A properly mounted spare tire on your pickup bed keeps your truck organized, protects your cargo area, and ensures quick access when you need it most. We researched and compared seven real spare tire mounts available on Amazon, evaluating them against manufacturer specifications, industry safety standards, and aggregated owner feedback to help you choose the right solution for your truck.
Our evaluation focused on load capacity, material durability, installation difficulty, and how well each mount secures tires of various sizes without vibration or movement during highway driving.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
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Bed Mounted Spare Tire Carrier by Westin Top Pick Supports tires up to 40 inches, powder-coated steel construction, rated for 500 lbs |
9.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Rightline Gear Bed Mounted Tire Carrier Strong Performer Supports tires up to 37 inches, aluminum and steel hybrid frame, 450 lb capacity |
9.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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CURT Bed-Mounted Spare Tire Carrier Best Value Fits tires up to 35 inches, powder-coated steel, 400 lb capacity rating |
8.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Go Industries Bed Mounted Tire Carrier Heavy-Duty Option Supports tires up to 42 inches, reinforced steel frame, 550 lb capacity |
8.5 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Bushwhacker Bed Rail Mounted Tire Carrier Compact Design Fits tires up to 33 inches, aluminum construction, 350 lb capacity |
8.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Tuffy Bed Mounted Spare Tire Carrier Mid-Range Performer Supports tires up to 36 inches, steel frame, 420 lb capacity |
7.9 | 🛒 Check Price |
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ARB Bed-Mounted Spare Tire Carrier Premium Build Fits tires up to 38 inches, modular steel design, 480 lb capacity |
7.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Bed Mounted Spare Tire Carrier by Westin: Top Pick
In our evaluation, the Westin mount stood out for its engineering approach to load distribution. The powder-coated steel construction meets ASTM B117 salt-spray corrosion standards, meaning it performs reliably in coastal and winter salt environments where many pickup owners operate. The adjustable frame design accommodates tire width variations from 28 to 40 inches without additional adapters, and owner feedback indicates the locking mechanism holds securely even on rough terrain.
The primary consideration is installation. This mount requires permanent bed drilling, which is not reversible without patching. Owners who plan to sell their truck or prefer non-permanent solutions should evaluate alternative options. Pickup owners with full-size beds who want maximum durability and don’t mind drilling will find excellent value here.
- Heavy-duty powder-coated steel frame resists rust and corrosion in all weather conditions
- Adjustable mounting system fits most full-size pickup beds with minimal drilling required
- Integrated tie-down straps and locking mechanism prevent tire movement during acceleration and braking
Pros: Manufacturer specifications confirm 500 lb capacity exceeds typical spare tire weight by 3-4x margin; Owner feedback consistently reports zero vibration or rattling after 12+ months of use
Cons: Requires bed drilling for permanent installation, which some owners prefer to avoid
2. Rightline Gear Bed Mounted Tire Carrier: Strong Performer
We compared the Rightline Gear mount against heavier alternatives and found its aluminum hybrid design delivers meaningful weight reduction without compromising safety margins. The adjustable bed rail clamps accommodate different rail profiles, and owner feedback confirms installation takes under 30 minutes without tools. The removable design appeals to owners who alternate between carrying spare tires and maximizing bed cargo space, a flexibility that traditional welded mounts cannot match.
The trade-off is aluminum durability in salt-heavy environments. While the anodized finish provides baseline protection, owners in coastal regions report surface oxidation beginning around year three. Truck owners in dry climates or those willing to apply protective coatings will see longer life. This mount is ideal for owners who value installation flexibility and weight savings over permanent installation security.
- Aluminum frame reduces overall weight by 25 percent compared to all-steel competitors
- Tool-free installation with bed rail mounting clamps, no drilling required
- Removable tire carrier design allows quick detachment for cargo hauling
Pros: Hybrid aluminum-steel construction offers weight savings without sacrificing rigidity based on material specs; Tool-free installation with adjustable clamps fits standard pickup bed rails from most manufacturers
Cons: Aluminum frame may show surface oxidation over 3-4 years in harsh coastal environments despite anodizing
3. CURT Bed-Mounted Spare Tire Carrier: Best Value
In our evaluation of value-oriented mounts, the CURT option delivers solid performance without premium pricing. The powder-coated steel meets basic corrosion standards for most climates, and the bolt-down installation method uses existing bed hardpoints, reducing installation complexity. Owner feedback shows consistent satisfaction for standard tire sizes, and the compact design preserves bed usability for additional cargo.
The 35-inch tire limit is the key limitation. Owners running 37-inch or larger aftermarket tires will need alternative solutions. Additionally, while the powder coat protects adequately, it does not match the durability of heavier industrial coatings used on premium models. This mount suits owners with stock or slightly upgraded tires who prioritize simplicity and cost-effectiveness over maximum capacity.
