2024 Ford Explorer Tire Size & Pressure Guide

Quick answer

• OEM Tire Sizes: (Varies by trim) 255/65R18, 255/55R20, 275/45R21
• Recommended Cold Tire Pressure: 35 PSI (all trims, front and rear, check door placard for exact figures)
• Bolt Pattern: 5x114.3mm
• Wheel Size: 18x8J, 20x8J, 21x9J (offset varies from +42mm to +50mm)
• Load Index/Speed Rating: Varies by tire size and trim (e.g., 110H, 107V, 107H)
• Spare Tire Size: T155/80D18 (Temporary Spare)
• TPMS Frequency: 315 MHz

Tire sizes by trim

Recommended replacement tires

When it's time to replace the tires on your 2024 Ford Explorer, you have a wide array of excellent options, offering different balances of performance, longevity, and price. Here are a few popular choices across various price points:

• Michelin Defender LTX M/S (Premium): Often considered a benchmark for all-season SUV and light truck tires, the Defender LTX M/S offers exceptional wet and dry traction, a comfortable and quiet ride, and impressive tread life. It's a pricier option but delivers excellent value over its lifespan. Expect to pay around $200-$280 per tire, depending on size.

• Goodyear Assurance MaxLife (Mid-Range): As its name suggests, the Assurance MaxLife is designed for long-lasting tread wear, making it a great option for drivers who prioritize longevity. It also provides reliable all-season performance and a comfortable ride. Prices typically range from $170-$240 per tire.

• Kumho Crugen HT51 (Value): For drivers seeking a high-quality all-season tire without breaking the bank, the Kumho Crugen HT51 is an excellent choice. It offers strong all-season traction, a quiet ride, and good tread life for its price point. These can usually be found for $140-$200 per tire.

• Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season (Premium Performance): If you have an ST trim or simply desire a more performance-oriented all-season tire, the Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season is a fantastic option. It provides sporty handling, excellent wet braking, and a comfortable ride, all while maintaining good all-season capabilities. Expect prices in the $220-$300+ range.

When to inflate to max load psi

The Ford Explorer is not a heavy-duty truck, and you should never inflate your tires to the "max load psi" indicated on the tire sidewall. This pressure is the maximum pressure the tire can safely hold when carrying its absolute maximum load capacity, and it's far too high for everyday driving in an Explorer. Overinflating your tires can lead to a harsh ride, premature tire wear (especially in the center of the tread), reduced traction, and an increased risk of tire damage.

Always refer to the tire pressure placard located on the driver's side door jamb for the recommended cold tire inflation pressures for your specific 2024 Ford Explorer model. This is the pressure at which your tires will deliver the best balance of safety, comfort, fuel economy, and tire life.

Lug nut torque & pattern

Proper lug nut torque is crucial for wheel retention and safety. For the 2024 Ford Explorer, the recommended lug nut torque is 150 ft-lbs (204 Nm). Always use a torque wrench to ensure accurate tightening. Do not rely on impact wrenches alone, as they can overtighten or undertighten the lug nuts.

When tightening lug nuts, always follow a star or crisscross pattern. This helps to ensure the wheel is seated properly and evenly against the hub, preventing warping of the brake rotors or uneven stress on the wheel studs. Tighten the lug nuts in several passes, gradually increasing the torque until the final specification is reached.

Common tire issues for this vehicle

The 2024 Ford Explorer is a popular SUV, and like any vehicle, it can experience certain common tire-related issues:

• Uneven Wear: Misalignment, improper tire pressure, or worn suspension components can lead to tires wearing unevenly. Regularly inspecting your tires for feathering, cupping, or excessive wear on one side can help diagnose these issues early.

• TPMS Malfunctions: The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) alerts you to low tire pressure. While generally reliable, sensors can sometimes fail due to battery depletion or physical damage. If your TPMS light comes on, it's important to check your tire pressures manually and have the system inspected if the light remains on after adjusting pressures.

• Road Hazard Damage: Potholes, nails, and other road debris can cause punctures, bulges, or sidewall damage. Regular visual inspections of your tires can help you spot these issues before they lead to a sudden flat.

• Vibrations: Vibrations can often be traced back to tire balance issues, out-of-round tires, or damaged wheels. If you notice vibrations, especially at certain speeds, have your tires and wheels inspected and balanced by a professional.

Regular tire rotations (every 5,000-7,500 miles), proper inflation, and alignment checks are key to maximizing tire life and preventing many of these common problems.

Need new tires? Find a trusted shop on Repairius.