We have a '05 turbo with the optional exterior spare tire. It looks like the sensor failed and shows as the spare tire frame not being closed (like the door). The problem is this pretty much over rides the other warning lights, and even changing the clock time. So, I can't put it off any longer. Has anyone replaced one, or did you take it to a shop? Do you have a part number. It looks like the sensor is below the bottom hinge. Thanks for any help.

 

Some of them have the sensor in the bottom hinge, some do not. Assuming yours has it, all you really need to do is unplug the switch in the hinge to get rid of the warning.
There is another switch inside the latch, and if you still want your instrument cluster to show when the spare tire carrier is open, the control unit can be coded to use that switch instead of the one in the hinge.

 

That did it. thanks.

 

There used to be a code in the VIN number that showed model year (tenth digit?). Is there still some way to tell on new VIN codes?