2015 Ford Explorer Tire Size – Finding The Perfect Fit For Every Trim
The 2015 Ford Explorer typically uses three main tire sizes: 245/65R17, 245/60R18, or 255/50R20, depending on your specific trim level. Selecting the correct dimensions is vital for maintaining speedometer accuracy, handling stability, and ensuring your suspension components don’t experience premature wear.
Choosing the right rubber for your SUV can feel like navigating a maze of numbers and technical jargon. Whether you are a daily commuter or a weekend trail seeker, understanding your 2015 ford explorer tire size is the first step toward a safer ride. In this guide, we will break down every factory specification and help you choose the best upgrade for your driving style.
We will look at the differences between the Base, XLT, Limited, and Sport trims to ensure you get the exact fitment you need. From load ratings to off-road upsizing, this comprehensive walkthrough provides the professional insight you need to make an informed purchase. Let’s get your Explorer back on the road with the confidence it deserves.
Factory Specifications by Trim Level
The 2015 Ford Explorer came in several distinct trim levels, each designed with a specific wheel and tire combination. Ford engineers tuned the suspension of each trim to match these specific diameters and widths.
If you own the Base or XLT trim, your vehicle likely rolled off the assembly line with 17-inch or 18-inch wheels. The 17-inch wheels typically use a 245/65R17 tire, providing a taller sidewall that absorbs road imperfections more effectively.
The Limited and Sport trims, however, move up to a 20-inch wheel for a more aggressive look and sharper handling. These models utilize the 255/50R20 size, which offers a wider contact patch for better grip during spirited driving or towing.
- Base Trim: 245/65R17 or 245/60R18
- XLT Trim: 245/60R18 or 255/50R20 (Optional)
- Limited Trim: 255/50R20
- Sport Trim: 255/50R20
Always verify your specific setup by checking the tire information placard located on the driver-side door jamb. This sticker is the “source of truth” for your vehicle’s original equipment and recommended inflation pressures.
Decoding the 2015 ford explorer tire size Numbers
To the untrained eye, tire numbers look like a secret code, but they are actually a standardized metric system. Understanding these figures helps you compare different brands and styles without getting lost in the technicalities.
Take the popular 245/60R18 size as an example. The first number, 245, represents the width of the tire in millimeters from sidewall to sidewall. A wider tire generally offers more traction but can slightly decrease fuel efficiency due to increased rolling resistance.
The second number, 60, is the aspect ratio, which indicates that the sidewall height is 60% of the tire’s width. A higher aspect ratio means a “taller” tire, which usually results in a softer, more cushioned ride on rough pavement.
Finally, the R18 indicates the tire is of radial construction and fits an 18-inch diameter wheel. Mixing rim sizes is impossible, so you must ensure the last number matches your current wheels exactly unless you plan on buying a whole new wheel set.
Load Index and Speed Ratings
Beyond the physical dimensions, you must pay attention to the service description, which consists of a number and a letter (e.g., 107V). This tells you how much weight the tire can safely support and its maximum rated speed.
For a heavy vehicle like the Explorer, a load index of 103 to 107 is common. Never install a tire with a lower load index than what the manufacturer recommends, as this can lead to catastrophic tire failure under heavy loads or during towing.
Selecting the Right 2015 ford explorer tire size for Off-Roading
If you enjoy taking your Explorer onto fire roads or light trails, the factory highway-terrain tires might not cut it. Many owners look to upgrade to All-Terrain (A/T) tires to gain better traction in mud, gravel, and snow.
When choosing a 2015 ford explorer tire size for off-road use, some enthusiasts consider “upsizing” to a slightly larger diameter. While a larger tire looks great, it can cause rubbing against the inner fender liner or suspension components during tight turns.
A common “safe” upgrade for those with 18-inch wheels is moving to a 265/60R18. This adds a bit of width and height without requiring a lift kit, though you should always test for clearance at full steering lock.
Keep in mind that the 2015 Explorer is a unibody vehicle with independent rear suspension. Unlike older body-on-frame SUVs, it has less “room to grow” in the wheel wells, so precision is key when deviating from stock sizes.
Recommended Off-Road Tire Models
For those sticking to the stock 18-inch or 20-inch sizes, tires like the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 or the Falken Wildpeak A/T3W are excellent choices. They offer rugged sidewalls that resist punctures from sharp rocks and debris.
If you have the 20-inch wheels, your off-road options are slightly more limited due to the lower sidewall profile. In this case, look for “Trail-Terrain” tires that balance off-road capability with quiet highway manners.
The Impact of Tire Size on Performance and Safety
Changing your tire size isn’t just an aesthetic choice; it directly impacts how your Ford Explorer interacts with the road. The vehicle’s computer systems, including the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Traction Control, are calibrated for specific tire diameters.
