What size tires go on a Ford F-250?
There isn’t a single tire size for every Ford F-250; the correct size depends on the year, trim level, wheel package, and whether the truck is stock or has aftermarket modifications. In practice, factory tires typically fall roughly between 245/75R17 and 275/65R20, with common configurations using 275/65R18 or 275/70R18 depending on options.
Understanding exactly which size applies to your truck requires checking the official specifications for your exact vehicle. Ford ships the F-250 with several wheel and tire configurations across generations; an owner’s manual or the door jamb placard provides the precise size, plus the recommended load and speed ratings. If your truck is lifted or equipped with non-stock wheels, you may be running a larger or smaller tire than stock, which can affect speedometer accuracy and payload performance.
Common factory tire sizes by wheel diameter
Below are the general tire-size ranges most commonly seen on Ford F-250s, grouped by wheel diameter. Use these as a reference, but always confirm with the placard or official documentation for your specific vehicle.
- 17-inch wheels: typically around 245/75R17 or 265/70R17 (these are common on base and mid-level trims).
- 18-inch wheels: commonly 275/65R18 or 275/70R18 (frequently chosen for several trims with 18-inch rims).
- 20-inch wheels: often 275/60R20 or 275/65R20 (common on higher trims or aftermarket upgrades with factory 20-inch wheels).
These are general ranges and may not match every F-250 configuration. Always start with the door-jamb placard or the owner's manual to confirm the exact stock tire size for your vehicle.
How to verify your exact tire size
To determine the precise size for your Ford F-250, verify with official sources or the vehicle physically:
- Check the driver-side door jamb placard that lists the original tire size, recommended cold tire pressure, and wheel size.
- Consult the owner's manual or a Ford dealer's service sheet for your specific model year and trim.
- Look at the sidewall of the tires themselves for the size code (e.g., P245/75R17, LT275/65R18).
- If the vehicle has aftermarket wheels or a lift, measure the overall diameter and compare to stock to ensure proper clearance and speedometer accuracy.
When in doubt, speak with a Ford dealership or a tire professional who can confirm the OEM size for your exact build and advise on safe aftermarket options if you’re changing wheel sizes.
Considerations when choosing tires or changing sizes
Choosing tires isn’t just about width and diameter; payload, speed rating, and fitment must be considered, especially for a heavy-duty pickup like the F-250. Consider the following:
- Ensure the overall tire diameter does not significantly alter speedometer readings or gearing; aim to stay within a few percent of the original diameter when changing sizes.
- Respect load and speed ratings suitable for your vehicle’s payload, towing, and regional speeds.
- Check for clearance with suspension components, fenders, and brake calipers, especially on lifted or leveled trucks.
- Be mindful of warranty implications and potential changes to gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) interpretation when using non-stock sizes.
In summary, the Ford F-250 uses multiple tire sizes depending on year, trim, and wheel choice. To ensure proper fitment and performance, verify the exact size from your door placard or owner's manual, especially before purchasing or rotating tires.
Summary
The exact tire size for a Ford F-250 depends on year, trim, and wheel package. Common stock ranges include 245/75R17, 265/70R17, 275/65R18, 275/70R18, 275/60R20, and similar configurations. Always confirm with the door placard or owner’s manual, and consider how lifts or aftermarket wheels may affect diameter, clearance, and speedometer accuracy. If you’re unsure, consult a Ford dealer or tire professional for the correct OEM size for your specific truck.
