2017 Ford Explorer Tire Size & Pressure

Quick Answer

• OEM Tire Size: 245/60R18, 245/50R20, 255/50R20
• Recommended Cold Tire Pressure (Door Placard): 35 PSI (all tires)
• Bolt Pattern: 5x114.3mm
• Wheel Size: 18x8.0J, 20x8.0J
• Load Index/Speed Rating: 105H (for 245/60R18), 107H (for 245/50R20), 107H (for 255/50R20)
• Spare Tire Size: T165/80R17 (temporary spare)
• TPMS Frequency: 315 MHz

Tire Sizes by Trim

Recommended Replacement Tires

When it's time to replace the tires on your 2017 Ford Explorer, you have a variety of excellent options, depending on your driving style and budget. Here are a few popular choices:

• Michelin Defender LTX M/S (Premium Tier): This all-season tire is a top choice for its long tread life, quiet ride, and excellent wet and dry traction. Expect to pay around $180-$250 per tire, depending on size.

• Goodyear Assurance MaxLife (Mid-Range Tier): Offering a great balance of performance and value, the MaxLife provides reliable all-season traction and a comfortable ride with a good treadwear warranty. These typically range from $150-$200 per tire.

• Firestone Destination LE3 (Budget-Friendly Tier): A solid choice for those seeking a more economical option, the Destination LE3 offers dependable all-season performance and a comfortable ride. Prices generally fall between $120-$170 per tire.

When to Inflate to Max Load PSI

The 2017 Ford Explorer is a passenger SUV, not a heavy-duty truck. Therefore, you should never inflate your tires to the "max load" PSI listed on the tire's sidewall. This pressure is a maximum rating for the tire itself under extreme conditions and will result in an overly harsh ride, premature tire wear, and potentially unsafe handling for your Explorer. Always adhere to the recommended cold tire pressure found on your vehicle's door placard (35 PSI for all tires).

Lug Nut Torque & Pattern

The lug nuts on your 2017 Ford Explorer should be torqued to 100 ft-lbs (135 Nm). When tightening, always follow a star pattern to ensure the wheel is seated evenly and to prevent rotor warpage. After driving approximately 50-100 miles after a wheel removal or tire rotation, it's a good practice to re-check the lug nut torque to ensure they are still properly tightened.

Common Tire Issues for this Vehicle

Owners of the 2017 Ford Explorer may experience some common tire-related issues:

• Premature Tire Wear (Edge Wear): Some Explorer owners have reported issues with uneven or premature tire wear, particularly on the outer edges of the front tires. This can often be attributed to alignment issues or improper tire inflation. Regular tire rotations (every 5,000-7,500 miles) and ensuring proper alignment and pressure can help mitigate this.

• Road Noise: As tires wear, or if aggressive tread patterns are used, increased road noise can become noticeable. Opting for touring all-season tires known for their quiet ride can help minimize this.

• TPMS Sensor Malfunctions: Like many modern vehicles, the 2017 Explorer's TPMS sensors can sometimes malfunction. This can be due to sensor battery depletion (they typically last 5-10 years), damage during tire changes, or sometimes even interference. If your TPMS light is on, it's best to have it diagnosed by a professional.

• Vibrations: Tire imbalances, wheel imperfections, or even suspension component wear can lead to vibrations felt through the steering wheel or seat. If you notice vibrations, especially at certain speeds, have your tires and suspension inspected.

Need new tires? Find a trusted shop on Repairius.