If you install tires that are significantly taller or shorter than the factory 2015 ford explorer tire size, your speedometer will display an incorrect speed. A taller tire will result in the speedometer reading slower than your actual speed, which could lead to unexpected speeding tickets.
Furthermore, larger tires increase the unsprung weight of the vehicle. This puts more stress on the brake rotors and pads, as they have to work harder to stop the heavier rotating mass of the larger wheels and tires.
From a safety perspective, maintaining the correct tire width ensures that the hydroplaning resistance remains as designed. Tires that are too wide for the rim can cause “crowning,” where the center of the tread wears out faster and reduces wet-weather grip.
Fuel Economy Considerations
Heavy, oversized tires will almost always result in a drop in miles per gallon (MPG). The engine has to work harder to get the larger mass moving from a stop, and the increased wind resistance of a wider tire adds up over long highway trips.
If fuel efficiency is your priority, stick to the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) sizes and look for tires labeled with “Low Rolling Resistance” technology. These are specifically designed to glide more easily over the asphalt.
Proper Maintenance for Your 2015 Ford Explorer Tires
Once you have selected the perfect 2015 ford explorer tire size and had them mounted, the work doesn’t stop there. Regular maintenance is the only way to ensure you get the full 50,000 to 70,000 miles out of your investment.
Tire rotation is perhaps the most critical task for an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) or Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) Explorer. You should rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles to ensure even wear across all four corners.
On AWD models, uneven tire wear can actually damage the transfer case or “Power Take-Off” (PTU) unit. If the tires have different diameters due to uneven wear, the computer thinks the wheels are slipping, causing unnecessary heat and strain on the drivetrain.
- Check Pressure Monthly: Use a high-quality digital gauge to ensure tires are at the PSI listed on your door jamb (usually 35 PSI).
- Inspect Tread Depth: Use the “penny test.” If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, it is time for new tires.
- Alignment: Get an alignment check every time you buy new tires or if you notice the steering wheel pulling to one side.
Don’t forget the spare tire! The 2015 Explorer usually comes with a “space-saver” temporary spare. Check its pressure annually, as these small tires often require much higher PSI (around 60 PSI) to function safely.
DIY Tire Changing: Tools and Safety Steps
If you find yourself with a flat or want to swap your seasonal wheels yourself, having the right tools makes the job safer and easier. You don’t need a full shop, but a few key items are non-negotiable.
You will need a 19mm or 3/4-inch socket for the lug nuts. I highly recommend using a dedicated breaker bar rather than the flimsy wrench included in the trunk. A torque wrench is also essential for the final tightening phase.
When jacking up the vehicle, always use the designated jack points on the frame rail. Never place a jack under the floorboards or suspension arms, as this can cause expensive structural damage or result in the vehicle falling.
Pro Tip: Always loosen the lug nuts about half a turn while the tire is still on the ground. This prevents the wheel from spinning while you try to break the nuts loose once the vehicle is in the air.
- Safety First: Work on a flat, level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Chock the Wheels: Place a block of wood or a brick behind the tire opposite the one you are changing.
- Torque Specs: Tighten the lug nuts in a “star pattern” to 100 lb-ft (135 Nm) to ensure the wheel sits flush against the hub.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2015 ford explorer tire size
Can I put 20-inch wheels on an Explorer that came with 18-inch wheels?
Yes, you can upgrade to 20-inch wheels as long as you use the factory 255/50R20 tire size. Since this was an OEM option, the wheel wells are designed to accommodate this diameter without any modifications.
What is the best tire pressure for a 2015 Ford Explorer?
Most 2015 Explorers require 35 PSI (pounds per square inch) in all four tires. However, you should always check the sticker on your driver’s door pillar, as towing or heavy loads may require different pressures.
Will 265/60R18 tires fit without a lift kit?
In most cases, yes. The 265/60R18 is slightly wider and taller than the stock 245/60R18. While it usually fits without rubbing, every tire brand has slightly different actual dimensions, so a “test fit” is recommended.
Do I need to replace all four tires at once on an AWD Explorer?
Ideally, yes. For AWD systems, it is important that all four tires have the same tread depth (within 2/32 of an inch). Significant differences in tire diameter can put excessive strain on the intelligent 4WD system and the PTU.
Summary and Final Thoughts
Navigating the world of tires doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By sticking to the recommended 2015 ford explorer tire size for your specific trim, you ensure that your vehicle remains safe, efficient, and comfortable for years to come.
Whether you choose the 17-inch comfort of the Base trim or the 20-inch performance of the Sport, always prioritize quality brands and regular maintenance. Remember to check your air pressure monthly and rotate those tires every time you change your oil.
Investing in the right set of tires is the single best way to improve your Ford Explorer’s ride quality and safety. Take the time to research the best tread pattern for your local climate, stay on top of your rotations, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a well-maintained vehicle. Stay safe and stay comfortable on the road!
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