What size tire can I fit on a stock F-150?
A stock Ford F-150 can typically accommodate tires up to about 33 inches in overall diameter with the factory suspension and wheel sizes. Going larger usually requires an aftermarket leveling kit or a suspension lift, and may require trimming or careful fitting to avoid rubbing.
The exact fit depends on your truck’s model year, trim, and wheel diameter. Check the door jamb tire placard and the owner's manual for your specific recommended tire size and any maximum tire diameter, then compare it to common aftermarket sizes to determine what works for you.
Know your stock setup
Before choosing tires, confirm the official recommendations and observe clearance. The factory door sticker lists the recommended tire size for your vehicle and often notes the maximum tire diameter allowed for the factory wheel. The wheel diameter (17, 18, 20, or 22 inches) also determines the ceiling for tire height and how much, if any, rubbing you might encounter during turning, under compression, or at full articulation.
The wheel size you currently have largely determines how tall a tire you can safely run. The following guide gives a practical snapshot for common factory wheel sizes found on many F-150s.
- 17-inch wheels: Typical OEM tires include around 265/70R17, which are about 31.5–31.8 inches in diameter. With a 33-inch tire (for example, 33x10.5R17), you may fit with some rubbing prevention measures, especially on older models or when not using a leveling kit.
- 18-inch wheels: Common sizes include 275/65R18 (about 33 inches in diameter). This size often fits with the stock suspension, but some trims may rub at full steering lock; a modest leveling kit can improve clearance if you plan to run 33-inch tires).
- 20-inch wheels: Popular OEM sizes include 275/55R20 or 275/60R20 (roughly 32–33 inches). A 33-inch tire is frequently feasible with stock suspension, though rubbing on the fender liner or control arms can occur—leveling or slight trimming may help in some years.
- 22-inch wheels: Common sizes are around 275/45R22 (~32.8 inches). Larger diameters are less common with the stock suspension; 33-inch tires are possible on some builds but have higher risk of rubbing, and may require careful selection of tire width and offset, plus potential fender work or a lift.
In short, many F-150s can run up to about 33 inches in overall diameter with stock suspension and the right wheel size, but exact fit varies by year, trim, and wheel choice. Always verify against your door jamb placard and consult a tire professional if you’re considering sizes near the upper limit.
Upgrading for larger tires
If you want to go bigger than the typical ceiling for a stock setup, here are common options and their implications.
- Install a leveling kit or a small suspension lift (usually 1–3 inches). This increases clearance between the tire and the fender, allowing 33–34 inch tires on many trucks with the right wheel size.
- Choose tires with compatible width and aspect ratio to maintain proper clearance. For example, a 33x12.5R17 or 33x12.5R18 often pairs with leveling kits; ensure the wheel width and offset match the tire footprint to avoid rubbing.
- Consider aftermarket wheels with appropriate offset or spacers to reduce rubbing on control arms and springs. Be mindful of added stresses on suspension and steering components and check warranty terms.
- Plan for alignment and steering geometry changes; recalibrate the speedometer if you change tire diameter (some vehicles auto-adjust, others require a programmer).
- Expect trade-offs: ride comfort, fuel economy, potential warranty considerations, and increased wear on drivetrain components if tires are significantly larger than stock.
Note: Changing wheel size or tire diameter can affect speedometer accuracy, ABS/traction control behavior, and ride quality. Consult a qualified shop to ensure proper fitment and alignment, and verify any warranty implications with Ford or your dealer.
Summary
For a stock F-150, you can typically fit up to about 33 inches in overall tire diameter on most factory wheel sizes (17–20 inches) without modifications. Larger tires generally require a leveling kit or a suspension lift, and may necessitate trimming, spacers, or wheel offset adjustments. Always start by checking your door jamb placard and owner's manual, then consult a tire and wheel professional to confirm a safe, legal fit for your specific year, trim, and wheel combination. Plan for potential speedometer recalibration and alignment when increasing tire size.
