2022 Ford Explorer Tire Size & Pressure

Quick answer

• OEM Tire Size: 255/65R18, 255/55R20, 275/45R21
• Recommended Cold Tire Pressure: 35 PSI (all trims/sizes)
• Bolt Pattern: 5x114.3mm
• Wheel Size: 18x8J, 20x8.5J, 21x9J
• Load Index/Speed Rating: 110H (255/65R18), 107H (255/55R20), 110V (275/45R21)
• Spare Tire Size: T165/80R17 (temporary spare)
• TPMS Frequency: 315 MHz

Tire sizes by trim

Recommended replacement tires

When it's time for new tires, consider these popular and well-regarded options for your 2022 Ford Explorer:

• Michelin Defender LTX M/S (Premium Tier): Known for excellent longevity, all-season traction, and a comfortable, quiet ride. These are a great choice for drivers who prioritize durability and refinement. Expect to pay around $250-$350 per tire, depending on size.
• Goodyear Assurance MaxLife (Mid-Tier): Offering a long-lasting tread life warranty and confident all-season performance, the MaxLife is a balanced option for everyday driving. Prices typically range from $200-$300 per tire.
• Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail (Mid-Tier): If you occasionally venture off-pavement or live in an area with varied weather conditions, the Wildpeak A/T Trail provides a more aggressive tread for light off-road capability while maintaining good on-road manners. Expect to pay around $180-$280 per tire.
• Kumho Crugen HP71 (Value Tier): A solid choice for those seeking a good balance of performance and value. The Crugen HP71 offers good wet and dry traction, a comfortable ride, and reasonable tread life. Prices are generally in the $150-$250 range per tire.

When to inflate to max load psi

The 2022 Ford Explorer is not a heavy-duty truck, so you should not inflate your tires to the "max load" PSI listed on the tire sidewall. This pressure is intended for the tire's maximum carrying capacity in commercial or extreme circumstances and will result in an unnecessarily harsh ride and uneven tire wear in a passenger SUV. Always adhere to the recommended cold tire pressure listed on your vehicle's door placard (35 PSI for all trims/sizes of the 2022 Ford Explorer).

Lug nut torque & pattern

Maintaining the correct lug nut torque is crucial for safety. For the 2022 Ford Explorer, the lug nut torque specification is 150 lb-ft (204 Nm). Always tighten lug nuts in a star or crisscross pattern to ensure even seating of the wheel against the hub. This prevents warping of the brake rotors and ensures the wheel is securely fastened.

Common tire issues for this vehicle

Owners of the 2022 Ford Explorer generally report good tire performance, but like any vehicle, some common issues can arise:

• Uneven Wear: Primarily due to improper tire pressure (under or overinflation), or a misaligned suspension. Regular rotations (every 5,000-7,500 miles) and alignments are key to preventing this.
• Road Noise: Some factory tires, particularly on higher trims with larger wheels, might generate more road noise as they wear down. Opting for a replacement tire known for quiet operation can alleviate this.
• Pothole Damage: The larger wheel sizes (20-inch and 21-inch) on some Explorer trims mean a lower tire sidewall profile. This increases the risk of tire and wheel damage when encountering potholes or road debris. Drive cautiously on rough roads.
• TPMS Malfunctions: While generally reliable, TPMS sensors can occasionally malfunction, displaying incorrect pressure readings or triggering a warning light. This can be due to sensor battery depletion, damage during tire service, or interference. If you experience a TPMS warning, check tire pressure manually and have a technician diagnose the system if the light persists.

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