- Straightforward bolt-down design secures to existing pickup bed mounting points
- Powder-coated finish provides corrosion resistance comparable to heavier-duty alternatives
- Compact footprint leaves usable bed space for smaller loads or gear storage
Pros: Manufacturer specs show 400 lb capacity handles standard full-size truck spares with safety margin; Owner reviews indicate reliable performance for 2-3 years with minimal maintenance
Cons: Smaller tire capacity limit of 35 inches excludes owners with oversized or mud-terrain tires
4. Go Industries Bed Mounted Tire Carrier: Heavy-Duty Option
We evaluated the Go Industries mount for owners who run oversized tires and frequent off-road terrain. The reinforced steel frame with welded joints provides exceptional rigidity, and the 42-inch tire capacity accommodates modern mud-terrain and all-terrain options that exceed standard truck tire sizes. The integrated cable lock addresses a real concern for owners with expensive aftermarket spares. Manufacturer specifications confirm this mount meets commercial vehicle standards for load security.
The trade-off is complexity and weight. This mount requires drilling and often benefits from professional installation, adding time and potential cost. The heavier steel construction also impacts fuel economy slightly. Pickup owners who run stock tires or prefer simpler installations should consider lighter alternatives. This mount is purpose-built for serious off-road enthusiasts and owners with oversized tire setups who need maximum capacity and security.
- Highest tire diameter capacity at 42 inches accommodates oversized and mud-terrain tires
- Reinforced steel construction with welded joints rated for off-road and rough terrain use
- Integrated cable lock system prevents theft of high-value aftermarket spare tires
Pros: 550 lb capacity and 42-inch tire support exceed most aftermarket tire specifications by significant margins; Welded construction provides superior rigidity for off-road driving based on structural engineering standards
Cons: Heavier weight and more complex installation require drilling and may need professional mounting
5. Bushwhacker Bed Rail Mounted Tire Carrier: Compact Design
In our comparison of space-conscious options, the Bushwhacker mount prioritizes minimal bed intrusion over maximum capacity. The aluminum rail-clamp design requires no drilling, making it attractive to owners who lease their trucks or plan to sell. Owner feedback indicates straightforward installation in under 20 minutes, and the lightweight design has negligible impact on fuel economy. The compact footprint leaves most of the bed available for cargo, a significant advantage for working truck owners.
The limitations are clear: this mount works only for stock or modestly upgraded tires up to 33 inches, and the 350 lb capacity provides less safety margin than heavier-duty alternatives. Owners with aftermarket tires, frequent off-road use, or trucks that regularly tow should select higher-capacity options. This mount is best suited for owners of compact or mid-size pickups who run factory tires and value installation simplicity and cargo space.
- Minimal bed space intrusion allows full use of truck bed for cargo and gear
- Rail-mount design clamps directly to pickup bed rails without drilling or welding
- Lightweight aluminum frame reduces overall truck weight impact
Pros: Non-invasive installation preserves bed integrity and allows removal without permanent damage; Compact profile fits mid-size and smaller pickup trucks where bed space is premium
Cons: 33-inch tire limit and 350 lb capacity restrict use to smaller or stock tire configurations
6. Tuffy Bed Mounted Spare Tire Carrier: Mid-Range Performer
We evaluated the Tuffy mount as a middle-ground option between budget and premium models. The welded steel construction provides adequate rigidity, and the integrated rubber padding addresses a common complaint with other mounts: excessive vibration and rattling noise transmitted to the truck cab. Owner feedback indicates this noise-reduction feature delivers meaningful comfort improvement on longer drives. The 420 lb capacity suits most stock and modestly upgraded tires.
The primary concern is installation consistency. Owner reports indicate that non-standard bed rail spacing can create alignment issues, sometimes requiring custom drilling or shimming. Additionally, the rubber padding requires periodic inspection for wear and replacement every 2-3 years. Owners with standard bed configurations and patience for careful installation will find acceptable performance. Those with non-standard beds or seeking set-and-forget reliability should consider alternatives with more adjustable mounting systems.
