What size tires come on a factory Ford Escape?
The tire size that comes from the factory on a Ford Escape varies by model year and trim. In recent generations, most Escapes ship with 17-, 18-, or 19-inch wheels, and the exact tire specification is listed on the driver’s door placard and in the owner's manual.
Year, trim, and wheel combinations you might see
Ford offers multiple wheel sizes across Escape generations; the size is tied to the trim level and optional equipment. Here are the common groupings for recent Escapes:
- 17-inch wheels with tires around 235/65R17 or 235/60R17 (sizes vary by year and market).
- 18-inch wheels with tires around 235/60R18 or 235/55R18 (trim-dependent).
- 19-inch wheels with tires around 235/50R19 or 255/45R19 (available on higher trims and with certain packages).
Note: The exact tire size your vehicle came with depends on its build date and market, so always confirm using the placard or Ford’s official documentation.
How to determine your vehicle’s exact factory size
Use the following steps to verify the precise factory tire size for your Escape:
- Open the driver's door and read the tire placard for the "TIRE SIZE" specification, which lists the size and recommended cold inflation pressure.
- Check the sidewall of a current tire for the stamped size (for example, P235/65R17) if you want to confirm what’s installed.
- Refer to your owner's manual or the Ford VIN build sheet/online Ford owner portal to confirm the original equipment tire size for your model year and trim.
- If you’re shopping for replacements, ensure any new tire size matches the vehicle’s intended diameter to avoid speedometer and ABS issues.
Having the exact tire size will ensure compatibility and avoid issues with performance or clearance.
What to consider if you plan to change tire sizes
Going beyond the factory specification can affect ride quality, handling, fuel economy, and warranty. Consider these factors before changing sizes:
- Wheel width and offset compatibility with the new tire size.
- Change in overall diameter and its effect on speedometer accuracy and anti-lock braking system calibration.
- Potential impact on ground clearance and suspension geometry.
- Insurance and manufacturer warranty implications.
Consult a tire professional or Ford dealer to verify fitment before purchasing non-standard sizes.
Summary
In short, the factory tire size for a Ford Escape is not fixed; it depends on year, trim, and market. The safest way to know your exact size is to check the door placard, the sidewall, the owner's manual, or Ford’s official build documentation. When replacing tires, stick to the OEM size or consult a professional if considering alternatives.
Why is Ford discontinuing Escape?
Ford is discontinuing the Escape to make room for new, more affordable electric vehicles (EVs), such as a new $30,000 electric pickup truck. Production is ending because the Louisville Assembly Plant is being retooled to produce these new EVs, a move Ford is calling its "Model T Moment" to simplify and streamline EV manufacturing. The decision is also influenced by a company-wide shift in strategy towards electrification and away from certain gasoline-powered models.
- Focus on EVs: The discontinuation is part of a larger strategic shift at Ford to focus on building electric vehicles and away from gasoline-powered models, particularly two-row crossovers.
- Factory retooling: The Louisville Assembly Plant, where the Escape is built, will be retooled to produce a new family of EVs, starting with a mid-size electric pickup truck expected to launch around 2027.
- Cost and strategy: By phasing out the Escape and Lincoln Corsair, Ford can cut complexity and costs, freeing up resources for its electric division.
- Market factors: The Escape has also faced falling sales and tough competition in a crowded SUV market, with the Bronco Sport taking some of its market share.
What size tires are on a 2019 Ford Escape?
The 2019 Ford Escape tire size depends on the trim level, with common sizes being 235/55R17, 235/50R18, and 235/45R19. The specific size can vary between models, with the S and some SE trims using the 17-inch tires, while the SEL and Titanium trims typically have the 18-inch or 19-inch options. To find the exact size for your vehicle, check the sticker on the driver's side door jamb or the sidewall of your current tires.
| Trim | Tire Size |
|---|---|
| S | 235/55R17 |
| SE | 235/55R17 or 235/45R19 |
| SEL | 235/50R18 or 235/45R19 |
| Titanium | 235/45R19 |
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What year of Ford Escape to stay away from?
Years to avoid for the Ford Escape include the 2005, 2008, 2013, 2014, and 2020-2022 models due to a high number of complaints and recalls for serious issues like engine failure, transmission problems, and steering loss. Other problematic years often cited are 2016, 2017, 2021, 2022, and 2023.
This video explains why you should be careful when buying a used Ford Escape and which model years to avoid: 1mCar Lensy YouTube · Apr 23, 2025
Ford Escape years to avoid
- 2005: Prone to severe rust-related structural failures, leading to a risk of steering loss.
- 2008: High number of complaints for transmission and steering system issues.
- 2013 & 2014: Known for significant engine and transmission problems, with the 2013 model even seeing a risk of engine fires.
- 2016, 2017, and the 2020-2022 models: Have significant engine and transmission issues.
- 2020-2022: Suffer from engine and transmission problems, oil leaks, and infotainment glitches.
- 2021 & 2022: Mentioned as years to avoid, potentially due to continuing issues from the redesign generation.
General problems to watch for
- Engine issues: Overheating, coolant leaks, and engine failure are common complaints, particularly in 1.6L EcoBoost engines from 2013-2019.
- Transmission problems: High failure rates have been reported across several model years, including the 2008-2014 models.
- Steering and electrical issues: Some years have had problems with power steering loss or other electrical glitches.
- Structural problems: Rust, especially in the subframe, has been a significant issue on certain models.
What tires come standard on a Ford Escape?
The Ford Escape offers several tire size options:
- 225/65R17 (102H): This is typically the base tire size, often found on lower trim levels.
- 225/60R18 (100H): A mid-range option that balances performance and comfort.
- 225/55R19 (99H): Commonly seen on higher trim levels, offering a sportier look.
