What size tires are on a 1993 Ford Explorer?

The typical stock tire size for a 1993 Ford Explorer is P235/75R15 mounted on 15-inch wheels. This size was common across most trims, though exact sizing can vary by wheel package or optional equipment.

In this article, we break down the standard sizes you’re likely to encounter, explain how to confirm the exact size on your own vehicle, and offer guidance on replacement choices and upgrades.

Common stock tire size for 1993 Explorer

Before listing the size, note that the most widely used original equipment specification for 1993 Explorers was the following single-size setup across many trims.

• P235/75R15 — standard on 1993 Explorers with 15-inch wheels (the common configuration for base XL and XLT trims).

Conclusion: If your Explorer has the standard 15-inch wheel package, P235/75R15 is typically the correct replacement size.

How to verify your exact size

Before the verification steps, understand that there were occasional variations due to wheel options or special packages, so it’s best to confirm on your specific vehicle.

• Check the tire sidewall for the size printed in the format P235/75R15 on each tire.


• Look at the driver’s door jamb placard for the original equipment size and recommended tire pressure.


• Consult the owner’s manual or dealer records if you suspect a non-standard wheel package was installed.

Conclusion: The door placard and the tire sidewalls are the most reliable sources to confirm your exact size before purchasing replacements.

Notes for replacements and upgrades

When replacing tires or considering upgrades, keep in mind that changes in wheel size or aspect ratio can affect ground clearance, handling, and speedometer accuracy. If you plan to move to larger wheels or alter tire height, ensure the overall diameter stays within acceptable limits to maintain proper performance and odometer readings.

Practical tips for choosing tires

- Match load and speed ratings to your driving needs and local conditions.

- Maintain correct tire pressure per the placard for optimal wear and fuel economy.

- If you go with non-OEM sizes, consider a professional alignment and potential reprogramming for speedometer accuracy.

Summary: For the 1993 Ford Explorer, the most common original tire size is P235/75R15 on 15-inch wheels. Always verify your exact size via the door placard or tire sidewalls, especially if your SUV has a non-standard wheel package or aftermarket components. This ensures safe, reliable replacement and helps preserve driving performance.

What year to stay away from Ford Explorer?

You should generally stay away from 2002–2006 Ford Explorers due to widespread transmission failures and other issues like engine and suspension problems. Other years with significant problems include 2016, with a large recall involving faulty fuel tanks and suspension components, and 2020, which had many recalls and customer complaints.
 
2002–2006 models 

• These models are widely considered the least reliable, with a major reputation for transmission failures that can be very expensive to fix. 
• Owners also reported engine problems (like timing chain and head gasket issues), suspension wear, and electrical malfunctions. 

Other years to approach with caution

• 2016: This year had a recall involving faulty suspension components and a fuel tank. 
• 2020: This model year had a high number of recalls and complaints, including issues with the transmission, power loss, and a potential rollaway defect. 
• 2008: This model year is also listed by some sources as a year to avoid due to low owner satisfaction scores and recalls. 

What is my factory tire size?

The original tire size for your car can be found on a sticker located on the driver's side door jamb. You can also check the owner's manual, the fuel filler door, the glove box, or the sidewall of your current tire to find this information.
 

• Driver's side door jamb: This is the most common location for the vehicle's tire information placard, which lists the correct original equipment (OE) tire size and recommended inflation pressure. 
• Owner's manual: The owner's manual contains details about your car's specifications, including the original tire size. 
• Other locations: Less common but still possible places to find the information include the inside of the gas tank hatch, the glove box, or the center console door. 
• Tire sidewall: The sidewall of the tire itself also has the size printed on it. However, if the previous owner changed the tires, the current ones may not be the original size, so the door jamb or owner's manual is a more reliable source for the OE size. 

How much is a 1993 Ford Explorer worth?

The value of a 1993 Ford Explorer varies significantly, with average retail prices around $2,250 and low retail around $1,450, according to J.D. Power. However, high-condition or classic models can command much higher prices, with some examples on auction sites selling for between $4,700 and $7,900, and even one rare, low-mileage example selling for $15,000. Condition, mileage, trim level, and 4WD are key factors determining the final price. 
Factors that influence value

• Condition: A vehicle in excellent, original condition with low mileage will be worth significantly more than one in poor condition. 
• Mileage: Lower mileage is a major factor in higher value. 
• Trim Level: Trims like the XLT, Eddie Bauer, or Sport can be more desirable than the base XL model. 
• Drivetrain: Four-wheel drive (4WD) models are often more valuable. 
• Originality: Vehicles with original parts and features are often more valuable to collectors. 

Price ranges

• Average Retail: Approximately $2,250
• Low Retail: Approximately $1,450
• High-End/Classic Models: Prices can range from $4,700 to over $15,000, depending on condition and rarity. 

Where to find value information

• J.D. Power: Provides an average retail value of $2,250 and a low retail of $1,450 for a 1993 Ford Explorer 4-door utility. 
• Edmunds: Lists a value range of $1,163 to $5,880. 
• CLASSIC.COM: Shows prices for models that sold at auction, with some examples fetching $4,700 to $7,900 and even a rare one for $15,000. 
• Kelley Blue Book: Provides a current resale value of around $1,114 and a trade-in value of $378 for a 4-door model. 

What is the standard tire size for a Ford Explorer?

The stock tire size for a Ford Explorer varies by model year and trim level, but common sizes include 245/65R17, 245/60R18, 255/65R18, 255/55R20, and 275/45R21. The most accurate way to find your specific tire size is to check the sticker on the driver's side door jamb or the sidewall of a current tire. 
Common stock tire sizes by model year and trim

• Base/XLT: Typically come with 18-inch wheels, with common sizes being 255/65R18 or 255/55R20 depending on the year. 
• Limited/King Ranch: Often equipped with 255/55R20 tires, sometimes with other options available. 
• Platinum/ST: Usually come with larger, performance-oriented tires, such as 275/45R21. 
• Timberline: Features an all-terrain tire, such as P265/65R18. 

How to find your exact tire size

• Check the driver's side door jamb: A sticker on the door jamb of your vehicle lists the manufacturer's recommended tire size and pressure.
• Inspect the current tires: The size is also printed on the sidewall of your vehicle's current tires.