2021 Toyota Tundra — Tire Size & Pressure

Quick answer

• OEM Tire Size: 255/70R18, 275/65R18, 275/55R20
• Recommended Cold Tire Pressure: 33 psi (Front and Rear)
• Bolt Pattern: 5x150mm
• Wheel Size: 18x8" or 20x8"
• Load Index/Speed Rating: 113S, 117S, 117T
• Spare Tire Size: 255/70R18 or 275/65R18 (full-size spare)
• TPMS Frequency: 315 MHz

Tire sizes by trim

Trim	OEM Tire Size	Wheel Size
SR	255/70R18	18x8"
SR5	255/70R18	18x8"
Limited	275/65R18	18x8"
Platinum	275/55R20	20x8"
1794 Edition	275/55R20	20x8"
TRD Pro	275/65R18	18x8" (BBS Forged)

Recommended replacement tires

When it's time for new tires on your 2021 Toyota Tundra, you have a wide array of excellent options. Here are a few popular choices across different price tiers, known for their performance and durability for a full-size pickup.

Premium Options

• BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2: (Approx. $250-350 per tire) A legendary all-terrain tire, the KO2 offers exceptional off-road traction, impressive durability, and a surprisingly comfortable ride on paved roads. It's a favorite for Tundra owners who venture off the beaten path or frequently tow/haul.
• Michelin Defender LTX M/S: (Approx. $220-320 per tire) For those prioritizing highway comfort, longevity, and all-season performance, the Defender LTX M/S is a top contender. It provides excellent wet and dry traction, a quiet ride, and an impressive tread life warranty.

Mid-Range Options

• Falken Wildpeak A/T3W: (Approx. $180-280 per tire) The Wildpeak A/T3W has gained a strong reputation for balancing aggressive off-road capability with commendable on-road manners. It’s an excellent all-around tire for Tundra owners looking for versatility without breaking the bank.

Budget-Friendly Options

• General Grabber HTS60: (Approx. $150-240 per tire) A solid choice for daily driving and light hauling, the Grabber HTS60 offers good all-season traction, a comfortable ride, and reliable performance at a competitive price point. It's a great value for Tundra owners who primarily drive on paved roads.

When to inflate to max load psi

The 2021 Toyota Tundra is a capable full-size pickup truck, and while it might not be considered a "Heavy Duty" (HD) truck in the same class as a 2500/3500 series, proper tire inflation is still crucial, especially when towing or hauling heavy loads.

Your door placard will always provide the recommended cold tire inflation pressure for normal driving conditions. However, when you are consistently carrying or towing near the maximum payload or towing capacity of your Tundra, you may want to increase tire pressure closer to the maximum allowable pressure stamped on the tire's sidewall. This helps maintain tire integrity, reduce heat buildup, and improve vehicle stability under heavy loads. Never exceed the maximum pressure listed on the tire sidewall.

Consult your Tundra's owner's manual for specific recommendations regarding tire pressure adjustments for heavy loads. Always check tire pressure when the tires are cold (driven less than a mile).

Lug nut torque & pattern

The lug nuts on your 2021 Toyota Tundra should be torqued to 97 ft-lbs (131 Nm). Always use a torque wrench to ensure proper and even tightening. Unevenly torqued lug nuts can lead to rotor warping or, in severe cases, the wheel coming loose.

Tightening Pattern: When installing a wheel, always tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern. This ensures the wheel is seated evenly against the hub. For your Tundra's 5-lug bolt pattern, this means tightening one lug nut, then skipping two and tightening the next, and so on, until all are snug. Then go back and apply the final torque in the same star pattern.

Common tire issues for this vehicle

The 2021 Toyota Tundra is generally a very reliable truck, but like any vehicle, it can experience some common tire-related issues:

• Uneven Tire Wear: This is often a symptom of improper tire inflation, poor alignment, or worn suspension components. Regularly inspect your tires for unusual wear patterns (e.g., feathering, cupping, or wear on only one side of the tread). Proper rotation every 5,000-7,500 miles and regular alignment checks can mitigate this.
• TPMS Sensor Issues: The TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) sensors on the 2021 Tundra operate at 315 MHz. While generally reliable, sensors can occasionally fail due to battery depletion (they typically last 5-10 years), damage during tire changes, or simply malfunction. A warning light on your dash indicates a fault. Replacement sensors will need to be programmed to your vehicle.
• Vibrations at Highway Speeds: This can often be attributed to unbalanced tires or a bent wheel. If you notice vibrations, especially after hitting a pothole or having new tires installed, have your wheels and tires inspected and balanced by a professional.
• Hydroplaning: While not specific to the Tundra, any vehicle with worn tire tread is susceptible to hydroplaning in wet conditions. Ensure your tires have adequate tread depth. Most states consider 2/32" as the legal minimum, but it's wise to replace tires sooner for optimal wet-weather performance.

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