2016 GMC Sierra 1500 Tire Size & Pressure Specs

As an ASE-certified master technician, I frequently service GM half-ton trucks like the 2016 GMC Sierra 1500. Whether you use your truck as a daily commuter, an off-road adventurer, or a dedicated tow rig, having the correct tires inflated to the proper pressure is critical for safety, handling, and fuel economy.

Here is your comprehensive tire specification guide for the 2016 GMC Sierra 1500.

Quick answer

• OEM Tire Sizes: 255/70R17, 265/70R17, 265/65R18, 275/55R20, or 285/45R22 (depending on trim and package).
• Recommended Cold Tire Pressure: 35 PSI front / 35 PSI rear (refer to the driver's side door jamb placard to confirm for your specific build).
• Bolt Pattern: 6x139.7 (also known as 6x5.5").
• Wheel Size & Offset: Rims range from 17x8" to 22x9" with a factory offset of 24mm to 31mm.
• Load Index / Speed Rating: Varies by size, typically 112T, 114S, or 111S (e.g., 112 = 2469 lbs per tire; T = 118 mph).
• Spare Tire Size: 255/70R17 or 265/70R17 steel wheel (mounted under the bed).
• TPMS Frequency: 315 MHz.

Tire sizes by trim

The 2016 Sierra 1500 came with several different wheel and tire packages across its trim levels (Base, SLE, SLT, and Denali). Always verify your current tire size before ordering replacements.

Note: Models equipped with the Z71 Off-Road package typically feature all-terrain tires in the 18-inch or 20-inch sizes.

Recommended replacement tires

When choosing a new set of tires for your Sierra 1500, match the tire type to your primary driving conditions. Here are a few top technician-recommended options:

• Premium All-Terrain: Michelin Defender LTX M/S (approx. $250–$300/tire) – Excellent highway manners, long tread life, and decent light-snow capability.
• Aggressive All-Terrain: BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 (approx. $260–$320/tire) – Perfect for Z71 models seeing frequent dirt or snow. Severe snow service rated (3PMSF).
• Mid-Tier Highway: Cooper Discoverer HT3 (approx. $180–$220/tire) – Great value for reliable highway cruising and towing without breaking the bank.
• Budget All-Season: Kumho Crugen HT51 (approx. $160–$190/tire) – A solid, affordable choice for daily commuting and light utility.

When to inflate to max load psi

While the 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 is a light-duty (half-ton) truck and doesn't require the extreme 80 PSI pressures of HD (2500/3500) models, towing and hauling heavily can still necessitate pressure adjustments.

If you are towing a heavy trailer or loading the bed to its maximum payload capacity, you may want to increase the rear tire pressure closer to the "Max Cold Press" listed on the tire's sidewall (typically 44 to 50 PSI for Standard Load tires, or up to 65-80 PSI if you've upgraded to E-load/LT-metric tires). Never exceed the maximum pressure molded into the tire's sidewall. Return the tires to the standard 35 PSI once the load is removed to prevent uneven center tread wear and a harsh ride.

Lug nut torque & pattern

Proper wheel installation is a matter of safety. If lug nuts are loose, the wheel can fall off; if they are over-tightened, the wheel studs can stretch or snap.

• Lug Nut Torque: 140 lb-ft
• Bolt Pattern: 6x139.7 (6x5.5")
• Thread Size: M14 x 1.5

Tech Tip: Always use a calibrated torque wrench and tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross (star) pattern. If you've just installed new wheels, re-torque the lug nuts after 50 to 100 miles of driving.

Common tire issues for this vehicle

1. Uneven Front Tire Wear (Cupping/Feathering): The Sierra 1500's independent front suspension is sensitive to alignment issues. Failing ball joints or worn shocks can cause cupping. Regular rotations (every 5,000 to 7,500 miles) and annual alignments are crucial.
2. TPMS Sensor Failures: The 315 MHz TPMS sensors on the 2016 models are reaching the end of their internal battery life (which typically lasts 7–10 years). If your dash shows a flashing tire pressure light that eventually stays solid, a dead sensor battery is the likely culprit.
3. Spare Tire Rot: Because the spare tire is mounted underneath the bed, it is exposed to road salt, dirt, and moisture. The winch mechanism can also seize. Drop the spare once a year, check its air pressure, and lubricate the hoist cable.

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