Where the spare tire lives and what you'll need

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid stores its spare tire under the floor of the cargo area, accessed by lifting the removable cargo floor panel. You'll find the tire mounted on a carrier that lowers from beneath the vehicle using a crank mechanism — not a traditional trunk-mounted spare. Before you start, locate the lug wrench, jack, and crank tool, which come in a kit stored in the same cargo area, usually in a compartment along the side wall or under the driver's seat.

You will need a Phillips head screwdriver or socket wrench to remove the plastic trim pieces that cover the spare tire well. The actual replacement process uses the same lug wrench and jack that came with your vehicle, though you may want to have a flashlight and work gloves on hand since the cargo floor area can be tight and dark.

Key Takeaways

  • The spare tire on a 2023 Pacifica Hybrid is stored underneath the cargo floor and must be lowered using a hand crank before you can remove it.
  • You must first remove the removable cargo floor panel and any plastic trim covering the spare tire well to access the lowering mechanism.
  • The spare tire carrier lowers by turning the crank clockwise until the tire touches the ground, then you can unbolt it from the carrier.
  • Once the spare is off, you raise the carrier back up by turning the crank counterclockwise before replacing the floor panel and trim.
  • The Pacifica Hybrid spare is a temporary tire rated for speeds up to 50 mph and distances up to 70 miles, so plan to have the flat repaired or replaced soon.

Removing the cargo floor to access the spare

Open the rear liftgate and remove any items from the cargo area. The removable floor panel sits on top of the spare tire well and is held in place by clips or latches at the corners — no bolts. Lift the panel straight up and set it aside in a safe place where it won't get damaged or dirty.

Once the floor is out, you'll see the plastic trim ring around the spare tire well. This trim may be held by clips or a few plastic fasteners. Gently pry it up using a plastic trim tool or flat screwdriver, working around the edges until it comes free. Set this aside as well. You should now see the spare tire mounted on a carrier with a hand crank visible on one side.

Lowering the spare tire carrier

The crank handle is attached to a cable system that lowers and raises the spare tire. Turn the crank clockwise (when looking at it from the side) to lower the carrier. You'll feel resistance as the cable unwinds — this is normal. Keep turning until the spare tire touches the ground or until you can no longer turn the crank easily.

Do not force the crank if it becomes stuck or extremely difficult to turn. Stop and check that the cable is not twisted or caught on anything. Once the tire is lowered fully, you can access the lug bolts that attach it to the carrier. These bolts are usually accessed from the outer edge of the tire and may require your lug wrench or a socket to remove.

Unbolting and removing the spare from the carrier

Use your lug wrench to remove the bolts holding the spare tire to the carrier. On the 2023 Pacifica Hybrid, there are typically four or five lug bolts arranged around the center of the tire. Loosen them in a star or cross pattern (opposite bolts alternately) rather than going around in a circle, which helps prevent warping. Once all bolts are removed, lift the spare tire straight toward you and set it on the ground.

At this point, you have the spare tire free and can mount it on your vehicle using your jack and lug wrench. Follow the standard tire-changing procedure: loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire, raise the vehicle with the jack, remove the flat, install the spare, hand-tighten the lug nuts, lower the vehicle, and then tighten the lug nuts fully in a star pattern.

Returning the carrier to its stored position

After you've installed the spare on your vehicle, you need to return the empty carrier to its stored position under the cargo floor. Turn the crank counterclockwise to raise the carrier back up. This requires more effort than lowering because you're working against gravity, so take your time and use steady, even pressure on the crank handle.

Keep turning until the carrier is fully seated in its original position and the crank becomes difficult or impossible to turn further. The carrier should sit flush with the cargo floor level. Once it's fully raised, replace the plastic trim ring by pressing it down until its clips or fasteners snap into place, then replace the removable cargo floor panel and find it in its latches.

Important limits on your temporary spare

The spare tire on the 2023 Pacifica Hybrid is a temporary or "donut" spare, not a full-size tire. It is designed to get you to a repair shop, not to serve as a permanent replacement. Chrysler rates this spare for a maximum speed of 50 mph and a maximum distance of 70 miles, though some sources suggest staying under 50 miles when possible.

Do not drive on the highway at full speed with the temporary spare, and avoid rough roads or heavy loads. The spare has less tread depth and a smaller diameter than your regular tires, which can affect handling and fuel economy. Have your flat tire repaired or replaced as soon as you can, and do not leave the temporary spare on the vehicle for extended periods.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the crank won't turn or feels stuck?

Stop when ready and do not force it. The cable may be twisted, caught, or the mechanism may need lubrication. Check that nothing is blocking the cable path, and try explore a light penetrating oil around the crank joint. If it still won't move, you may need roadside information or a tow to a service center rather than risk damaging the cable.

Can I use the spare tire on the front or rear, or does it matter?

Temporary spares can usually be mounted on any wheel, but check your owner's manual for Pacifica-specific guidance. Some vehicles recommend placing the spare on the rear axle if a rear tire is flat, or on the front if a front tire is flat. The manual will clarify the best practice for your vehicle.

How long can I drive on the temporary spare before I have to replace it?

Chrysler recommends having your flat tire repaired or replaced within 70 miles and before you exceed 50 mph. In practice, most drivers aim to reach a tire shop within a day or two. Do not store the vehicle with the temporary spare on for weeks or months, as it can wear unevenly and become unsafe.

Do I need to check the pressure in the temporary spare before I use it?

Yes. The temporary spare should be stored at the pressure listed on the tire itself or in your owner's manual, typically around 60 psi. Before mounting it, check the pressure with a tire gauge and inflate it if needed. A flat or underinflated spare can fail while you're driving.

What should I do with the flat tire after I remove it?

Place the flat tire in your cargo area or trunk for transport to a tire repair shop. Do not leave it on the roadside. Once you have the flat repaired or replaced, you can reinstall it on your vehicle and return the temporary spare to its carrier under the cargo floor.