2018 Toyota Tundra Tire Size & Pressure Specs

Quick Answer

• OEM Tire Size: P255/70R18, LT275/65R18, P275/55R20
• Recommended Cold Tire Pressure (Door Placard):
  • P-Metric (standard load): 30-33 PSI (front/rear)
  • LT-Metric (light truck): 35-42 PSI (front/rear) – check your specific door placard as this can vary significantly with payload.
• Bolt Pattern: 5x150mm
• Wheel Size: 18x8J, 20x8J
• Load Index/Speed Rating: Varies by tire, common ratings include 113T for P-metric and 123R for LT-metric.
• Spare Tire Size: Matches one of the OEM sizes, typically a full-size spare.
• TPMS Frequency: 315 MHz

Tire Sizes by Trim

• Note: Wheel offset typically ranges from +50mm to +60mm for OEM Tundra wheels, but can vary. Always verify with your specific wheel or vehicle specifications.

Recommended Replacement Tires

Considering the diverse needs of Tundra owners, from daily driving to heavy hauling and off-road adventures, here are some popular replacement tire options:

• Michelin Defender LTX M/S (Premium Tier): An excellent all-season highway tire known for its long tread life, quiet ride, and strong wet and dry traction. Ideal for Tundra owners who primarily drive on paved roads and value comfort and durability.

• BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 (Premium/Mid-Range Tier): A legendary all-terrain tire that offers exceptional off-road performance without sacrificing too much on-road comfort. Perfect for Tundra owners who frequently venture off the beaten path but still need good manners on the highway.

• Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure with Kevlar (Mid-Range Tier): A versatile all-terrain tire offering good traction in various conditions, including light snow, and enhanced durability thanks to its Kevlar-reinforced sidewalls. A solid choice for a balanced on and off-road experience.

• Nitto Ridge Grappler (Mid-Range Tier): A hybrid terrain tire that bridges the gap between traditional all-terrain and mud-terrain tires. It provides aggressive looks and capable off-road performance while maintaining surprisingly good road manners and a relatively quiet ride. Popular among those seeking an aggressive look with good all-around performance.

• Falken Wildpeak A/T3W (Value/Mid-Range Tier): A highly-regarded all-terrain tire known for its excellent wet and snow performance, as well as its robust off-road capabilities. It offers great value and strong performance for a variety of driving conditions.

When to Inflate to Max Load PSI

For 2018 Toyota Tundra models equipped with LT (Light Truck) tires, understanding when and why to inflate to max load PSI is crucial for safety and tire longevity, especially when towing or hauling heavy loads.

LT tires have a "max load" pressure rating listed on their sidewall (e.g., "Max. Press. 80 PSI"). This pressure is designed to carry the tire's maximum rated load capacity.

• Only inflate to max load PSI when you are carrying or towing near the maximum payload or towing capacity of your Tundra. This ensures the tires can safely support the increased weight, prevents excessive sidewall flex, and reduces heat buildup.

• Do NOT inflate to max load PSI for everyday driving when the truck is unloaded or lightly loaded. Doing so will result in a harsh ride, premature tire wear in the center of the tread, reduced traction, and potentially compromised braking performance. For unloaded driving with LT tires, refer to your truck's door placard for the recommended cold tire pressure, which is typically lower than the max load PSI.

• Always adjust tire pressure when the tires are cold. Significant temperature changes or driving can alter tire pressure readings.

• Always cross-reference with your vehicle's door placard for the most accurate tire pressure recommendations based on your specific Tundra configuration and intended use.

Lug Nut Torque & Pattern

The 2018 Toyota Tundra uses a 5x150mm bolt pattern.

Lug Nut Torque: The recommended lug nut torque for the 2018 Toyota Tundra is 97 ft-lbs (131 Nm).

• It is crucial to use a torque wrench to tighten lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications. Overtightening can stretch studs and damage wheels, while undertightening can lead to loose wheels.
• Always tighten lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even seating of the wheel against the hub.

Common Tire Issues for This Vehicle

While the Toyota Tundra is a robust truck, certain tire-related issues can arise:

• Uneven Tire Wear: This can be caused by improper tire pressure (under or overinflation), misaligned suspension, worn suspension components, or aggressive driving habits. Regular tire rotations and alignments are key to preventing this.
• Vibrations at Speed: Often attributed to unbalanced tires, but can also stem from bent wheels, tire defects, or suspension issues. If you experience vibrations, have your tires balanced and inspected.
• Hydroplaning: Aggressive tread patterns on some truck tires can be less effective at evacuating water compared to street-focused tires. Worn tires also increase the risk. Ensure adequate tread depth for wet weather safety.
• TPMS Malfunctions: While generally reliable, TPMS sensors can occasionally fail due to battery depletion (typically after 5-7 years) or physical damage. If your TPMS light illuminates, have the system checked by a qualified technician.

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