Abstract: A vehicle includes a vehicle bumper attached to a vehicle frame. A tire carrier support structure is attached to the vehicle frame, wherein the vehicle bumper and tire carrier support structure are held together by a D-ring assembly. A tire carrier assembly having a tire carrier arm repeatably moveable between stowed and deployed positions, and raised and lowered positions, is carried by the tire carrier support structure.

Abstract: A vehicle includes a tire carrier support structure coupled with a vehicle frame. A tire carrier assembly is carried by the tire carrier support structure, wherein the tire carrier assembly is repeatably movable between raised and lowered positions. A tire cover assembly is carried by the tire carrier support structure. The tire cover assembly can be moved so that it extends upwardly when the tire carrier assembly is in the lowered position.

Abstract: A vehicle includes a vehicle frame having D-ring latch and hinge assemblies coupled thereto. The D-ring latch and hinge assemblies include a latch and hinge sleeve, respectively. A tire carrier assembly is rotatably mounted to the D-ring hinge assembly, wherein the tire carrier assembly is repeatably moveable between raised and lowered positions.

Abstract: A vehicle includes a vehicle frame which carries a trailer hitch mount. A tire carrier support structure is slidingly engaged with the trailer hitch mount. A mounting post and closure fastener are carried by the tire carrier support structure and a tire carrier assembly is rotatably mounted to the mounting post.

Abstract: Extensions extend rearwardly from the frame rails of an automotive vehicle and terminate in securement to a cross member. A rear bumper has a channel portion in which the cross member is received. An end segment of the cross member serves to carry a support for a spare tire carrier. The support projects upwardly through an aperture in the bumper.

Abstract: A vehicle spare wheel is carried by an arm swingable about a vertical axis away from the rear of the vehicle. A powered extensible control subsequently positions the arm about a horizontal axis during wheel removal. A base is mounted on the vehicle rear bumper and supports the arm and control therefor. A latch assembly on the arm and base includes a housing that receives a ball member when the spare wheel is stowed on the vehicle. A lock biases the ball member into housing engagement.