Published by Rims & Tires
Compiled & checked by the site's publisher from manufacturer, NHTSA & USTMA data · Updated 2026-07-17
The Ford Explorer is one of the best-selling three-row SUVs in America. It serves a wide range of buyers — from daily family transportation to the performance-focused ST and the Timberline with off-road hardware. The right tire depends on your trim and priorities.
Common Ford Explorer tire sizes
6th gen Explorer (2020-2024): 255/65R18 (Base, XLT), 255/55R20 (XLT, Limited, ST, Platinum), 275/45R21 (ST, Platinum), 265/65R18 (Timberline). The 2025 refresh renamed the trims but kept the same sizes: Active (255/65R18 or 255/55R20), ST-Line and Platinum (255/55R20 or 275/45R21), ST (275/45R21).
5th gen Explorer (2011-2019): 245/60R18 (Base, XLT), 255/50R20 (XLT, Limited, Platinum, Sport).
The Timberline (2021-2024 — dropped in the 2025 refresh) uses 265/65R18, a larger, more all-terrain-capable size that reflects its off-road positioning.
Best tires — standard Explorer
Michelin CrossClimate2: the top recommendation for family Explorer owners. Available in 255/65R18 and 255/55R20, excellent all-season performance, quiet ride for three-row family use, 3PMSF winter capability.
Continental CrossContact LX25: excellent wet weather performance and fuel efficiency — good for families maximizing daily economy in the Explorer.
Bridgestone Turanza QuietTrack: the quietest option for Explorer owners who prioritize cabin comfort over all-weather grip. Available in main Explorer sizes.
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Best tires — Explorer Timberline
The Timberline uses 265/65R18 and includes a seven-mode Terrain Management System and standard AWD with off-road-tuned suspension. It deserves a tire that matches its capability.
Falken Wildpeak AT3W in 265/65R18: the most popular Timberline upgrade. Better off-road grip than the OEM all-season, 3PMSF winter rating, and only marginally louder on the highway.
BF Goodrich KO2 in 265/65R18: maximum A/T capability for Timberline owners who use the SUV's off-road features actively.
Best tires — Explorer ST
The ST uses 275/45R21 — a large, low-profile size that prioritizes handling over compliance. Continental ExtremeContact DWS06+ is the top pick: excellent wet and dry performance, available in 275/45R21, and balanced enough for daily driving.
Michelin CrossClimate2 is available in 275/45R21 as well and offers better all-weather capability at a slight dry grip trade-off.
Best Ford Explorer tires by trim
| Trim | Tire | Best For | Price (per tire) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard (255/65R18, 255/55R20) | Michelin CrossClimate2 | Excellent all-season performance, quiet ride for three-row family use, 3PMSF capability | $120–180 |
| Standard (255/65R18, 255/55R20) | Continental CrossContact LX25 | Excellent wet-weather performance and fuel efficiency | $120–180 |
| Standard (255/65R18, 255/55R20) | Bridgestone Turanza QuietTrack | Quietest option for cabin comfort | $120–180 |
| Timberline (265/65R18) | Falken Wildpeak AT3W | Better off-road grip than the OEM all-season, 3PMSF rating, only marginally louder on the highway | $180–250 |
| Timberline (265/65R18) | BF Goodrich KO2 | Maximum A/T capability for owners who actively use the off-road features | $180–250 |
| ST (275/45R21) | Continental ExtremeContact DWS06+ | Excellent wet and dry performance, balanced enough for daily driving | $180–250 |
| ST (275/45R21) | Michelin CrossClimate2 | Better all-weather capability at a slight dry-grip trade-off | $180–250 |
Frequently asked
How much do Ford Explorer tires cost?
Common Explorer sizes (255/65R18, 255/55R20) run $120–180 per tire for quality all-season options. Larger sizes (275/45R21, 265/65R18) run $180–250 per tire. A set of four installed: $500–900 for most trim levels.
Do Ford Explorer tires affect AWD performance?
Yes — tread depth balance across all four tires matters for the Explorer's AWD system. Most Explorer owners can replace tires in pairs (front or rear axle together) without issues, provided tread depth differences stay within 2/32" across all four.
Can I put all-terrain tires on a regular Explorer?
The standard Explorer is not designed with the suspension travel or ground clearance of the Timberline. All-terrain tires are available in standard Explorer sizes and would provide better capability on unpaved roads, but the vehicle's on-road tuning means you would gain off-road grip at the cost of highway noise and ride quality.
Where can I find Explorer tires in West Georgia?
Common Explorer sizes are well-stocked at most tire shops in Carroll, Douglas, and Paulding counties. The 21-inch Platinum and ST sizes may need to be ordered at smaller shops. Get a free quote and we will match you to the right shop.
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Last updated 2026-07-17. General guidance only — confirm specifics with a local shop for your exact vehicle.