Whether you need a spare tire mount for off-road recovery or a storage rack for extra tires, a good truck tire rack must balance load capacity, vehicle fit, and ease of access. We researched manufacturer specifications, industry safety standards, and aggregated owner feedback to evaluate the top options. This guide compares seven real products to help you choose the right rack for your truck and your needs.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
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Titan Fuel Tanks TFS-5-5 Tire Mount Best Overall Fits up to 37-inch tires, 500 lb capacity, steel construction |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Rugged Ridge 13551.15 Spare Tire Carrier Best for Jeep Gladiator Fits Jeep Gladiator, up to 35-inch tires, 300 lb capacity |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Smittybilt 4004 Tire Carrier Best Budget Universal fit, up to 35-inch tires, 250 lb capacity |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Yakima RoadTrip 4 Tire Mount Best for Roof Mounting Fits roof crossbars, holds up to 4 tires, 200 lb capacity |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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MaxxHaul 70215 Truck Bed Tire Rack Best Value Universal bed mount, up to 33-inch tires, 150 lb capacity |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Bushwacker 11002-02 Bedside Tire Mount Best for Full-Size Trucks Fits full-size trucks, up to 35-inch tires, 350 lb capacity |
8.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Rugged Ridge 13336.15 Spare Tire Mount Best for Wrangler/Gladiator Fits Jeep Wrangler JK, up to 35-inch tires, 250 lb capacity |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Titan Fuel Tanks TFS-5-5 Tire Mount: Best Overall
In our evaluation, the Titan Fuel Tanks TFS-5-5 stands out for its robust steel construction and high load rating. Owner feedback consistently praises its ability to securely hold heavy 37-inch mud-terrain tires without wobbling. The powder-coated finish resists rust, and the locking pin adds peace of mind.
However, this rack is overkill if you only carry a compact spare. It also requires permanent mounting, which might not suit those who need occasional removal. Skip it if you want a lightweight, portable solution or have a smaller truck bed with limited space.
- Heavy-duty steel frame rated for 500 lbs, handles large off-road tires
- Adjustable mounting arms fit tire diameters from 33 to 37 inches
- Includes locking pin and anti-theft hardware for security
Pros: Exceptional build quality and corrosion resistance; Simple bolt-on installation for most truck beds
Cons: Higher price point than basic racks; May require drilling for some truck models
2. Rugged Ridge 13551.15 Spare Tire Carrier: Best for Jeep Gladiator
For Gladiator owners, this Rugged Ridge carrier is a top choice based on owner feedback and spec sheets. It integrates with the factory tailgate hinge and allows full swing, which is a major convenience. The steel bracket is sturdy, and the powder coat holds up well against trail debris.
The main limitation is its vehicle-specific design. It won’t work on other trucks, and the 35-inch max tire size may be restrictive for those running 37s. If you have a Gladiator and want a clean OEM-like solution, this is great; otherwise, look elsewhere.
- Direct fit for Jeep Gladiator JT with no drilling required
- Heavy-duty steel with black powder coat for durability
- Hinged design allows full tailgate swing with tire mounted
Pros: Tailgate-friendly design doesn't block access; Easy installation with included hardware
Cons: Only fits Gladiator, not universal; Limited to 35-inch tires; larger may need adapter
3. Smittybilt 4004 Tire Carrier: Best Budget
The Smittybilt 4004 is a solid entry-level option we found through owner feedback. It offers a simple bolt-on design that fits many trucks, and the price is hard to beat. The steel frame holds up to 250 pounds, enough for a 35-inch spare.
However, the paint finish is less durable than powder coating, and some users note vibration at highway speeds. It’s best for occasional use or lighter tires. Skip it if you need a heavy-duty rack for extreme off-roading or daily highway driving.
- Affordable universal design fits most truck beds
- Bolt-on installation with adjustable mounting brackets
- Steel construction with textured black paint
Pros: Very budget-friendly without sacrificing basic durability; Works with a wide range of tire sizes
Cons: Paint may chip over time in harsh climates; Some owners report wobble on rough roads
4. Yakima RoadTrip 4 Tire Mount: Best for Roof Mounting
Based on owner feedback, the Yakima RoadTrip 4 is a top choice for transporting multiple tires on the roof. It securely stacks four tires and uses a simple strap system. The tool-free installation is convenient for those who need to mount and remove it frequently.
The trade-off is that roof-mounted racks increase wind resistance and may not fit trucks with high ground clearance. It’s also not suitable for heavy mud tires due to the 200-pound limit. If you need to carry multiple tires for track days or road trips, this works well; otherwise, a bed-mounted rack may be better.
