Buying Guides
How to Choose Spare Tire Cover Size: Complete Guide (27–35 Inches)
May
Knowing how to choose spare tire cover size correctly is the single most important step before buying — because spare tire covers are custom-made and non-refundable if you order the wrong size.
In this guide you’ll learn exactly how to choose spare tire cover size using 2 reliable methods, understand the full 27–35 inch size chart, know when to pick 34″ V2, and avoid the 4 mistakes that cause most wrong orders.
Jump to what you need:
- Why Size Matters
- How to Measure (2 Methods)
- Reading the Sidewall Code
- Size Chart 27–35 Inches
- What Is 34″ V2?
- Size by Vehicle Type
- Camera Hole Option
- Common Mistakes
- FAQ
Why Choosing the Right Spare Tire Cover Size Matters
A spare tire cover that’s the wrong size doesn’t just look bad — it can fail completely at its job of protecting your tire.
| Size Problem | What Happens | Real Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Too small | Won’t fit over the tire, or tears during installation | Wasted order — non-refundable |
| Too large | Sags, wrinkles, flaps at highway speeds — can fly off | Lost cover + exposed tire |
| Slightly off | Looks sloppy, wears out faster from friction | Early replacement needed |
Because our covers are custom-printed to order, there are no returns for incorrect size selections. Taking 2 minutes to measure correctly before ordering saves you from an expensive mistake.
How to Choose Spare Tire Cover Size: 2 Reliable Methods
There are two ways to find your correct spare tire cover size. Method 1 is faster and more accurate — use Method 2 only if the sidewall code is unreadable.
Method 1: Read the Tire Sidewall Code (Fastest & Most Accurate)
Look at the side of your spare tire. You’ll see a code stamped into the rubber like this:
LT265/70R17
Here’s exactly what each number means and how to use it to choose spare tire cover size:
| Part of Code | Example Value | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| LT | LT | Light Truck tire (P = Passenger) |
| 265 | 265 | Tire width in millimeters |
| 70 | 70 | Aspect ratio — sidewall height is 70% of width |
| R | R | Radial construction |
| 17 | 17 | Wheel/rim diameter in inches |
How to calculate tire diameter from the sidewall code:
- Sidewall height = width × aspect ratio ÷ 100 → 265 × 70 ÷ 100 = 185.5mm
- Total sidewall = 185.5 × 2 = 371mm
- Convert to inches = 371 ÷ 25.4 = 14.6 inches
- Add wheel diameter = 14.6 + 17 = 31.6 inches
- Round to nearest inch → Choose 32″ cover
Shortcut: Use a free online tire diameter calculator — enter your sidewall code and get the diameter instantly. Then match to our size chart below.
Method 2: Measure the Tire Manually
Use this method only if the sidewall code is worn off or unreadable:
- Make sure the spare tire is fully inflated
- Use a tape measure — stretch it straight across the tire
- Measure from rubber edge to rubber edge — not rim to rim
- Record the measurement in inches
- Round to the nearest inch to find your cover size
Between two sizes? Always choose the larger size. A slightly large cover installs easily and fits cleanly. A slightly small cover may tear during installation.
Spare Tire Cover Size Chart (27–35 Inches)
Once you know how to choose spare tire cover size using the methods above, use this chart to confirm the right cover:
| Tire Diameter | Cover Size | Common Vehicles | Typical Tire Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 27 inches | 27″ | Small trailers, compact SUVs | ST205/75R14 |
| 28 inches | 28″ | Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 | 225/65R17 |
| 29 inches | 29″ | Mid-size SUVs, travel trailers | 235/65R17 |
| 30 inches | 30″ | Jeep Wrangler stock, Ford Bronco Sport | P225/75R16 |
| 31 inches | 31″ | Jeep Wrangler JL, Toyota 4Runner | P245/75R17 |
| 32 inches | 32″ | Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, Land Rover | LT265/70R17 |
| 33 inches | 33″ | Jeep off-road builds, lifted SUVs | 285/70R17 |
| 34 inches | 34″ | Jeep with 315/70R17 (standard tread) | 315/70R17 |
| 34 inches (wide) | 34″ V2 | Aggressive off-road tires, thick tread | 315/70R17 MT/AT |
| 35 inches | 35″ | Heavily lifted Jeeps, extreme off-road | 35×12.50R17 |
Not sure after using the chart? Visit our full Size Guide or contact our team — we help you choose the right size every day.
What Is 34″ V2 and When Do You Need It?
34″ V2 is one of the most misunderstood sizes when people are figuring out how to choose spare tire cover size for off-road vehicles.
The key difference: Two tires can both measure 34 inches in diameter but have completely different widths and tread profiles. Standard 34″ covers are sized for regular all-terrain tires. The V2 version is wider and deeper to accommodate aggressive mud-terrain and off-road tires.
| Choose Standard 34″ | Choose 34″ V2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Tire type | All-terrain, highway | Mud-terrain, extreme off-road |
| Tread | Standard depth | Thick, aggressive, chunky |
| Sidewall | Standard profile | Reinforced, Load Range E |
| Common tires | BFG KO2, Falken Wildpeak AT | BFG KM3, Nitto Ridge Grappler, Toyo MT |
| Feel when installing standard cover | Snug, fits well | Too tight — may not go on |
Simple rule: If you run mud-terrain tires or the standard 34″ cover feels too tight, choose 34″ V2.
How to Choose Spare Tire Cover Size by Vehicle
These are general starting points — always verify by checking your actual spare tire’s sidewall code before ordering.
