2021 Ford Ranger — Tire Size & Pressure

Quick answer

• OEM Tire Size: 255/65R17, 265/65R17, 265/60R18
• Recommended Cold Tire Pressure: 38 PSI (front) / 38 PSI (rear)
• Bolt Pattern: 6x139.7mm
• Wheel Size: 17x8 ET55, 18x8 ET55
• Load Index/Speed Rating: 112S, 110S (varies by tire/trim)
• Spare Tire Size: Varies by trim (full-size or temporary)
• TPMS Frequency: 315 MHz

Tire sizes by trim

Recommended replacement tires

When it's time for new tires on your 2021 Ford Ranger, you have many excellent options depending on your driving needs and budget. Here are a few popular choices across different price tiers:

• Michelin Defender LTX M/S (Premium): Often considered a top-tier all-season truck tire, the Defender LTX M/S offers excellent tread life, a comfortable and quiet ride, and strong all-weather traction. Expect to pay around $200-$250 per tire, depending on the size.

• BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 (Premium Off-Road): For Ranger owners who venture off-road, the KO2 is a legendary choice. It provides aggressive traction in dirt, mud, and snow, along with surprising on-road manners and durability. Prices typically range from $200-$270 per tire.

• Falken Wildpeak A/T3W (Mid-Range All-Terrain): A fantastic blend of off-road capability and on-road comfort, the Wildpeak A/T3W is a very popular choice for truck owners. It offers good snow and wet traction and a robust design for light off-roading. These generally cost between $170-$220 per tire.

• Firestone Destination LE3 (Mid-Range All-Season): If your Ranger spends most of its time on paved roads, the Destination LE3 is an excellent all-season option. It provides a quiet ride, good wet and dry traction, and solid tread life at a more accessible price point. Look for prices in the $150-$190 range.

When to inflate to max load psi

The 2021 Ford Ranger is a light-duty truck, and the recommended cold tire pressure of 38 PSI (front and rear) found on your door placard is calibrated for optimal handling, ride comfort, and fuel economy under normal driving conditions and typical loads. You generally do not need to inflate your tires to the "max load psi" (also known as "maximum cold inflation pressure") listed on the tire's sidewall.

Max load psi is the absolute maximum pressure a tire can safely hold to carry its maximum rated load. For light-duty vehicles like the Ranger, exceeding the recommended door placard pressure can lead to:

• A harsher, less comfortable ride
• Reduced traction due to a smaller contact patch with the road
• Premature wear in the center of the tire tread
• Potentially compromised handling

Only consider slightly increasing tire pressure (a few PSI above the placard recommendation) when consistently carrying significantly heavy loads nearing your Ranger's payload capacity or when towing heavy trailers. Even then, consult an owner's manual or a tire professional for guidance. Never exceed the max cold inflation pressure listed on the tire's sidewall.

Lug nut torque & pattern

Proper lug nut torque is crucial for wheel retention and safety. For the 2021 Ford Ranger, the recommended lug nut torque specification is:

• Lug Nut Torque: 100 lb-ft (135 Nm)

Always tighten lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even seating of the wheel against the hub. This prevents warping of the brake rotor or wheel, which can lead to vibrations or loose wheels. After driving approximately 50-100 miles after a wheel removal/reinstallation, it's a good practice to re-check the lug nut torque.

Common tire issues for this vehicle

The 2021 Ford Ranger is generally robust, but like any vehicle, certain tire-related issues can arise:

• Uneven Tire Wear: Misalignment, improper tire pressure (under or over-inflation), or worn suspension components can lead to uneven tire wear patterns (e.g., feathering, cupping, or wear on the edges or center). Regular tire rotations and alignments are key to preventing this.

• TPMS Malfunctions: The 315 MHz Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors can occasionally fail due to battery depletion (typically after 5-7 years) or damage. If your TPMS warning light comes on and your tire pressures are correct, a sensor may need replacement or reprogramming.

• Road Hazard Damage: As a truck, Rangers are often driven on various terrains. Punctures, sidewall bubbles, or cuts from road debris or off-road obstacles are always a possibility. Regular inspection of your tires can help catch these issues early.

• Vibrations: Out-of-balance tires or bent wheels are common causes of vibrations felt through the steering wheel or seat. If you notice vibrations, have your tires balanced and wheels inspected by a professional.

Need new tires? Find a trusted shop on Repairius.