What size tires will fit a Chevy Colorado?

There isn’t a single universal tire size for the Chevy Colorado. The correct size depends on the model year, trim level, and the wheel size originally equipped from the factory. Most Colorado models use 16- to 18-inch wheels with overall tire diameters roughly in the 30–33 inch range. The high-performance off-road ZR2 variant uses even larger tires, typically around 33 inches tall (315/70R17). Always verify with the door placard and the owner's manual for your exact year and trim.

Understanding tire sizes for the Colorado

The size that fits your Colorado is determined by a combination of year, trim, and the wheels installed. Below are representative examples by common wheel diameters to give a sense of typical options you may encounter.

Stock sizes by wheel diameter

The following sizes illustrate common factory or widely used options for each wheel diameter. Your exact size may differ based on trim and production year; always confirm with the vehicle’s placard or manual.

• 16-inch wheels: commonly seen sizes include P235/75R16 or P235/70R16 depending on the trim and year.


• 17-inch wheels: commonly seen sizes include P265/65R17 or P275/65R17.


• 18-inch wheels: commonly seen sizes include P265/60R18 or P275/60R18.


• ZR2 off-road variant: typically uses 315/70R17 (about 33 inches tall) on 17-inch wheels.

In practice, the exact size on your pickup is tied to the original equipment listed on the door placard and in the owner’s manual. If you’re unsure, use those sources or talk to a GM-certified shop for confirmation.

Upgrading tires: what you should know

If you’re considering a tire upgrade beyond stock sizes, there are several fitment and performance factors to keep in mind. The Colorado’s clearance, gearing, and suspension affect what sizes will fit without rubbing or requiring adjustments.

Key fit considerations

• Clearance and rubbing: larger tires can rub fenders or control arms at full steering lock or when the suspension compresses—especially on stock suspension without leveling.


• Wheel width and offset: the wheel width and offset (backspacing) must be compatible with the tire width to avoid rubbing and to maintain proper steering geometry.


• Suspension leveling or lifting: many owners add a leveling kit or small lift to accommodate larger tires; this changes geometry and may affect ride quality and warranty.


• Speedometer and gearing: bigger tires increase effective final drive ratio, which can throw off speedometer accuracy and shift points; recalibration or a programmer may be needed for accurate readings.


• Load rating and tread type: choose tires with adequate load index for payload and use-case (all-terrain, highway, or mud-terrain) to match your Colorado’s usage.

Upgrading tires is feasible for most Colorado models, but it should be planned with attention to clearance, drivetrain load, and potential changes in speedometer accuracy. Consult a tire professional to verify fitment for your specific year, trim, and wheel combination.

How to verify the exact size for your year and trim

To ensure you buy the correct tires for your Colorado, follow these steps to confirm the exact size for your vehicle.

1. Locate the tire placard on the driver’s door jamb; it lists the original tire size, recommended inflation pressures, and load ratings.


2. Consult the owner’s manual or GM’s official Tire Size Guide for your specific year and trim to confirm the factory spec.


3. If upgrading, measure your current wheel diameter and width, and check for rubbing when turning and during suspension travel.


4. Ask a reputable tire shop or your local dealer to verify clearance and calibrate the speedometer if you change tire dimensions.

Following these steps will help ensure you choose a tire size that fits safely and maintains proper vehicle performance.

Summary

The Chevy Colorado does not have one universal tire size. The correct size depends on year, trim, and wheel size, with common factory options spanning 16–18 inch wheels and tire diameters roughly in the 30–33 inch range. The ZR2 variant uses larger 33-inch-tall tires (315/70R17). Always verify the exact size on your vehicle’s door placard or owner’s manual, and consult a tire professional when upgrading to ensure proper fitment and performance.

How many tire sizes can I go up?

For most passenger vehicles, you should aim to increase tire diameter by no more than 3% of the original size to avoid issues with handling, fuel economy, and speedometer accuracy. However, larger increases, sometimes up to 15% for trucks and SUVs, may be possible with a lift kit and other modifications, which requires careful research on specific vehicle fitment. 
For most cars

• Follow the 3% rule: A general guideline is to keep the new tire's total diameter within 3% of your original tires' diameter. 
• Understand the impact: An increase larger than 3% can negatively affect performance, handling, and fuel economy. 
• Check clearance: Ensure the new tires will not rub against the vehicle's body or suspension components, especially when turning. 

For trucks and SUVs

• Lift kits enable larger tires: A lift kit provides the necessary clearance to install significantly larger tires, with some vehicles accommodating up to a 15% size increase. 
• Research specific models: The maximum size varies greatly by make and model, so it's crucial to research what your specific truck or SUV can handle. 
• Consider components: Upsizing tires may require other related upgrades, such as a lift kit or leveling kit. 

Before you make a change

• Check your owner's manual: Your owner's manual or the sticker on the driver's side doorjamb will list the original recommended tire sizes. 
• Use an online calculator: Many online tire size calculators can help you compare old and new sizes to see the expected changes in diameter and speedometer error. 
• Consult a professional: A tire specialist can help you explore options and determine if any other modifications are necessary for a safe and proper fit. 

What size tires can I put on my Chevy Colorado?

The current generation Colorado from 2023-2025 utilizes tire sizes from 17 inch up to 22 inch, depending on the truck's trim level.

What year to stay away from Chevy Colorado?

The Chevy Colorado years to avoid are primarily the 2004-2006 first-generation models and the 2014-2019 second-generation models due to common issues like transmission problems, engine misfires, and power steering loss. The 2015 model is often cited as the worst year due to widespread transmission and power steering failures. Other years with notable complaints include 2017 for electronics and 2018 for transmission shuddering. 
This video discusses the worst Chevy Colorado years to avoid, focusing on the 2015 model's transmission and steering issues: 1mEveryman DriverYouTube · Dec 23, 2019
Problematic generations and years 

• First Generation (2004-2006):
  • 2004-2006: Early years are prone to engine misfires and worn-out valve seats. 
• Second Generation (2014-2019):
  • 2015: This is frequently called out as the worst year due to numerous complaints about the transmission and a high number of power steering system failures. 
  • 2017: Issues with the display screen freezing and phone pairing problems are frequently reported. 
  • 2018: Transmission shuddering and other transmission-related problems were common. 
  • 2014-2019: This period saw many transmission and engine issues, as well as problems with power steering and the HVAC system. 
• Other years:
  • 2004-2012: These years can have problems with the A/C blower motor and fuel level sensors. 

You can watch this video to learn about potential problems with different generations of the Chevy Colorado: 56sTech TriumphYouTube · Apr 14, 2025
Common issues by category

• Transmission: Shuddering, sluggish shifting, and premature failure were common, particularly in the 2015-2019 models. 
• Engine: Misfires and worn-out valve seats were reported in the 2004-2009 and 2016 models. 
• Steering: A significant number of 2015 models experienced power steering loss, which is a major safety concern. 
• Electronics: The 2017 model is known for issues like freezing display screens and problems with phone pairing. 
• HVAC: Malfunctioning A/C blowers were a complaint in the 2004-2010 and 2012 model years. 

What wheels fit a Chevy Colorado?

Chevy Colorado Wheel FAQs
The Chevy Colorado has a range of stock rim sizes, including 15-inch rims, 16-inch rims, 17-inch rims and 18-inch rims, depending on the year model and trim level of your pickup.