How Big Of Tires Can You Put On A Stock Ford Expedition?
How Big of Tires Can You Put on a Stock Ford Expedition? When it comes to upgrading your vehicle’s tires, the Ford Expedition offers plenty of possibilities. With its robust build and versatile design, many drivers wonder just how big of tires they can fit on a stock Ford Expedition. In this guide, we’ll explore the factors that determine tire size compatibility, considerations for upgrading, and popular options for maximizing performance and style.
The exact maximum tire size that will fit on a stock Ford Expedition varies depending on the specific model year and trim level. However, a common maximum tire size for many Ford Expeditions without any modifications to the suspension or wheel wells is approximately 33 inches in diameter. This typically translates to tire sizes ranging from 265/70R17 to 285/45R22. It’s important to check your vehicle’s owner’s manual or consult with a tire professional to ensure you choose the appropriate tire size.
Popular Tire Upgrades
While sticking close to your vehicle’s stock tire size is generally recommended, there is still room for customization within those parameters. Here are some popular tire upgrades for the Ford Expedition.
- Plus Sizing. Wheel diameter alteration entails enlarging the size of the wheel while compensating to maintain the overall diameter of the tire. This is often achieved by fitting larger wheels with lower profile tires. For instance, transitioning from 17-inch wheels to 20-inch ones with corresponding low-profile tires not only enhances the visual appeal of the vehicle. But also offers improvements in handling characteristics. Despite the perceptible change in aesthetics and handling, this modification typically preserves the original vehicle dynamics. Ensuring a balanced and controlled driving experience.
All-Terrain Tires.
If you’re seeking to amplify your vehicle’s off-road prowess, consider equipping it with all-terrain tires. Which provide a harmonious blend of on-road comfort and off-road performance. Renowned brands such as BFGoodrich, Goodyear, and Michelin boast an extensive array of tire sizes, catering to the diverse needs of vehicles like the Expedition.
- Lift Kits. Pairing larger tires with a lift kit can offer numerous benefits beyond just aesthetic appeal. By increasing the size of your tires and raising your vehicle’s suspension, you not only gain additional clearance for navigating rough terrain but also achieve a more commanding presence on the road. This combination allows for smoother off-road adventures and enhances traction, particularly in challenging conditions. However, it’s crucial to emphasize the importance of having Lift Kits installed by experienced professionals. Their expertise ensures proper compatibility with your vehicle’s specifications and guarantees safety. Preventing potential issues such as drivetrain stress or compromised handling. Therefore, while the allure of a lifted vehicle is undeniable, prioritizing professional installation ensures both optimal performance and peace of mind for your off-road excursions.
Ultimately, the ideal tire size for your Ford Expedition depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize off-road capability, on-road comfort, or a bold aesthetic, there are tire options available to suit your requirements. However, it’s crucial to approach tire upgrades with careful consideration and, when in doubt, consult with a trusted mechanic or tire specialist to ensure compatibility and safety.
Factors to Consider
The Ford Expedition comes from the factory with specific tire sizes tailored to its suspension, clearance, and overall design. Straying too far from these recommended sizes can lead to performance issues, rubbing, or even damage to your vehicle.
Clearance
One of the main factors to consider when selecting tires for a vehicle is the available space within the wheel well. This space, also known as clearance, is crucial because if the tires are too large, they may come into contact with the wheel well or other suspension components. Insufficient clearance can lead to tire wear, damage to the tire and vehicle, and potentially unsafe driving conditions. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that the tire size chosen is compatible with the space constraints of your vehicle’s wheel well to avoid such issues.
Suspension
Upgrading to significantly larger tires can have a considerable impact on your vehicle’s suspension geometry, which in turn may affect various aspects of your vehicle’s performance, including handling and ride quality. When you install larger tires, the added weight and altered dimensions can change how the suspension components interact with each other and the road. This modification can lead to changes in the vehicle’s center of gravity, and the increased tire diameter can affect the gearing ratios and wheel speed sensors, potentially causing inaccuracies in the vehicle’s speedometer and odometer readings.
Speedometer Accuracy
Altering the size of your vehicle’s tires can significantly impact the accuracy of your speedometer and odometer. This is because these devices are calibrated based on the circumference of the factory-installed tires, which determines how far the car travels with each rotation of the wheels. When you change the tire size, the circumference changes. For instance, larger tires cover more ground per rotation, which can cause the speedometer to read slower than your actual speed. Conversely, smaller tires result in a higher speed reading than your true speed.
Legal Considerations
When considering modifications to your vehicle’s tire size, it’s crucial to first check the local regulations that govern these changes. Different jurisdictions can have specific rules about how much the size of the tires can deviate from the manufacturer’s original specifications. These regulations are in place to ensure safety on the roads, as altering tire size can affect the vehicle’s handling, speedometer accuracy, and overall safety. The allowable variations can differ significantly from one area to another, and failing to adhere to these regulations can result in penalties, fines, or even voiding your vehicle’s warranty. Additionally, improper tire sizes can lead to increased wear and tear on the vehicle’s suspension and other components. Therefore, before you decide to alter your tire size, make sure to thoroughly research and comply with the laws in your specific area to avoid any legal or safety issues.
Warranty Coverage
If you modify your Expedition, there’s a risk that the warranty on those components could be voided. For instance, if larger tires lead to premature wear on the suspension or brakes, Ford might argue that the modifications caused the issue and thus may not cover the repairs under warranty. It’s always a good idea to consult with professionals before making significant changes like upsizing tires. When upgrading your tires, it’s important to consider all of the factors involved. Especially your Ford factory warranty or your Ford Factory Extended Warranty, you wouldn’t want to make any decisions that could potentially void your warranty.
