How To Carry a Spare Tire On the Roof

Question:

Our 2009 M Class came with run-flat tires. When they wore out we purchased regular tires and purchased an additional used identical rim for spare. We have carried it in the back and have tried a HitchGate, which was just ugly. We are considering either putting it on the roof or buying a mini inflatable spare. If i put it on the roof within a basket carrier, it will be a chore to lift on and off the roof basket. Any suggestions would be helpful and appreciated.

asked by: Charles S

Helpful Expert Reply:

The best option we have for you to store your spare tire would be on the roof of the vehicle with a roof rack and cargo basket. This option will be a bit of a struggle to get the tire off and on the roof but I would hope you do not have a flat tire enough for this to really be an issue save for every once in a great while.

For a cargo basket I recommend the Yakima MegaWarrior Large Roof Rack Cargo Basket part # Y07080 as this will then allow you to use the Spare Tire Carrier for Yakima Roof Cargo Baskets part # Y07076 which is lockable. If you don't already have crossbars on your 2009 Mercedes-Benz M-Class you can use the Malone AirFlow2 Roof Rack part # MPG216.

expert reply by: Conner L