Selecting a spare tire for a 2017 Jeep Renegade means matching the factory size or upgrading to a full-size spare for off-road trips. The right choice depends on how you use your Renegade—daily driving, weekend adventures, or both.
Your 2017 Jeep Renegade likely came with a temporary spare or a tire repair kit. Many owners find these options limiting, especially when a flat happens far from home. Let’s walk through everything you need to know about replacing or upgrading your spare.
Spare Tire For 2017 Jeep Renegade
The factory spare tire setup varies by trim level. Base models often include a tire inflator kit instead of a physical spare. Higher trims like the Trailhawk come with a compact temporary spare stored under the cargo floor.
Knowing your current setup helps you decide what to buy. Check your vehicle’s build sheet or look under the rear cargo area to see what you have now.
Factory Spare Tire Sizes
The standard spare tire for most 2017 Renegades is a T135/90R16 temporary spare. This compact tire is designed for short distances and speeds under 50 mph. It saves space and weight but offers limited reliability.
If your Renegade has the Trailhawk package, the factory spare might be a 165/80R17 temporary tire. This size matches the larger wheel wells on Trailhawk models.
- T135/90R16 – common on Latitude and Limited trims
- 165/80R17 – found on Trailhawk and some optional packages
- Full-size spare – not standard on any 2017 model
Why Upgrade To A Full-Size Spare
A full-size spare tire for 2017 Jeep Renegade offers several advantages. It matches your regular tires exactly, so you can drive normally without speed or distance restrictions. This is crucial for off-road trips where a temporary spare might fail.
Full-size spares also allow you to rotate them into your regular tire set. This extends the life of all five tires and ensures even wear. Many off-road enthusiasts prefer this setup for peace of mind.
However, a full-size spare takes up more space. You’ll need to store it in the cargo area or mount it on the rear door. Some owners install aftermarket carriers to keep the spare accessible.
How To Find The Right Size
To match your existing tires, check the sidewall of your current tires. Look for a sequence like 215/60R17 or 225/55R18. This tells you the width, aspect ratio, and rim diameter.
Common factory tire sizes for the 2017 Renegade include:
- 215/60R17 – standard on most trims
- 225/55R18 – optional on Limited and Trailhawk
- 215/65R16 – base model tires
If you’ve upgraded to larger tires, your spare must match the new diameter. Using a mismatched spare can damage your drivetrain, especially on all-wheel-drive models.
Where To Buy A Spare Tire
You can purchase a spare tire for 2017 Jeep Renegade from several sources. Dealerships offer OEM parts but charge premium prices. Online retailers like Tire Rack or Discount Tire provide more options at lower costs.
Used tires from salvage yards are another budget-friendly choice. Look for tires with at least 6/32 inch of tread depth. Avoid tires with visible damage or uneven wear.
Some owners buy a full-size spare wheel and tire combo. This ensures the tire is mounted and balanced correctly. You can find these at online marketplaces or specialty Jeep parts stores.
Mounting Options For Your Spare
The 2017 Renegade doesn’t have a factory rear-mounted spare tire carrier. You’ll need an aftermarket solution if you want to mount a full-size spare outside the vehicle.
Popular mounting options include:
- Cargo area storage – place the spare in the back, secured with straps
- Roof rack mounting – use a roof basket or tire carrier
- Rear bumper carrier – bolt-on units that attach to the hitch or frame
- Hitch-mounted carrier – slides into your trailer hitch receiver
Each option has trade-offs. Cargo storage reduces interior space. Roof mounting affects fuel economy and requires lifting the tire. Rear carriers add weight and length to your vehicle.
Cost Considerations
A temporary spare tire for 2017 Jeep Renegade costs between $100 and $200. Full-size spares range from $150 to $400 depending on tire brand and wheel type. Steel wheels are cheaper than alloy ones.
If you need a wheel and tire combo, expect to pay $250 to $500. Installation and mounting fees add another $20 to $50. Shop around for the best deal.
Some insurance policies cover spare tire replacement. Check with your provider to see if you’re eligible for reimbursement.
Installation Tips
Installing a spare tire on your Renegade is straightforward. Follow these steps:
- Park on level ground and engage the parking brake
- Remove the cargo floor cover to access the spare tire well
- Loosen the retaining bolt or strap holding the spare
- Lift the spare out and place it next to the flat tire
- Use the jack to lift the vehicle at the designated jack point
- Remove the lug nuts and take off the flat tire
- Mount the spare tire onto the wheel studs
- Tighten the lug nuts by hand, then lower the vehicle
- Torque the lug nuts to 100 ft-lbs using a torque wrench
Always check the spare tire pressure before driving. The recommended pressure is usually 60 psi for temporary spares and 35-40 psi for full-size tires.
