2020 Jeep Renegade Spare Tire: Essential Guide for Drivers
Reading Time: 8 minutes Owning a 2020 Jeep Renegade can be exciting, but many drivers are unsure about their vehicle’s spare tire setup. Flat tires can happen anywhere—on a busy street or a remote trail—so knowing the details about your spare tire is important. This guide explains everything you need to know about the spare tire for the 2020 Jeep Renegade. You’ll learn where it’s located, how to use it, its limitations, and how to stay prepared.
Does The 2020 Jeep Renegade Come With A Spare Tire?
Not all 2020 Jeep Renegades come with a traditional spare tire. Most models offer a tire service kit (also called a tire inflator kit or fix-a-flat kit) as standard. Some trims and option packages include a temporary spare tire (also called a “donut” spare).
Key facts:
- Standard Equipment: Most trims come with a tire inflator kit.
- Optional Spare: The compact spare tire is usually an optional extra or part of certain packages.
- Trailhawk Trim: Many Trailhawk models include a compact spare as standard.
It’s smart to check your owner’s manual or look in your cargo area to confirm what your vehicle has.
Location Of The Spare Tire Or Tire Kit
Knowing where your tire kit or spare is located helps you save time during an emergency.
- Cargo Area: If your Renegade has a compact spare, it’s stored under the cargo floor in the trunk area. You’ll find it by lifting the carpeted panel.
- Tire Service Kit: If your vehicle has no spare, a small tire inflator kit sits in a foam compartment, usually in the same spot—under the trunk floor.
Pro tip: Practice opening your cargo floor at home, so you’re not surprised during a real emergency.
What Comes With The Tire Kit Or Spare Tire?
Depending on your setup, you’ll find different items in your Jeep’s cargo area.
If you have a compact spare tire:
- Temporary spare tire (“donut”)
- Scissor jack
- Lug wrench
- Jack handle
If you have a tire inflator kit:
- Air compressor
- Sealant bottle (for sealing small punctures)
- Instructions for use
Both setups usually include a foam organizer to keep everything tidy.
How To Check If You Have A Spare Or Kit
Many new owners wonder if their vehicle actually has a spare or just a tire kit. Here’s how to check:
- Open your trunk.
- Lift the trunk floor panel.
- Look for a spare tire (black, round, and smaller than your regular tires) or a foam box with the inflator kit.
- Check for a jack and wrench—they’re only included with the spare tire option.
If you only see a compressor and sealant, you have a tire kit—not a spare.
Credit: www.jeeprenegadeforum.com
Using The Tire Service Kit
If your 2020 Jeep Renegade has no spare tire, you’ll need to know how to use the tire inflator kit. It’s designed for small punctures, not big blowouts.
Steps for using the kit:
- Remove the kit from under the trunk floor.
- Attach the hose to your tire’s valve stem.
- Plug the kit into your car’s 12V outlet.
- Turn on the compressor to fill the tire and inject sealant.
- Drive immediately for a few miles to spread the sealant.
Important:
- The kit won’t work for sidewall damage or large holes.
- Sealant is usually only good for one use—replace it after use.
Installing The Compact Spare Tire
If you’re lucky enough to have the compact spare, using it is easier than many think.
- Park on a flat, stable surface.
- Set the parking brake.
- Remove the spare tire, jack, and wrench from the cargo area.
- Loosen the lug nuts on your flat tire (don’t remove yet).
- Jack up the vehicle using the recommended point (see your manual).
- Remove the lug nuts and flat tire.
- Install the spare tire and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
- Lower the vehicle, then fully tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern.
Remember:
- The compact spare is for short-term use only—no more than 50 miles and speeds under 50 mph.
Compact Spare Tire Vs. Tire Inflator Kit
Many Jeep Renegade owners wonder whether a spare tire or inflator kit is better. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Compact Spare Tire | Tire Inflator Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Fixes Most Flats | Yes | Only small punctures |
| Easy to Use | Moderate | Very easy |
| Storage Space | Takes more space | Takes less space |
| Cost to Replace | Higher | Lower |
Insight: If you travel in remote areas or places with poor cell service, a compact spare is safer.
How To Upgrade To A Spare Tire
If your Renegade came with only a tire kit, you might want to add a spare tire. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Compact spare tire (matching size for the Renegade)
- Scissor jack
- Lug wrench
- Foam organizer or tie-down for storage
You can buy a kit from a Jeep dealer or from a reputable auto parts store. Installation is simple—just place the spare in the cargo area’s designated spot.
Common mistake: Buying the wrong size spare. Always check your owner’s manual for the recommended spare tire size.
