Spare wheel on Toyota Prado 120 (2002–2009) is mounted under the body - this is a classic solution for SUVs, saving space in the trunk. However, not all owners know how to dismantle it correctly, especially if doing it for the first time. Unlike passenger cars, where the spare tire is often located in the trunk niche, here the process requires accuracy and knowledge of the nuances of fastening.

The main difficulty lies in access to the locking mechanism — it is hidden under a plastic cover, and the fastening bolt itself can “stick” over time. In addition, the weight of the spare wheel (especially if it is a full-size tire) reaches 20–25 kg, so it’s not always convenient to shoot it alone. In this article, we will analyze the step-by-step algorithm, list the necessary tools and warn about common mistakes that can lead to body damage or injury.

We will pay special attention modifications with rear gearbox — their access to the spare tire may differ due to additional suspension elements. We will also consider how to avoid problems with rust on the bolt threads and what to do if the wheel is “stuck” in the mount.

Preparation: Tools and Safety Precautions

Before proceeding with dismantling, make sure that the car is standing on flat surface. If Prado 120 If the vehicle is on a slope, the spare tire may move if it is loosened and cause injury. Also check:

  • 🔧 Includes jack and wheel wrench — they must be in the standard tool kit (under the seat or in the trunk).
  • 🧤 Protective gloves - the bolt thread often rusts, and your hands get dirty with dirt.
  • 🔦 Flashlight or head light — It’s dark under the body even during the day.
  • 🛠️ WD-40 or similar lubricant - if the bolt does not budge.
  • 📏 Support or block - for insurance if the jack slips.

If you have never removed the spare tire Prado 120, practice on level ground in your garage, not on the side of the road. The spare wheel mounting bolt on this model has a left-hand thread (reverse to the standard one) - this is a critically important point that many people forget about and break the thread when trying to unscrew it clockwise.

⚠️ Attention: Do not use extensions for the wheelbrace - excessive force may break the fastening mechanism or strip the splines on the bolt. If the bolt does not work, treat it with WD-40 and wait 10-15 minutes.
📊 Where do you keep your spare tire?
Under the body
In the trunk
On the roof
No spare tire
Another option

Step-by-step instructions: how to remove a spare tire

The dismantling algorithm is the same for all modifications Toyota Prado 120, but may differ for models with rear gearbox (for example, Prado 120 3.0 D-4D). Follow the instructions strictly in order:

  1. Open the back door and locate the plastic cover under the bumper. It is attached to 4–6 pistons (depending on the year of manufacture). Gently pry it open with a flathead screwdriver or plastic spatula so as not to break it.

  2. Clean the mounting bolt remove dirt with a brush or rag. If rust is visible, treat it liberally with WD-40.

  3. Install the wheel wrench onto the bolt and turn it counterclockwise (remember about left-hand threads!). At first turns some effort may be required.

  4. Lower the wheel on a cable or chain (if any). In some trim levels Prado 120 The spare tire is secured with an additional hook - it must be detached manually.

  5. Pull the wheel out from under the body. Do this carefully so as not to damage the paintwork of the bumper.

If the wheel is “jammed” and does not come out of the mount, do not hit it with a hammer - this will bend the disk. Instead, rock the wheel left and right while pulling it towards you. Treating the fasteners with silicone grease in advance often helps (for example, when changing tires during the season).

☑️ Checklist before removing the spare tire

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Common problems and how to avoid them

Even experienced drivers have difficulty removing the spare tire from Prado 120. Let's look at typical situations and ways to solve them:

Problem Reason Solution
The bolt won't come off Rust or deformation of threads Apply WD-40 and wait 10–15 minutes. If that doesn't help, use an impact wrench (carefully!).
The wheel does not come out of the mount Corrosion or deformation of the bracket Rock the wheel left and right, treat the mount with silicone grease. Don't hit with a hammer!
The splines on the bolt are torn off Excessive force or incorrect tool Use an extractor for stripped bolts or contact service.
The plastic cover is broken Fragile plastic in the cold or careless removal Replace the cover (part no. 58907-60030 for Prado 120).

Pay special attention modifications with rear gearbox (for example, Prado 120 3.4 V6). In them, the spare tire mount may be shifted closer to the driveshaft, and to access the bolt you will have to remove additional protection. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to contact the service - an error during dismantling can damage the gearbox.

⚠️ Attention: After installing the spare wheel back, always check the tightening torque of the bolt with a torque wrench. For Prado 120 it must be within 80–100 Nm. An overtightened bolt may burst when driving off-road.
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Before a long trip, treat the threads of the spare tire mounting bolt with graphite lubricant - this will prevent sticking and make the next dismantling easier.

Features for different modifications of Prado 120

The design of the spare wheel mounting may vary depending on the configuration and year of manufacture. Toyota Prado 120. Here are the key details:

  • 🚙 Basic versions (2002–2005) — the fastening bolt often rusts due to lack of factory treatment. It is recommended to lubricate it once a year.
  • 🔧 Modifications with rear gearbox (3.0 D-4D, 3.4 V6) - require removal of additional protection to access the fastening.
  • 🛡️ Restyled models (2006–2009) — the plastic cover is attached to clips, which easily break in the cold.
  • 🏜️ Middle East versions — may have a reinforced mounting bracket (article no. 48605-60040).

