What is the 2017 Ford Explorer Tire Size?
The standard tire size for most 2017 Ford Explorer models is P245/65R17. However, specific trims and optional packages may utilize different wheel and tire dimensions for enhanced performance or aesthetics. Understanding your exact configuration is key to selecting the correct replacement tires.
- Standard 2017 Ford Explorer tire size is P245/65R17.
- Sport and Platinum trims often feature larger wheel sizes.
- Always check your vehicle's tire placard for precise fitment.
- Load index and speed rating are crucial alongside size.
When it comes to maintaining your 2017 Ford Explorer, ensuring you have the correct tire size is paramount for safety, handling, and fuel efficiency. The P245/65R17 designation is the most common fitment, appearing on base models and many mid-range trims. This sizing provides a balanced approach to comfort and road performance.
However, not all 2017 Explorers roll off the assembly line with the same wheel and tire package. Higher trim levels, such as the Sport and Platinum, often come equipped with larger diameter wheels, typically 20 inches, which necessitates a different tire profile to maintain similar overall tire diameter. For instance, a common size for these trims might be P265/45R20. This mechanism is critical for managing ride quality and achieving the desired aesthetic.
You must never rely solely on general information when purchasing new tires. The primary consideration involves verifying the exact tire size recommended for your specific vehicle. This is because optional wheel upgrades or specific factory packages can alter the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) tire specifications. Such precision is paramount for optimal vehicle dynamics.
Always verify the tire size on your vehicle's driver-side door jamb placard.
Decoding Tire Size Markings and Variations
Have you ever wondered what those numbers and letters on your tire sidewall actually mean? Decoding them is fundamental to understanding tire specifications and making informed purchase decisions. The standard P245/65R17 for the 2017 Explorer breaks down into specific technical information.
Understanding Tire Size Numbers
Let's break down the common P245/65R17 size:
- P: Indicates the tire is designed for passenger vehicles.
- 245: This is the tire's width in millimeters, measured from sidewall to sidewall.
- 65: This is the aspect ratio, representing the tire's sidewall height as a percentage of its width. In this case, the sidewall height is 65% of 245mm.
- R: Denotes that the tire has a Radial construction, which is standard for modern vehicles.
- 17: This is the diameter of the wheel rim in inches that the tire is designed to fit.
This mechanism is critical for ensuring the tire properly seats on the rim and maintains structural integrity. Our analysis indicates that variations in aspect ratio (the '65') significantly affect ride comfort and handling characteristics.
Beyond the base P245/65R17, some 2017 Explorer models might offer different tire sizes as options or on higher trims. For example, you might encounter P255/55R20 or P265/45R20 for vehicles equipped with 20-inch wheels. It is imperative to acknowledge that these larger diameter wheels often come with lower profile tires, meaning a smaller aspect ratio, to maintain a similar overall tire diameter and prevent speedometer inaccuracies. Understanding this principle is fundamental.
The placard on your driver's side doorjamb is the definitive source for your vehicle's recommended tire size, load index, and speed rating.
Ensuring Proper Fitment and Performance
Selecting the correct tire size for your 2017 Ford Explorer isn't just about fitting the wheel; it's about optimizing your vehicle's performance, safety, and longevity. Incorrect sizes can lead to a host of problems, from inaccurate speedometer readings to compromised handling and increased wear.
Why Tire Size Matters
- Speedometer Accuracy: Tires with a significantly different overall diameter than the OEM specification will cause your speedometer and odometer to read incorrectly.
- Handling and Stability: The suspension and steering systems are calibrated for specific tire dimensions. Deviating can negatively impact handling and stability, especially during cornering or emergency maneuvers.
- Load Capacity: Every tire has a load index, indicating the maximum weight it can safely support. Using tires with an insufficient load index is a serious safety hazard.
- Fuel Economy: Overly wide or improperly inflated tires can increase rolling resistance, negatively affecting your fuel efficiency.
This might seem like a lot, but the core principle is straightforward: stick to what the manufacturer recommends. While some enthusiasts explore minor deviations for aesthetic or performance reasons, it's a path fraught with potential issues if not done with expert knowledge, similar to how one might research a 5th gen 4runner tire size for off-road modifications.
Measure your existing tire's overall diameter and compare it to the recommended size if you suspect a non-standard fitment. A difference of more than 1-2% can cause significant issues.
The correct tire size is a foundational element for your vehicle's safety and dynamics.
When searching for replacements, always reference the tire placard located on the driver's side doorjamb. This sticker provides the OEM-recommended tire size, load index, and speed rating. If your Explorer has been modified with aftermarket wheels, it's crucial to confirm the tire size compatibility with the new wheel diameter and offset. For example, if you're contemplating fitting larger wheels, you'll need to find a tire size, like the P265/45R20 mentioned earlier, that maintains a similar overall diameter to your original tires.
Never compromise on the load index and speed rating specified for your 2017 Ford Explorer.