Maintenance And Storage
Your spare tire needs regular care even if you never use it. Check the air pressure every month. Temperature changes can cause pressure loss over time.
Inspect the spare for cracks, dry rot, or bulges. Replace it if you notice any damage. Tires older than six years should be replaced regardless of appearance.
Store the spare in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. UV rays degrade rubber compounds. If you mount the spare outside, use a cover to protect it.
Off-Road Considerations
For off-road use, a full-size spare tire for 2017 Jeep Renegade is essential. Temporary spares lack the tread depth and durability for rough terrain. A flat tire on a trail can ruin your trip.
Consider upgrading to all-terrain tires for your spare. These provide better traction in mud, sand, and rocks. Match the spare to your regular tires for consistent performance.
Carry a tire repair kit and portable air compressor as backup. Even with a spare, you might need to fix a puncture on the trail. A plug kit and compressor take up little space.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Many owners make errors when selecting a spare tire. Here are the most common ones:
- Buying a different size than your regular tires
- Using a temporary spare for long distances
- Forgetting to check spare tire pressure regularly
- Mounting a full-size spare without proper support
- Ignoring the spare tire well’s weight limit
Avoid these mistakes to ensure your spare works when you need it most. Proper planning saves time and frustration later.
Compatibility With AWD Systems
The 2017 Renegade’s all-wheel-drive system requires tires with matching diameters. A mismatched spare can cause drivetrain damage over time. The system senses differences in wheel speed and may engage the clutch pack incorrectly.
If you must use a temporary spare, drive slowly and only for short distances. Replace it with a matching tire as soon as possible. Never use a temporary spare on the rear axle of an AWD Renegade.
Full-size spares eliminate this risk. They match your other tires exactly, so the drivetrain operates normally. This is another reason to upgrade if you own an AWD model.
Aftermarket Wheel Options
Some owners choose aftermarket wheels for their spare. Steel wheels are durable and affordable. They also resist damage from rocks and debris better than alloy wheels.
Alloy wheels are lighter and look better but cost more. If you want your spare to match your regular wheels, buy a fifth wheel from the same set. This ensures consistent appearance and performance.
Check the bolt pattern before buying. The 2017 Renegade uses a 5x110mm bolt pattern. Offset and center bore must also match your vehicle’s specifications.
Legal Requirements
Most states require a functional spare tire or tire repair kit. Check your local laws to ensure compliance. Some areas mandate that spares meet specific tread depth standards.
If you remove the spare tire well to install a larger spare, you might lose storage space. Keep the original equipment in case you sell the vehicle. Buyers often expect a factory spare setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a full-size spare from another Jeep model?
Yes, but ensure the bolt pattern and offset match. Wrangler and Cherokee spares often fit, but tire diameter must be the same as your Renegade’s tires.
How long can I drive on a temporary spare?
Temporary spares are rated for 50 miles at speeds under 50 mph. Exceeding these limits risks tire failure and damage to your vehicle.
Does the 2017 Renegade Trailhawk come with a full-size spare?
No, the Trailhawk includes a compact temporary spare. Some dealers offer a full-size spare as an optional accessory, but it’s not standard.
Can I fit a full-size spare in the cargo area?
Yes, but it takes up significant space. You’ll need to remove the factory spare tire well or place the tire on top of the cargo floor. Use straps to secure it.
What is the best spare tire for off-road use?
A full-size all-terrain tire matching your regular tires is best. Brands like BFGoodrich, Goodyear, and Falken offer reliable options for the Renegade.
Final Recommendations
For daily driving, a temporary spare tire for 2017 Jeep Renegade is sufficient. It saves space and weight while meeting basic needs. Check its condition regularly and replace it if worn.
For off-road adventures, invest in a full-size spare. It provides peace of mind and eliminates the limitations of temporary spares. Mount it securely in your cargo area or on an external carrier.
Always carry a tire repair kit and compressor as backup. Even with a spare, you might encounter multiple punctures or difficult terrain. Being prepared keeps you safe and mobile.
Remember to match your spare to your existing tires. Check sizes, load ratings, and speed ratings. A properly chosen spare tire ensures you’re never stranded.
Your 2017 Jeep Renegade is a capable vehicle. With the right spare tire, you can explore confidently knowing you’re ready for any flat. Take time to choose wisely and maintain your spare for years of reliable service.