If you are the owner Prado 120 with air suspension, before removing the spare wheel, be sure to put the car in "High" (increased ground clearance). This will give additional 2–3 cm space for maneuver and will prevent damage to the air cylinders.

For modifications with electronic suspension control unit (for example, Prado 120 with KDSS system) after installing the spare tire back, you may need to reset errors through the diagnostic scanner. This is due to changes in the load on the rear axle.

What to do if the spare tire is stuck in the bracket?

If the wheel does not come out even after loosening the bolt, try the following:

1. Treat the fastener with a penetrating lubricant (for example, Liqui Moly MoS2).

2. Jack up the car from the spare tire side - this will remove the load from the bracket.

3. Use the pry bar as a lever, resting it on the wheel eye.

4. If all else fails, do not use excessive force - contact a service center to avoid damaging the body.

How to put the spare tire back on

Putting the spare tire back in place is no less important a process than removing it. Here are the key points:

  1. Clean the mount from dirt and old grease. Use a wire brush and degreaser.

  2. Check the condition of the bolt. If the thread is damaged, replace it (part no. 90179-06016 for Prado 120).

  3. Lift up the wheel and align it with the guides in the bracket. Make sure it sits evenly.

  4. Tighten the bolt clockwise (remember about left-hand threads!). First by hand, then with a wheel wrench.

  5. Install the plastic cover in place. Secure all pins to avoid vibrations at speed.

After installation, check whether the spare wheel is touching the exhaust system or driveshaft components. To do this, spin the wheel by hand - it should rotate freely, without touching. If you hear a grinding noise, it means the wheel is installed crookedly or the bracket is deformed.

⚠️ Attention: Do not use the spare tire with Prado 120 on other Toyota models (for example, Land Cruiser 100), even if the diameter is the same. Disc offset differences (ET) may cause friction against suspension components.
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Always check your spare tire pressure every 2-3 months. The recommended value for Prado 120 is 2.8–3.0 bar (depending on size).

Alternative ways to store a spare tire

If the standard underbody mount is not suitable for you (for example, due to difficulty of access or risk of corrosion), consider alternative options:

  • 🚐 Roof mount - Suitable for SUVs, but increases the center of gravity. Popular models: Thule or Yakima.
  • 📦 Luggage rack on the tow bar — allows you to place a spare tire and additional equipment. Cons: Reduces ground clearance.
  • 🔄 Spare wheel in trunk - if you have Prado 120 with the third row of seats, you can use special organizers.
  • 🔧 Quick release brackets - for example, from ARB. Allows you to remove the spare tire in 1–2 minutes.

When choosing an alternative mounting, consider axle load. For Prado 120 maximum permissible weight on the rear axle - 1,650 kg. Exceeding this value will lead to premature wear of shock absorbers and springs.

If you often drive off-road, we recommend installing crankcase protection and spare tire mounting. This will prevent the bracket from being damaged when hitting obstacles. Popular brands: Ironman 4x4, Tough Dog.

For clarity, we recommend watching a video with step-by-step removal of the spare wheel on Toyota Prado 120:

Useful resources:

If you plan to service yourself Prado 120, purchase service manual (for example, from Haynes). It details all procedures including spare tire removal for different markets (Europe, Middle East, Australia).

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Take a photo of the process of removing the spare tire on your phone - this will help you quickly put everything back together if this is your first time.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the spare wheel on the Prado 120

Is it possible to drive a Prado 120 at more than 80 km/h?

No. The reduced-size spare tire (if equipped) is rated for a speed of no more than 80 km/h and mileage to 100 km. Exceeding these values will lead to overheating of the tire and the risk of its destruction. If you have a full-size spare, there is no speed limit, but check the pressure before driving.

What is the size of the spare wheel on Prado 120?

Depends on the configuration:

  • Basic version: 165/80 R17 (dokatka).
  • Top modifications: 265/65 R17 or 265/60 R18 (full size).

Check the markings on the side of the wheel or in the owner's manual.

What to do if the spare tire mounting bolt breaks?

If the bolt breaks off during dismantling:

  1. Try to unscrew the remainder with an extractor (for example, Easy Out).
  2. If that doesn’t work, drill out the bolt with a drill bit 8–10 mm and cut a new thread.
  3. As a last resort, contact service - the bracket may need to be replaced.

Never drive with an unsecured spare tire!

How often should you check the condition of your spare tire?

At least once every 6 months or before long trips. Check:

  • Pressure (should be at 0.2–0.3 bar higher than in the main wheels).
  • No cracks on the rim or tire sidewall.
  • Tread condition (remaining depth not less than 1.6 mm).

If the spare tire is stored under the body, clean it of dirt and lubricate the mount once a year.

Is it possible to install a spare wheel from a Land Cruiser 100 on a Prado 120?

Theoretically, it is possible if it matches bolt pattern (5×150) and hub diameter (106.1 mm). However:

  • Various disc ejection (ET) may cause friction against the suspension.
  • The width and diameter of the tire must match the original (otherwise it will work ABS and VSC).

It is better to use an original spare tire or analogues from BFGoodrich, Michelin, certified for Prado 120.