2017 Ford F150 Tire Size – Selecting The Right Rubber For Your Truck
The 2017 Ford F-150 accommodates a variety of tire sizes depending on your specific trim level and wheel diameter, typically ranging from 17-inch to 22-inch options. Choosing the correct size is critical for maintaining accurate speedometer readings, proper suspension geometry, and optimal fuel efficiency for your vehicle.
Are you looking to upgrade your truck’s stance or simply need a fresh set of rubber for your daily commute? Navigating the world of truck tires can feel overwhelming with so many ply ratings, tread patterns, and sidewall measurements to consider.
You need a setup that balances your aesthetic goals with the practical realities of towing, hauling, or hitting the trails. This guide breaks down exactly what you need to know about the 2017 ford f150 tire size options so you can make an informed decision for your specific build.
We’ll cover how to decode your current tire specs, the impact of going larger, and the safety steps you shouldn’t skip. Let’s get your F-150 equipped with the right gear for the road ahead.
Understanding Your Factory 2017 ford f150 tire size
Before you start browsing aggressive mud-terrain tires, you need to know your baseline. Ford engineered the 2017 F-150 to handle specific load requirements, and deviating too far from these specs can impact your transmission shift points and braking performance.
The easiest way to find your factory 2017 ford f150 tire size is to check the sticker located on the driver-side door jamb. This placard lists the original equipment tire dimensions, recommended cold tire pressure, and the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) for your specific truck.
Decoding Tire Sidewall Markings
Tire sidewalls are packed with information that often looks like a foreign language. For example, a common factory size might read something like 275/55R20.
- 275: The width of the tire in millimeters.
- 55: The aspect ratio, meaning the sidewall height is 55% of the width.
- R: Radial construction, which is standard for almost all modern truck tires.
- 20: The diameter of the wheel in inches.
The Impact of Changing Tire Diameter
Many owners want to install larger tires for a more aggressive look or better ground clearance. While a taller tire can improve your off-road capability, it introduces several mechanical variables you must manage.
Speedometer and Odometer Calibration
When you increase the overall diameter of your tires, you change the number of rotations the wheel makes per mile. This causes your 2017 ford f150 tire size to report incorrect data to your truck’s computer.
Your speedometer will read slower than your actual speed, and your odometer will log fewer miles than you are actually traveling. You can correct this using an aftermarket programmer or tuner to update the tire size settings in the truck’s ECU.
Suspension Clearance and Rubbing
Installing tires that are too large without a lift or leveling kit often leads to rubbing. This usually happens at the crash bars, the inner fender liners, or the frame rails during a full-lock turn.
Always measure the available clearance at your wheel wells before committing to a new set. If you are planning to go significantly larger than the stock 2017 ford f150 tire size, consider installing a 2-inch leveling kit to avoid body damage.
Choosing the Right Tire Type for Your Needs
Your choice of tread pattern should be dictated by your primary driving environment. Using the wrong tire type can lead to premature wear or poor traction in critical situations.
All-Season vs. All-Terrain Tires
If your F-150 stays mostly on paved roads and highways, an All-Season tire is your best bet. They offer a quieter ride, longer tread life, and better fuel economy.
For those who frequent gravel roads, job sites, or weekend trails, an All-Terrain (A/T) tire is a superior choice. These tires feature deeper treads and reinforced sidewalls to resist punctures from rocks and debris.
Mud-Terrain and Hybrid Options
Mud-Terrain (M/T) tires are designed for serious off-roading. They provide incredible grip in loose dirt and deep mud, but they are significantly louder on the highway and will decrease your fuel efficiency.
A great middle-ground is the hybrid-terrain tire. These offer an aggressive look and better off-road bite than a standard A/T, without the excessive road noise and vibration of a dedicated mud tire.
Safety Checks and Maintenance Tips
Once you have installed your new tires, maintenance is the key to longevity. A set of high-quality tires can easily last 50,000 miles if they are treated correctly.
Rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. This ensures even tread wear across all four corners, especially since the front tires handle steering forces and the rear tires handle the engine’s torque.
Check your tire pressure at least once a month. Under-inflated tires generate excessive heat, which is the leading cause of tire failure. Use a high-quality digital tire pressure gauge rather than relying on the gas station air pump’s built-in meter.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2017 ford f150 tire size
Can I fit 35-inch tires on a stock 2017 F-150?
Generally, no. You will likely experience significant rubbing on the crash bars and fender liners. Most owners find that a 2-inch or 2.5-inch leveling kit is required to fit 35-inch tires comfortably without modification.
How does changing tire size affect my towing capacity?
Larger, heavier tires increase the unsprung weight of your truck, which can make it feel more sluggish when towing. Additionally, if you go to a much larger tire without re-gearing your differentials, you may notice the transmission hunting for gears more often under load.
What is the biggest tire I can run without a lift kit?
For most 2017 F-150s, a 33-inch tire (like a 275/60R20 or similar) is typically the maximum size you can run without experiencing rubbing. However, this can vary slightly depending on the offset of your aftermarket wheels.
Should I upgrade my spare tire if I change my tire size?
If you increase your tire size, it is highly recommended to upgrade your spare. If you suffer a flat while off-road, a stock-sized spare will cause issues with your truck’s limited-slip differential and traction control system due to the difference in rotational speed.
Selecting the right tires for your F-150 is a balance between performance, aesthetics, and your budget. Take the time to measure your current setup, consider your actual driving habits, and always account for the mechanical changes that come with larger wheels.
If you aren’t comfortable with the installation or the calibration process, don’t hesitate to visit a local tire shop or a qualified mechanic. Investing in the right setup now will save you from headaches and potential damage down the road. Stay safe and enjoy the ride!
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