Size And Specifications For The 2020 Jeep Renegade Spare Tire
The 2020 Jeep Renegade’s compact spare tire is smaller than regular tires. Typical specs:
- Size: T135/90D16
- Diameter: About 24.8 inches
- Maximum speed: 50 mph
- Maximum distance: 50 miles
Regular tire size for most trims is 215/60R17 or 225/55R18. Never use a different spare size, as it may damage your car.
How To Maintain Your Spare Tire Or Tire Kit
Many people ignore their spare or tire kit—until they need it. Check both at least twice a year.
- Spare tire: Check air pressure (should be 60 psi). Look for cracks or dry rot.
- Tire kit: Confirm the sealant is not expired (usually 4-5 years shelf life). Plug in the compressor to see if it works.
If you use your spare or tire kit, replace or refill them as soon as possible.
Credit: www.rigid-armor.com
When A Spare Tire Won’t Help
Spare tires are not perfect. Here are two situations where you might need extra help:
- Multiple flat tires: The Renegade only holds one spare. If you damage more than one tire, you’ll need a tow.
- Damaged wheels: If you bend a wheel or have major suspension damage, a spare won’t solve the problem.
Always have roadside assistance or emergency numbers handy, especially when traveling far from home.
Real-world Example: Flat Tire On A Road Trip
Imagine driving your 2020 Jeep Renegade on a weekend trip. You hear a thump—flat tire! If you have a spare, you change it and drive to the nearest shop. If you have only a tire kit, you use it for small punctures.
But if your tire has a sidewall cut, the kit can’t fix it. In that case, you’ll need a tow.
Tip: Carry a tire plug kit for extra peace of mind. It can fix punctures the sealant kit can’t.
Common Beginner Mistakes With Spare Tires
- Not checking air pressure: A flat spare is useless.
- Not knowing how to use the jack: Practice at home.
- Using the spare too long: Always replace or repair your main tire quickly.
2020 Jeep Renegade Spare Tire Cost
Here’s a rough breakdown of what you’ll pay for a replacement:
| Item | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Compact spare tire | $120 – $200 |
| Jack and wrench | $50 – $100 |
| Tire inflator kit | $60 – $120 |
| Full-size tire (not recommended for cargo area) | $180 – $300 |
Prices vary by location and seller. Always buy from a trusted source.
Real Data: How Often Do People Use Their Spare Tire?
Most drivers rarely use their spare tire, but when they do, they’re glad to have it.
- A survey by AAA found that 1 in 5 drivers had a flat tire in the past five years.
- Around 36% of new vehicles are sold without a spare tire as standard equipment.
For more on these statistics, visit the AAA Foundation.
When To Replace A Spare Tire
Spare tires age even if they’re not used. Replace your compact spare if:
- It’s more than 6 years old.
- The tread is worn or cracked.
- It was used for a long distance.
Check the manufacturing date on the tire’s sidewall (look for a four-digit code).
Safety Tips For Using A Spare Tire
- Never drive faster than 50 mph on a compact spare.
- Avoid rough terrain and long distances.
- Check torque on lug nuts after driving a few miles.
- Do not use the spare for towing.
These simple rules keep you and your Jeep safe.
Upgrading To A Full-size Spare Tire
Some drivers want a full-size spare for peace of mind. While possible, the cargo area is not designed for a full-size tire, so it will take up a lot of space and may not fit under the floor. Most people stick to the compact spare for convenience.
Insight: A full-size spare is heavier and harder to lift, especially for beginners.
Credit: www.jeeprenegadeforum.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Every 2020 Jeep Renegade Have A Spare Tire?
No, most come with a tire inflator kit. Only some trims and options include a compact spare tire.
How Long Can I Drive On The Compact Spare Tire?
You should drive no more than 50 miles and stay under 50 mph.
Can I Add A Spare Tire To My Renegade If It Didn’t Come With One?
Yes, you can buy a spare tire kit and install it in the cargo area. Check the manual for the right size.
What Size Is The 2020 Jeep Renegade’s Compact Spare Tire?
The typical size is T135/90D16. Always confirm with your owner’s manual.
Is The Tire Inflator Kit As Good As A Spare Tire?
No, the kit only helps with small punctures. A compact spare is better for most emergencies.
Being ready for a flat tire makes driving your 2020 Jeep Renegade less stressful. Whether you have a compact spare or just a tire inflator kit, knowing how each works is essential. Check your equipment regularly, learn how to use it, and consider upgrading if you often drive in remote areas.
That way, you’ll be prepared no matter where the road takes you.
