What size tires are on a 1997 Ford Escort?
There isn't a single tire size that covers every 1997 Ford Escort—the correct size depends on the car’s trim level and market. In the United States, many base Escorts used 13-inch wheels with 185/70R13 tires, while higher trims and some export variants employed larger wheels and different tire specifications.
Common factory tire sizes by wheel size
The following sizes reflect typical factory configurations for 1997 Escorts in common markets. Exact size on your car may vary based on options and factory changes over the model year.
- 13-inch wheels: P185/70R13
- 14-inch wheels: P185/65R14 or P195/60R14
- 15-inch wheels: P195/50R15 or P195/60R15
If you're unsure about the exact size for your specific vehicle, verify with the door jamb placard or the owner's manual. Different configurations, including aftermarket wheels, can affect the recommended tire size.
How to verify the correct tire size for your 1997 Escort
Use these steps to confirm your car’s exact specification and ensure you select compatible tires.
- Locate the placard on the driver's door jamb that lists the recommended tire sizes (and load/c speed ratings).
- Consult the owner's manual for the factory-recommended tire size and inflation pressures.
- Inspect the sidewall of your current tires to read the size printed there (for example, 185/70R13).
- If your Escort has aftermarket wheels, verify the wheel size, offset, and overall tire diameter to maintain proper fit and accuracy.
- When in doubt, contact a Ford dealer or a reputable tire retailer with your vehicle’s VIN to confirm the exact factory specification for your model.
Having the correct size is essential for safe handling, optimal fuel economy, and accurate speedometer readings.
Summary
For a 1997 Ford Escort, tire sizes vary by trim and market, typically ranging from 13- to 15-inch wheels with sizes around 185/70R13, 185/65R14, 195/60R14, 195/50R15, or 195/60R15 depending on configuration. Always verify the exact specification on the door placard, in the owner's manual, or with a Ford dealer using your VIN to ensure proper fit and performance.
How much was a Ford Escort in 1997?
1997 Ford Escort Pricing
| Original MSRP | KBB Fair Purchase Price (national avg.) | |
|---|---|---|
| Sedan 4D | $12,225 | $1,371 |
| LX Sedan 4D | $12,975 | $1,506 |
| LX Wagon 4D | $13,630 | $1,750 |
What is my stock 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.
What size tires are on a Ford Escort?
The Ford Escort has several different tire sizes depending on the year and trim level, with common sizes including 175/65R14, 185/65R14, 195/60R15, and 185/60R14. To find the exact size for your specific vehicle, check the sidewall of your current tires or the sticker on the driver's side doorjamb.
Common Ford Escort tire sizes
- 175/65R14: Often found on base models or certain years like the 1997 Sport or 1995 LX.
- 185/65R14: A common size for many trims, including the 1997 LX and Sport, and models like the 2000 and 2002 ZX2.
- 195/60R15: A popular size, especially for models like the 1990 GT.
- 185/60R14: Another size option that can be found on different models.
- 195/65R15: A size that can be found on some models.
- 205/55R16: A less common size found on certain models.
- 175/70R13: An older size found on models like the 1990 Escort.
How to find the right tire size for your Escort
- Check the tire sidewall: The most accurate way is to look at the number molded into the rubber on the side of your current tires. The size will look something like "185/65R14185 / 65 cap R 14185/65𝑅14".
- Check the driver's side doorjamb: There is often a sticker inside the driver's door that lists the recommended tire size and pressure for your vehicle.
- Consult your owner's manual: Your car's manual will contain the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) tire size specifications.
What size tires are on a 1998 Ford Escort?
The 1998 Ford Escort tire size depends on the trim level. Most models, such as the LX and SE, use 185/65R14 tires, while the ZX2 models typically use 185/60R15 tires. Some ZX2 trims may also use 185/65R14 tires.
- For most models (LX, SE): 185/65R14185 / 65 cap R 14185/65𝑅14
- For ZX2 models (Cool Coupe, Hot Coupe): 185/60R15185 / 60 cap R 15185/60𝑅15 or 185/65R14185 / 65 cap R 14185/65𝑅14