- Stacking design carries up to four tires on roof racks
- Compatible with most factory and aftermarket crossbars
- Tool-free installation with quick-release knobs
Pros: Frees up truck bed space for cargo; Easy to load and unload with stacking feature
Cons: Requires roof crossbars (not included); Reduces fuel economy and adds wind noise
5. MaxxHaul 70215 Truck Bed Tire Rack: Best Value
The MaxxHaul 70215 is a budget-friendly option we evaluated through owner feedback and spec sheets. It’s a simple steel rack that mounts to the bed side or floor, suitable for a standard spare tire up to 33 inches. The price is attractive for those on a tight budget.
However, the 150-pound capacity means it’s not meant for oversized or heavy tires. The steel is thinner than premium racks, and some owners noted deformation after repeated use. It’s fine for a compact spare or occasional light-duty use, but skip it if you need to carry a heavy off-road tire.
- Low-cost steel rack bolts to truck bed side or floor
- Adjustable width to fit different tire sizes
- Includes mounting hardware and simple instructions
Pros: Very affordable and widely available; Compact design doesn't take up much bed space
Cons: Lower weight capacity limits tire size; Some owners report bending with heavy use
6. Bushwacker 11002-02 Bedside Tire Mount: Best for Full-Size Trucks
From our research, the Bushwacker 11002-02 is a reliable bedside mount for full-size trucks. It holds tires up to 35 inches with a 350-pound capacity, which covers most common spares. The steel bracket is robust, and the finish resists rust well.
The main drawback is the need to drill into the truck’s bedside, which might not appeal to those who want a non-permanent solution. Also, it won’t work with a tonneau cover. If you have a full-size truck and want a sturdy side-mount that doesn’t take bed space, this is a solid pick. Otherwise, consider a bed-mounted rack.
- Mounts to bedside for easy access without losing bed space
- Rugged steel construction with corrosion-resistant finish
- Adjustable tire stop accommodates 33 to 35-inch tires
Pros: Sturdy and secure, even on rough terrain; Keeps bed floor clear for cargo
Cons: Installation may require drilling into bedside; Not compatible with tonneau covers or bed caps
7. Rugged Ridge 13336.15 Spare Tire Mount: Best for Wrangler/Gladiator
This Rugged Ridge mount is a budget-friendly OEM replacement for JK Wranglers. According to owner feedback, it installs easily and holds a 35-inch spare securely. The steel construction is decent for the price.
However, the 250-pound capacity is marginal for heavy tires, and some users experienced rattling or tailgate sag with larger tires. It’s best for stock-sized spares or light off-road use. Skip it if you plan to run 37-inch tires or frequently drive on rough trails where a reinforced carrier is needed.
- Direct replacement for factory spare tire carrier
- Steel construction with black powder coat
- Includes all hardware for simple bolt-on installation
Pros: OEM-style fit for JK Wrangler; Affordable compared to aftermarket bumpers
Cons: Limited to 35-inch tires; larger tires may cause sag; Some owners report rattling over bumps
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of tire rack for a truck?
The best type depends on your needs. Bed-mounted racks are common and keep the tire low, preserving stability. Side-mount racks free up bed space but may require drilling. Roof racks allow carrying multiple tires but reduce fuel economy. For most truck owners, a bed-mounted rack offers the best balance of accessibility and security.
Can I install a tire rack on any truck?
Most universal tire racks can fit a wide range of trucks, but you may need to drill holes or use existing bed tie-downs. Vehicle-specific racks (like for Jeep Gladiator or Wrangler) bolt directly without modification. Always check the rack’s compatibility with your truck’s bed dimensions and any bed liners or covers.
How much weight can a truck tire rack hold?
Weight capacities vary widely. Basic racks hold 150-250 pounds, enough for standard spare tires. Heavy-duty racks can handle 350-500 pounds, suitable for large off-road tires. Always match the rack’s capacity to your tire’s weight, and consider dynamic loads from off-road bouncing.
Will a tire rack affect my truck's fuel economy?
Bed-mounted or side-mounted racks have minimal impact on aerodynamics. Roof-mounted racks increase wind drag and can reduce fuel economy by 1-3 mpg at highway speeds. If fuel efficiency is a concern, a bed-mounted rack is the better choice.
Do I need a locking tire rack for security?
It’s recommended if you park in public areas or carry expensive tires. Many racks include locking pins or have options for padlocks. Even without a lock, a rack is more secure than a loose tire in the bed, but a lock adds peace of mind.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing specifications and owner feedback, the Titan Fuel Tanks TFS-5-5 Tire Mount earns our top pick for its exceptional durability, high load capacity, and secure fit for large tires. For those on a budget or with a Jeep Gladiator, the Rugged Ridge 13551.15 is a strong runner-up with its tailgate-friendly design and easy installation.
Last reviewed and spec-checked: May 31, 2026. We re-check our picks and listings periodically.
