Common Mistakes When Accessing The Spare
Many drivers make these errors:
- Forgetting to remove cargo before lifting the floor panel.
- Using the wrong tool to loosen the spare bolt.
- Not securing the spare after use, causing rattling.
- Ignoring the spare tire pressure—check it monthly.
Avoid these to save time and frustration.
Spare Tire Location For Different Trims
Not all Jeep Compass trims are the same. Here is a breakdown:
- Sport and Latitude: Inside cargo area, compact spare.
- Limited and Altitude: Same as above, sometimes a full-size spare.
- Trailhawk: Often has a full-size spare mounted on the rear door or inside.
- High Altitude: Usually a compact spare or repair kit.
Check your specific trim level online or in your manual.
What To Do If You Cannot Find The Spare
If you look everywhere and still cannot locate the spare, try these:
- Check under the rear bumper for a winch cable.
- Look in the side compartments of the cargo area.
- Remove the floor panel completely—it might be stuck.
- Consult a dealership or online forum for your model year.
Some owners report the spare is hidden behind a panel in the trunk. Rare but possible.
Spare Tire Size And Type
Most Jeep Compass spares are compact “donut” tires. They are smaller and lighter. Full-size spares are available on some trims. Check the sidewall for size. Common sizes include:
- T125/80R17 (compact)
- T135/90R16 (compact)
- 225/55R18 (full-size on Trailhawk)
Never drive more than 50 miles on a compact spare. Keep speed under 50 mph.
How To Lower The Spare Tire From Under The Vehicle
For models with an under-vehicle spare, here is the detailed process:
- Park on level ground. Engage the parking brake.
- Open the tailgate.
- Find the access hole in the rear cargo floor or near the bumper.
- Insert the jack handle into the hole. It should fit into a square or hex socket.
- Turn counterclockwise. You will hear a clicking sound.
- Continue until the tire touches the ground.
- Pull the tire out from under the vehicle.
- Disconnect the cable from the tire’s bracket.
This system uses a cable winch. It can be slow, so be patient.
What If The Winch Is Stuck
Rust and dirt can jam the winch. Try these fixes:
- Spray penetrating oil (like WD-40) into the mechanism.
- Tap the winch housing with a hammer gently.
- Use a breaker bar for extra leverage.
- If still stuck, call a mechanic or tow service.
Do not force it too hard—you might break the cable.
Storing The Spare Tire Properly
When not in use, keep the spare in good condition:
- Check air pressure every month. Inflate to the recommended PSI (usually 60 PSI for compacts).
- Keep it clean and dry.
- Inspect for cracks or damage.
- Replace if older than 6 years.
A flat spare is useless in an emergency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the spare tire on a 2020 Jeep Compass?
It is under the cargo floor in the rear. Lift the panel to access it.
Does the Jeep Compass have a full-size spare?
Some trims like Trailhawk have a full-size spare. Most have a compact donut.
How do I remove the spare tire from a 2015 Jeep Compass?
It is under the vehicle. Use the jack handle to lower the winch from the access hole.
Can I drive without a spare tire in my Jeep Compass?
Yes, but you risk being stranded. Carry a repair kit or call roadside assistance.
What tools do I need to change a Jeep Compass tire?
You need the jack, lug wrench, and the tool to lower the spare (if under vehicle).
Final Tips For Spare Tire Access
Always practice removing your spare before you need it. Do it in your driveway. This saves stress later. Keep the tools organized. If you have a repair kit, learn how to use it.
Remember the exact Jeep Compass spare tire location for your model. Write it down or take a photo. Share this info with family members who drive the car.
If you ever get a flat on the highway, stay calm. Pull over safely. Use hazard lights. Follow the steps above. You will be back on the road quickly.
One more thing: check the spare tire pressure every oil change. A low spare is a common oversight. Keep it ready for action.
Now you know exactly where the spare is and how to get it out. No more guessing. No more panic. Just a simple, reliable process.