What size tires are on a 1988 Chevy Silverado?
The tire size on a 1988 Chevy Silverado isn’t fixed to a single measurement; most 15-inch wheel configurations used either P235/75R15 or P255/75R15, but the exact size depends on the drivetrain, axle, and option packages. To be sure, check the door placard on the driver’s side jam or the original owner’s manual.
In more detail, 1988 Silverados were built with variations in wheel size and tire width based on trim levels, whether the truck was 2WD or 4WD, and any optional wheels or tires installed by the manufacturer or dealer. The OE specification is the authoritative reference for your specific truck, and it can differ even within the same model year due to factory options and axle configurations. This article provides a general guide and steps to confirm your exact size.
Common stock tire sizes by drivetrain
Below is a breakdown of sizes you’re most likely to encounter on a stock 1988 Silverado, depending on whether the truck used 2WD or 4WD and came with 15-inch wheels.
Two-wheel drive (2WD) Silverados
- P235/75R15
- P255/75R15
Many 2WD examples with 15-inch wheels used these sizes, with the exact choice depending on the axles and option group installed at the factory or by the dealer. If you’re restoring or replacing tires for a period-correct look, these are the sizes to consider first.
Four-wheel drive (4WD) Silverados
- P235/75R15
- P255/75R15
4WD configurations that stayed with 15-inch wheels commonly used the same 235/75R15 or 255/75R15 family, though some later-era or specialty configurations might have differed based on wheel width and available upgrades. Always verify against the original specification for your exact truck.
How to verify your exact tire size
Use these steps to confirm the precise OE size for your 1988 Silverado, especially if you’re buying replacements or restoring the truck to stock condition.
- Inspect the driver’s door jamb placard for the recommended tire size(s) and cold inflation pressures.
- Read the sidewall on your current tires for the size code (e.g., P235/75R15) to see what your vehicle is currently using.
- Check the original owner’s manual or build sheet for the factory tire specification tied to your VIN.
- If wheels have been swapped, ensure any new size remains compatible with the truck’s load rating and clearance; when in doubt, consult a tire professional.
These references—the placard, tire sidewalls, and the owner's manual—provide the most reliable confirmation of the correct size for your specific 1988 Silverado.
Summary
Across 1988 Silverado models, the stock tire size was not universal. The most common sizes on 15-inch wheels were P235/75R15 and P255/75R15, with the exact size varying by drivetrain and options. For accuracy, always verify with the door placard or the original documentation, and use the OE size as your baseline when replacing tires or restoring the vehicle. Confirming the correct size helps maintain performance, handling, and speedometer accuracy.
