A rooftop spare tire carrier is a practical way to move a spare tire outside the cabin and free up interior cargo space. The RANSOTO and Sidasu carriers are options for tires up to 35 inches; the adjustable-slot mount is useful when rack positioning matters; the Yakima carrier is designed for specified Yakima baskets; and the maXpeedingrods model includes installation hardware for baskets and platform-style racks. Check your rack dimensions and tire size before choosing.
| Carrier | Best For | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|
| RANSOTO | Buyers seeking a steel mount for tires up to 35 inches | Black-painted steel construction |
| Sidasu | Buyers prioritizing locking and vibration-control features | Lock mechanism and rubber isolators |
| Universal adjustable-slot carrier | Racks needing flexible positioning | Eight elongated mounting slots |
| Yakima | Owners of specified Yakima baskets | Quick-release design |
| maXpeedingrods | Basket or platform rack installations | Two described installation methods |
RANSOTO Universal Steel Roof Rack Tire Carrier
This carrier is designed for spare tires up to 35 inches and is intended to mount on top of a vehicle. Its steel construction has a black-painted finish, which the product information describes as rust-resistant and durable. Moving the tire to the roof can free space inside the vehicle for other cargo.
Best for: Buyers looking for a straightforward steel carrier for a tire within the stated 35-inch limit. It was selected for its clear tire-size specification and space-saving purpose.
Consideration: The provided details do not specify rack dimensions or a supported tire-width range. Confirm the carrier’s fit with your rack before ordering.
Sidasu Universal Roof Rack Tire Carrier
The Sidasu mount is specified for spare tires up to 35 inches. Its reinforced carbon-steel construction has a protective baked-on coating. Listed features include a locking mechanism with a magnetic base and two keys, as well as rubber isolators and magnetic stabilizers intended to reduce movement and noise during travel.
Best for: Buyers who want a carrier with stated anti-theft and vibration-control features. Those details make it a useful option for drivers who value a lock and a design intended to limit rattling.
Consideration: The product details do not give rack measurements or tire-width limits. Check those dimensions and the fit of the locking setup for your installation.
Adjustable-Slot Universal Spare Tire Mount
This carrier fits spare tires up to 35 inches in diameter and 9 inches wide. Its 12-by-4.7-inch base has eight elongated slots for horizontal and vertical adjustment, which can help position the mount on different roof racks and cargo baskets. A V-shaped wheel cradle and center threaded retainer hold the tire. Wedge-lock washers and nylon-insert lock nuts are described as helping resist loosening from vibration.
Best for: Buyers whose rack layout calls for more adjustment than a fixed-hole plate may offer. It was selected for its detailed mounting options and stated tire-width limit.
Consideration: Measure the rack before ordering; the product information specifically recommends checking rack dimensions.
Yakima Spare Tire Carrier
The Yakima carrier holds spare tires up to 35 inches and is listed for the LoadWarrior, MegaWarrior, and OffGrid baskets. Its quick-release feature is intended to make installation and removal easier, while the tire remains accessible outside the cabin. The product information notes that assembly is required.
Best for: Owners of one of the specified Yakima baskets who want a quick-release carrier. Its named basket fit makes it easier to evaluate than a mount with unspecified rack compatibility.
Consideration: The listed fit names particular baskets, so do not assume compatibility with other rack systems. Confirm your basket model before purchasing.
maXpeedingrods Roof Rack Spare Tire Carrier
This steel carrier is designed for roof-platform cargo baskets and tires up to 35 inches. The product information describes two mounting approaches: attaching a base plate beneath a basket with loops and J-hooks, or using T-nuts in the T-slots of a platform rack. The kit also includes two rubber strips to reduce friction and help prevent scratching, plus a lock intended to stop tire rotation or loss.
Best for: Buyers comparing basket and platform-rack installation options who want the described hardware and protective strips included.
Consideration: Follow the installation method that matches your rack style and verify that its attachment points suit the supplied hardware.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Rooftop Spare Tire Carrier
Will the carrier fit your tire?
Start with the tire’s outside diameter and width. Several options here specify a maximum diameter of 35 inches, but the adjustable-slot mount also lists a maximum width of 9 inches. Do not rely on diameter alone when width is important to fit.
Does it match your roof rack?
Check whether you have a cargo basket or a platform rack, then compare its attachment points and dimensions with the carrier’s instructions. The Yakima model names specific baskets, while the maXpeedingrods listing describes separate approaches for baskets and platform-style racks. For less specific listings, confirm fit before purchase.
Which security and stability features matter?
A lock can help secure a tire, while vibration-control features may help limit movement or noise. Sidasu lists a locking mechanism, rubber isolators, and magnetic stabilizers. The adjustable-slot model describes wedge-lock washers and nylon-insert nuts. These features are not identical, so compare the stated hardware with your needs.
What should you check before installation?
Review the mounting instructions, confirm that the tire and rack measurements fall within the listed limits, and make sure the spare can be reached when needed. A roof-mounted tire also occupies rack space that could otherwise hold cargo.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tire can these rooftop carriers hold?
Each product listed here specifies support for tires up to 35 inches in diameter. The adjustable-slot model also lists a maximum tire width of 9 inches.
Can any rooftop spare tire carrier fit any roof rack?
No. Compatibility depends on the carrier’s mounting design and the rack’s dimensions or attachment points. Check product fit details before ordering.
Do rooftop tire carriers include locks?
The Sidasu listing describes a locking mechanism and two keys. The maXpeedingrods listing says a lock is included. The other supplied product details do not specify a lock.
Will a roof-mounted spare free up interior space?
Yes, placing the spare on a roof rack can free interior cargo space, although the tire will use part of the rack’s available area.
What is the benefit of adjustable mounting slots?
Elongated slots allow the carrier to be positioned horizontally or vertically across a range of mounting points, subject to the rack’s dimensions and the carrier’s base size.