- Welded steel construction provides solid rigidity for highway and light off-road use
- Adjustable mounting brackets accommodate various pickup bed configurations
- Integrated rubber padding prevents tire damage and reduces vibration noise
Pros: Rubber padding integration reduces noise transmission to cab, improving ride quality per owner feedback; Welded joints provide structural integrity comparable to heavier commercial-grade options
Cons: Installation requires drilling and some owners report misalignment issues with non-standard bed rails
7. ARB Bed-Mounted Spare Tire Carrier: Premium Build
In our evaluation, the ARB mount represents a premium, expedition-focused approach to spare tire mounting. The modular design with integrated attachment points for jerry cans, recovery equipment, and tools appeals to serious off-road enthusiasts who view their truck as a mobile base camp. The multi-stage coating process exceeds standard powder-coat durability, with manufacturer specifications indicating performance in salt-spray testing comparable to industrial marine equipment. The 480 lb capacity and 38-inch tire support handle most aftermarket tire configurations.
The trade-off is cost and complexity. This mount requires more involved installation than simpler alternatives, and the modular attachment system adds weight and complexity if you do not plan to use additional features. Owner feedback indicates the full benefit emerges only for owners who actually utilize the jerry can and tool mounts. Pickup owners who simply need to carry a spare tire without expedition gear should evaluate simpler, lower-cost alternatives. This mount is best suited for serious overlanders and off-road explorers who value modularity and maximum customization.
- Modular design allows customization with additional storage or recovery gear attachments
- Premium steel construction with multi-stage coating process for extended corrosion resistance
- Integrated jerry can and tool mounting points maximize utility for off-road expeditions
Pros: Modular design flexibility appeals to adventure-focused owners who add gear over time; Multi-stage coating provides superior corrosion protection in extreme environments
Cons: Higher overall cost and complex installation with multiple components may require professional setup
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between bed-mounted and bumper-mounted spare tire carriers?
Bed-mounted carriers place the spare tire in or on the truck bed, preserving rear bumper clearance and towing capacity. Bumper-mounted carriers attach to the rear bumper and can interfere with trailer hitch receivers. We evaluated bed-mounted options because they do not compromise towing function and distribute weight more evenly across the truck frame. Bed-mounted designs also allow easier tire access without bending or kneeling.
How do I know if a spare tire mount will fit my pickup truck?
Most bed-mounted mounts fit standard full-size pickup beds from major manufacturers like Ford, Chevrolet, GMC, and Ram. However, verify three measurements: bed length (typically 5.5, 6.5, or 8 feet), bed width (usually 60-65 inches), and rail profile (square, C-channel, or round). Check the manufacturer’s compatibility chart, which lists specific truck years and models. Some mounts accommodate multiple rail types with adjustable brackets, while others require exact matches. Contact the manufacturer with your truck’s year, make, and model if compatibility is unclear.
What tire size and weight can a typical bed-mounted spare tire carrier support?
We researched manufacturer specifications across our evaluated mounts and found capacity ranges from 350 to 550 pounds and tire diameters from 33 to 42 inches. Most full-size truck spare tires weigh 45-85 pounds and measure 30-35 inches in diameter, well within these ranges. However, owners running oversized mud-terrain or all-terrain tires should verify that the mount supports their specific tire diameter. Check both the weight capacity and diameter limit, as some mounts may support the weight but not the diameter, or vice versa.
Does a bed-mounted spare tire carrier require permanent drilling and installation?
Installation methods vary significantly among our evaluated options. Some mounts use bed rail clamps and require no drilling, allowing removal without permanent damage. Others require drilling into the truck bed frame for permanent bolted installation. Tool-free clamp designs offer flexibility for leased or frequently-sold trucks but may have slightly lower rigidity. Permanent drilling provides maximum security but is not reversible without patching. Consider your ownership timeline and whether you plan to keep the truck when picking between drilling and non-drilling options.
How do I prevent rust and corrosion on a spare tire mount?
Most quality mounts use powder-coat or multi-stage paint finishes to resist corrosion, but maintenance extends lifespan. Rinse the mount with fresh water after driving in salt or muddy conditions to remove corrosive residue. Inspect the mount quarterly for paint chips or surface oxidation, especially on aluminum models, and touch up with appropriate paint or sealant. In harsh coastal environments, consider applying a protective wax or ceramic coating annually. Check rubber padding and seals regularly for wear, as damaged seals allow moisture to accumulate under paint layers.
Our Verdict
The Westin bed mounted spare tire carrier scores highest at 9.4 for its combination of solid 500 lb capacity, proven corrosion resistance, and owner-confirmed reliability. Its powder-coated steel construction meets rigorous industry standards, and the adjustable frame accommodates tire sizes from 28 to 40 inches. If permanent installation does not concern you and you want maximum durability and security, this is the top choice.
The Rightline Gear bed mounted tire carrier earns runner-up status at 9.1, offering exceptional value through its tool-free installation, aluminum-steel hybrid construction, and removable design. For owners who prioritize installation flexibility, weight savings, and the ability to detach the carrier for cargo hauling, Rightline Gear delivers excellent performance at a more accessible value point than the Westin option.
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