The spare tire on a 2015 Ram 1500 is stored under the truck bed and lowered with a built-in hoist using a crank from the tool kit. Once lowered, you detach the tire from the hoist and slide it out from beneath the truck. This guide explains the steps, safety tips, and what to check before and after removing the spare.
Where the spare sits and what you’ll need
Before you begin, gather the right tools and understand where the spare is located. The 2015 Ram 1500 carries a full-size spare under the bed, secured by a cable-driven hoist. Access is typically via a cover or panel in the rear under-bed area, and you’ll use the crank tool stored with the vehicle tools to unwind the cable and lower the spare.
Tools and items that help make the process safer and easier:
- Full-size spare tire
- Spare-tire tool kit, including the crank/wind-down tool
- Gloves for grip and protection
- Wheel chocks or wedges
- Flashlight or work light (if visibility is low)
With the right tools on hand, you’re prepared to locate the spare hoist and begin the lowering process.
How to lower the spare tire
Below is a step-by-step method to safely lower and remove the spare tire. Read through the steps before you start, so you know what to expect and can coordinate with a helper if needed.
- Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and place wheel chocks against the front and rear wheels to prevent movement.
- Locate the spare-tire hoist access under the rear section of the bed. Remove any protective panel or cover as needed to expose the hoist mechanism and the cable or strap that holds the spare in place.
- Insert the crank handle from the tool kit into the hoist drive point and begin turning to unwind the cable. Lower the spare slowly and steadily toward the ground, keeping your hands clear of the wheel and cable.
- When the spare tire rests on the ground, detach the tire from the hoist’s retaining bracket or cable clamp. Slide the tire out from beneath the truck carefully, using your legs to support the weight and avoiding any twisting motion that could strain the cable.
- Move the spare a safe distance away from the vehicle on solid ground. Return the hoist and tool to their storage locations and recheck that all access panels are secured, if you plan to drive with the spare removed or stored.
Always lower the tire slowly and avoid letting it free-fall, which could damage the tire, the hoist, or nearby components.
Safety tips and extra considerations
Handling weight and assistance
The spare on a Ram 1500 is sizable and heavy. If you’re alone or unsure of your strength, enlist a second person to help lift the tire away from the hoist once it’s lowered to the ground.
Inspecting the hoist and tire afterward
After removal, inspect the hoist cable and the securing bracket for any signs of wear, fraying, or corrosion. If you notice damage, avoid using the hoist until it’s repaired. Also check the spare for punctures or other damage before installation.
What to do next
If you’re changing a flat on the road, install the spare using the reverse steps: place the spare in the cradle, secure the cable, lower it until tight, and ensure the vehicle is safe to drive on the new tire. If you need to replace or repair the hoist itself, contact a professional or roadside assistance for proper service.
Summary
The 2015 Ram 1500 stores a full-size spare under the bed, secured by a cable-driven hoist. To remove it, gather the tool kit, locate the access point, use the crank to unwind the hoist, lower the tire slowly, detach it from the cable, and roll it away from the vehicle. Always park on level ground, use wheel chocks, and inspect both the spare and the hoist before reassembling or driving. If in doubt, consult the owner’s manual or call for professional assistance.