Kia Sorento: Removing and storing the spare tire

The spare tire on your Kia Sorento is securely mounted underneath the vehicle chassis directly below the rear cargo area.

To remove the spare tire from its underbody storage carrier, follow these step-by-step procedures:

1. Open the rear liftgate fully to access the cargo floor.
2. Find the spare tire fixing bolt cover and remove the cover.

   If necessary, separate the tool case only after removing the retaining clamp.

3. Connect the extension socket and wheel lug nut wrench securely.
4. Use the assembled wheel lug nut wrench to loosen the central lowering bolt enough to release the suspended spare tire.
5. Turn the wrench counterclockwise until the spare tire lowers completely and rests flat on the ground.
6. After the spare tire reaches the ground, continue to turn the wrench counterclockwise and draw the spare tire out. Never rotate the wrench excessively beyond the tension limit, as this may damage the internal spare tire carrier cable mechanism.
7. Remove the retainer (1) from the center hub of the spare tire. During tire removal and subsequent reinstallation, try to keep the retainer cable taut to prevent mechanical backlashing or cable binding.

   To store the spare tire back into its carrier, follow these steps:

   1. Lay the tire flat on the ground with the valve stem facing upward.

   2. Slide the wheel back under the vehicle frame and guide the retainer (1) securely through the wheel center opening.

   3. Turn the wrench clockwise until you hear a distinct click indicating proper locking tension.

   WARNING

   Touching surface of the luggage compartment floor

   Do not touch the exposed metal surfaces or components of the luggage compartment floor while the engine is running or immediately after driving, as intense residual heat could result in serious bodily burns.

   Turn the engine OFF and wait until the exhaust and underbody components cool down completely, or wear protective heavy-duty gloves when accessing the spare tire area on your Kia Sorento.