Jeep Wrangler Spare Tire Cover Size
| Model / Setup | Stock Tire | Recommended Cover |
|---|---|---|
| JK/JL stock | P245/75R17 | 31″ |
| Wrangler with LT265/70R17 | LT265/70R17 | 32″ |
| Rubicon stock | LT285/70R17 | 32″ |
| Off-road build (standard AT) | 315/70R17 | 34″ |
| Off-road build (MT tires) | 315/70R17 MT | 34″ V2 |
| Lifted with 35s | 35×12.50R17 | 35″ |
Ford Bronco Spare Tire Cover Size
| Trim | Stock Tire | Cover Size |
|---|---|---|
| Base / Sport | 255/70R18 | 31″ |
| Badlands / Wildtrak | 285/70R17 | 33″ |
| Raptor / with 35s | 37×12.50R17 | 35″ |
Toyota 4Runner / SUV
- Stock 4Runner (265/70R17): 32″
- Lifted 4Runner: 33″–34″
- Honda CR-V / RAV4: 28″–29″
- Land Rover Defender: 32″–33″
RV & Trailer
- Small travel trailer (ST205/75R14): 27″
- Mid travel trailer (ST225/75R15): 29″
- Fifth wheel (ST235/80R16): 30″
- Class C motorhome: 31″
Camera Hole: An Important Part of Choosing the Right Cover
When choosing spare tire cover size, most people focus only on the diameter — but there’s a second equally important decision: with or without camera hole.
If your vehicle has a backup camera mounted on or near the spare tire, you need a cover with a camera hole cutout — otherwise the cover will block the camera completely.
| Choose “With Camera Hole” if: | Choose “No Camera Hole” if: |
|---|---|
| Backup camera image appears in reverse | No backup camera at all |
| Camera lens is visible on the spare tire | Camera is on the bumper or liftgate |
| Jeep Wrangler JL 2018+ with factory camera | Older Jeeps, most RVs, trailers |
→ For a complete list of vehicles that need a camera hole and how to check yours, see: Spare Tire Cover Camera Hole Guide
4 Common Mistakes When Choosing Spare Tire Cover Size
Mistake #1: Using Wheel Size Instead of Tire Diameter
This is the #1 most common error. A “17-inch wheel” means the rim diameter is 17 inches — your tire’s outer diameter will be 30–35 inches depending on the sidewall profile. Never use rim size to choose spare tire cover size. Always use the full outer tire diameter.
Mistake #2: Not Measuring the Actual Spare
If you’ve upgraded to aftermarket tires, your spare may not match what’s listed in your owner’s manual or on the door sticker. The spare is often the last tire changed. Measure the actual tire mounted on the back of your vehicle — don’t assume.
Mistake #3: Ignoring Tire Width for the 34″ V2 Decision
Two tires can both measure 34 inches tall but have very different widths. If you run aggressive off-road tires with thick tread and reinforced sidewalls, the standard 34″ cover will be too tight. This is why the V2 size exists — see the comparison table above.
Mistake #4: Ordering Without Checking the Camera Hole Option
Size and camera hole are two separate decisions. Once you know your size, take 30 seconds to check whether your vehicle has a rear-mounted backup camera before completing your order. A cover ordered without the hole cannot be modified after printing.
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Choose Spare Tire Cover Size
How do I know what size spare tire cover I need?
The fastest way is to read the sidewall code on your spare tire (example: LT265/70R17), enter it into a free tire diameter calculator, and match the result to our size chart. Alternatively, measure straight across the fully inflated tire from rubber edge to rubber edge.
What size spare tire cover do I need for a Jeep Wrangler?
Most stock Jeep Wranglers use a 31″ or 32″ cover. Lifted builds with 33s need a 33″ cover, 34-inch tires need a 34″ or 34″ V2 depending on tread type, and 35-inch setups need a 35″ cover. Always measure your actual spare — don’t assume it matches the vehicle’s stock spec.
What is the difference between 34″ and 34″ V2?
Both fit tires that measure approximately 34 inches in diameter. The V2 version is wider and has more depth to accommodate aggressive off-road tires with thick tread patterns and reinforced sidewalls. If you run standard all-terrain tires, choose 34″. If you run mud-terrain tires like BFGoodrich KM3 or Nitto Ridge Grappler, choose 34″ V2.
Will a slightly larger spare tire cover still work?
Yes — a cover that’s one inch larger than your tire will fit but may have a small amount of excess fabric at the back. It will stay on and protect the tire normally. A cover that’s one inch too small will be very difficult or impossible to install, and forcing it risks tearing the fabric.
Can I return a spare tire cover if I choose the wrong size?
Because all covers are custom-printed to order, incorrect size selections are not eligible for return or exchange. This is why measuring before ordering is essential — it takes 2 minutes and prevents a wasted order.
Does spare tire cover size change with tire brand?
Yes, slightly. Two tires both labeled “LT265/70R17” can vary by up to half an inch in outer diameter depending on the manufacturer’s specific construction. If you’re between two sizes, always order the larger one.
How do I measure a spare tire if it’s already mounted on my vehicle?
You can measure it while it’s mounted — just use a flexible tape measure and stretch it across the full diameter of the tire (rubber to rubber, not rim to rim). Make sure the tire is fully inflated before measuring for an accurate result.
Ready to Order the Right Size?
Now that you know how to choose spare tire cover size, browse our full collection — available in every size from 27″ through 35″, with hundreds of designs for Jeep, SUV, RV, and trailer owners.