What size tires can you fit on a stock Ford Ranger?
On a stock Ford Ranger, you can typically run tires in the vicinity of 29 to 32 inches in overall diameter, depending on wheel size and trim. Common factory setups include 16-inch wheels with around 235/75R16 or 255/70R16 tires and 17-inch wheels with about 265/65R17 tires. With minimal modifications, you can upsize to roughly one inch more in diameter (for example 265/65R17 or 275/65R17). To go larger, most owners add a leveling kit or a small lift, and might encounter rubbing or speedometer changes.
Stock tire sizes by wheel diameter
The following sizes reflect common configurations for recent Ranger models in the U.S. market. Exact OE sizes will vary by year, trim and wheel choice. Always check the door placard on your vehicle to confirm the stock size.
- 16-inch wheels: commonly around 235/75R16 or 255/70R16 (overall diameter roughly 29.3"–30.5").
- 17-inch wheels: commonly around 265/65R17 or 275/65R17 (roughly 31.0"–31.7" in diameter).
- 18-inch wheels: commonly around 265/60R18 or 275/65R18 (roughly 29.9"–32.0" in diameter).
Note: Exact OE sizes vary by year and trim. Always verify the stock size on your door placard or owner's manual and consider checking with Ford's official documentation for your specific build.
Upsizing without permanent modifications
Without permanent changes, you can typically go up by about one size in diameter on the same wheel, such as moving from 16" to 17" wheels with slightly taller tires, or choosing 275/65R17 on 17" rims, depending on clearance and rim width. Some Rangers also tolerate 32-inch class tires with careful setup, though rubbing can occur at full steering lock or compression.
- Common one-size-ups: 265/65R17 or 275/65R17 on 17" wheels; 255/70R16 on 16" wheels, if clearance allows.
- 32-inch class tires (32x10.5R17 or 275/70R17) may fit with a leveling kit or minor trimming, and typically require checking fender clearance.
These examples illustrate practical ranges, but the exact fit depends on your Ranger’s year, trim, wheel width, and offset. Always test-fit or consult a professional if you’re unsure.
What about larger tires with modifications?
To fit larger tires safely over the Ranger’s suspension, many owners add a modest suspension lift or a leveling kit, along with proper wheel offsets and sometimes trimming of inner fender liners or front bumper splash shields. Proper fitment also depends on wheel width and offset, as well as the tire's tread pattern and sidewall design.
Choosing the right combination
Key factors include the wheel diameter and width, the tire's overall diameter, the vehicle's suspension travel, and the desired use (on-road vs. off-road). For a balanced setup, aim for minimal changes to avoid affecting braking performance or steering feel.
Speedometer, gearing and warranty considerations
Any increase in tire diameter affects instrument accuracy and may impact fuel economy and acceleration. You may need to recalibrate the speedometer and, in some cases, the powertrain control modules. Also, check with your dealer or Ford's warranty terms, as improper tire changes can affect warranties or insurance in some scenarios.
Summary
In practice, a stock Ford Ranger supports a range of tire sizes tied to wheel choice. Expect stock diameters around 29–32 inches, with common factory sizes including roughly 235/75R16, 255/70R16, 265/65R17, and 275/65R17, depending on trim. Upsizing by one notch is usually feasible, while stepping to larger tires often requires leveling or a small lift, and careful attention to clearances and calibration. Always verify exact OE sizes on your vehicle and test-fit any new tires with the guidance of a professional if needed.
How big of tires can I put on a Ford Ranger?
The fifth and current generation Ranger from 2022-2025 utilizes tire sizes from 16 inches up to 20 inches, depending on trim level.
What is the biggest tire on a Ford Ranger without lift?
265/70r17 fit with no issues.
Will a 265 70R17 fit a Ford Ranger?
265/70R17 tyres were common factory fitments on vehicles such as the Toyota FJ Cruiser and Ford Ranger.
Will a 265 75r16 fit a Ford Ranger?
Yes, 265/75R16 tires will fit a Ford Ranger, but they may rub against the fender liner or suspension at full steering lock, especially on stock suspension. To prevent rubbing, minor modifications like trimming the liner or installing a leveling kit are often recommended, though many owners report they fit with minimal issues on certain models.
What to expect
- Minor rubbing: On many stock Rangers, these tires will fit but may rub slightly on the plastic fender liner when the wheel is turned all the way.
- Clearance: There is often around a half-inch of clearance at full lock, but this can vary.
- Potential for more rubbing: Rubbing can be more pronounced when the wheel is turned in reverse, and may cause more issues on certain 4x4 models or with aftermarket suspensions.
- Minor modifications may be needed: To prevent rubbing, a small amount of trimming of the fender liner or ziptieing it out of the way is often enough. A leveling kit can also provide more clearance.
Important considerations
- Check your specific model: The fit can depend on the year and suspension of your particular Ranger.
- Measure before buying: Compare the dimensions of the new tires to your current ones to ensure there is adequate clearance.
- Speedometer accuracy: Be aware that upsizing tires can affect speedometer accuracy. You may need to recalibrate it after changing sizes.
