Guide to 2021+ Ford Bronco Tire Carrier Installation

The Ford Bronco’s rugged versatility and adventure-ready design make it perfect for off-roaders and automotive adventurers. However, many Ford buyers still choose to upgrade their factory vehicles with larger tires, lift kits, and many other enhancements.

As many 2021+ Bronco owners quickly discover, upgrading to larger tires often means upgrading the tire carrier to accommodate the added size and weight. This guide will walk you through installing a new tire carrier on a 2021 or newer Ford Bronco to ensure you have a securely mounted spare for all your off-road adventures.

Why a Stronger Tire Carrier Is Essential

Larger wheels and tires may enhance your Bronco’s trail capability and appearance, but they also demand more support. Upgrading ensures that your spare tire stays secure, avoids unnecessary stress on the tailgate, and keeps important features like your rear camera and brake light intact. When you replace it with an aftermarket option, you get greater adjustability and stronger construction to support heavier loads.

Getting Started: What You Need

Before kicking off your installation project, gather all the tools and materials required for a smooth process. Having everything ready will minimize frustration, waste less time, and help you stay focused on the task. For reference, here’s a complete list of tools you will need. However, don’t forget to reference your manufacturer’s guide.

• Cutting pliers
• Ratchet or impact wrench
• Various socket sizes
• Torx bits
• Wrenches
• Allen wrench
• Extensions for hard-to-reach bolts
• Brake cleaner fluid

Additionally, ensure you’re set up with proper lighting, a clean workspace, and any safety gear, such as gloves, to protect your hands during the installation process. Most importantly, have your new tire carrier kit on hand, as it will come with the specific hardware needed for the upgrade.

Step-by-Step Installation Process

Step 1: Removing the Factory Spare Wheel

To begin, loosen and remove the bolts securing the factory spare wheel using the appropriate socket wrench or tire iron. Carefully lift the tire off the carrier and set it aside in a safe, accessible location for remounting later.

This step is essential to gain access to the existing tire carrier. Double-check that you haven’t left any bolts or washers behind before proceeding.

Step 2: Unmount the Factory Tire Carrier

Next, use your tools to remove the eight bolts securing the factory tire carrier to the tailgate. Start with the bottom bolts and work your way up to prevent unnecessary strain on the carrier. Disconnect the wiring for the rear brake light and backup camera by unclipping the connectors.

Be mindful of supporting the weight of the carrier as you remove the last bolts to avoid causing damage to the tailgate or dropping the carrier. Set the carrier aside, storing it safely for reuse or disposal.

Step 3: Separate the Rear Camera and Brake Light

After removing the factory carrier, carefully disconnect the camera wiring and its mounting assembly. Handle the camera gently, as it’s a crucial component for rear visibility. Remove any screws holding the camera in place and detach it from the carrier.

Next, remove the brake light assembly by unscrewing its mounting hardware and separating the wiring harness. Take care not to scratch or damage the light during removal, as you’ll reinstall it later.

Step 4: Remove the Factory Tailgate Hinges

Before removing the factory tailgate hinges, support your tailgate with a block of wood, jack stand, or other sturdy support to prevent it from shifting or sagging. Open the tailgate and remove the interior panel covering the hinge bolts.

Starting with the top hinge, unbolt it completely, ensuring you keep all hardware for reference. Repeat this process for the lower hinge, carefully removing both hinges from the tailgate and body of the vehicle. Check the mounting areas for any dirt or debris and clean them if necessary to ensure a smooth installation of the new hinges.

Step 5: Install the New Hinges

Take the hinges included in your kit and position them carefully in place on the tailgate. Use the provided hardware to attach the hinges, securing the inner bolts loosely at first to allow room for alignment adjustments.

Follow the same procedure for the upper and lower hinges, ensuring an even fit. Double-check the hinge alignment as you tighten the bolts but avoid fully tightening them until the tailgate alignment has been confirmed in the next step.

Step 6: Align the Tailgate

Close the tailgate gently to check its alignment, ensuring there’s an even gap on all sides. If the tailgate appears uneven or misaligned, make small adjustments to the hinges until the alignment is perfect.

This step is crucial for ensuring the tailgate opens and closes smoothly without sticking or binding. Once you’re satisfied with the alignment, fully tighten all the bolts on the hinges, being careful not to overtighten and strip the heads.

Step 7: Attach the Tire Carrier Alignment Plate

Take the alignment plate included in the kit and mount it onto the tailgate using the factory bolts. This plate will help position the new tire carrier correctly.

Make any necessary minor adjustments to align the plate perfectly with the hinges before securing it. After completing the alignment, remove the alignment plate but keep it handy in case you need it for future adjustments or maintenance.

Step 8: Install the New Tire Carrier

Slide the Bronco spare tire carrier onto the mounted bolts on the tailgate. Use the provided hardware to loosely install the carrier, properly aligning all components before fully tightening the bolts. Gradually tighten the bolts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure and a secure fit.

Next, install the bolts onto the new hinges to secure the carrier in place. Double-check all connections at this stage to confirm you’ve installed everything correctly.

Step 9: Reinstall the Camera and Wiring

Take the rear camera and route its wiring through the hole in the new tire carrier. If the kit comes with a wiring extension, use it to ensure the camera can reach its new position.

Mount the camera onto the new carrier bracket, securing it with the provided screws. Test the camera’s function before proceeding to the next step.

Step 10: Mount the Brake Light

Attach the brake light to the carrier, positioning the height of the brake light assembly to accommodate the size of your spare tire. Ensure you can see it above the tire.

Reconnect the wiring harness securely and tidy up any loose wires using cable ties to prevent them from interfering with the operation of the tailgate or tire carrier.

Step 11: Final Adjustments and Spare Tire Mounting

Go over all bolts, screws, and connections to confirm they’re tightened to the recommended specifications. Test the tailgate to ensure it opens and closes smoothly without any resistance.

Finally, mount your spare tire onto the new carrier using the hardware provided. Tighten the lug nuts securely and give the tire a slight shake to confirm it’s firmly in place. Finally, your new tire carrier is ready for use, offering improved functionality and durability for your adventures.

Equip Your Bronco for the Journey Ahead

Installing a stronger, adjustable tire carrier is more than just a functional upgrade—it’s an essential step for any 2021+ Ford Bronco owner who takes off-road performance seriously. With the ability to handle larger tires while retaining vital features like the backup camera and brake light, a spare tire carrier ensures you’re ready for any challenge the trail throws your way.

Looking to upgrade your Bronco even further? Explore premium tire carriers and accessories at Turn Offroad to take your ride to the next level.