Best Ford Explorer Tires
One of the most handsome and versatile utility vehicles on the market, the Explorer offers something for everyone from the eco-friendly hybrid model to the high-performance ST.
If the tires on your vehicle are starting to wear out, we’ve assembled a list of the best Ford Explorer tires based on capability and performance, as well as tread life and price. We’ve also chosen a few of the best winter tire options to check out, some budget-focused choices and some high-performance selections too. See the full list below.
Ford Explorer Tire Sizes
Below are the different trim levels offered on the Ford Explorer as well as the tire size options available for each.
- Base 255/65/18
- Hybrid 255/55/20
- Limited 255/55/20
- Platinum 255/55/20 or 275/45/21
- ST 255/55/20
- ST High Performance Package 275/45/21
- ST Street Package 275/45/21
- XLT 255/65/18 or 255/55/20
Best Ford Explorer Tires
20-inch Sizes
Bridgestone Dueler HL Alenza Plus
We’ve selected five of our top picks for the Explorer starting with the Bridgestone Dueler HL Alenza Plus. With solid all-weather capability and a fantastic highway ride, the tread pattern is optimized for minimum noise. Handling performance is excellent and it comes with an 80,000 mile warranty. Pricing, while on the expensive side, is actually quite reasonable for what this tire offers.
Michelin Defender LTX MS
Next up is the Michelin Defender LTX MS, one of the best tires for larger SUVs you can buy. It’s not quite as engaging to drive and gives up some grip in dry weather performance to its rivals, but only so that it can offer more grip in the winter. There’s heavy siping allowing this tire to grip better in snow and really push the limits of what an all-season tire is.
Cooper Discoverer SRX
Next up we have the Cooper Discoverer SRX. In many ways similar to the Michelin, it’s not quite as impressive, but it’s also not quite as expensive.
Continental Terrain Contact HT
For those looking for a slight edge in off-road grip, the Continental Terrain Contact HT offers just that. While far from being an all-terrain tire, it does deliver more off-road capability than a conventional all-season, wile still being quite refined on the road.
Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season Plus II
And finally, for those looking for a bit more sport from their tire, we’d recommend the Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season Plus II. It will deliver a more dynamic drive, though with a slightly lower tread life. For those looking for even more performance, we’ve included a few higher-performance options below.
Longest Lasting Tire for Ford Explorer
Best All-Terrain Tire for Ford Explorer
Best Budget Tire for Ford Explorer
Best High Performance Summer Tire for Ford Explorer
Best High Performance All-Season Tire for Ford Explorer
Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4
Cheapest Tire for Ford Explorer
Best Winter Tires for Ford Explorer
What Tires Come on the Ford Explorer?
Explorer models come with a selection of four different tires from the factory depending on their wheel size. Explorer models running 18-inch wheels come exclusively with the Hankook Kinergy GT tires. Models with 20-inch rims come with either the Michelin Primacy AS or the self-sealing version of that tire. And finally, models with the 21-inch wheels come with the Pirelli Scorpion Zero All Season tire.
How long do Ford Explorer Tires Last?
Based on the specific tires equipped on each model, tread life varies but should be between 50,000 and 70,000 miles. The Michelin Primacy AS tires fitted to many models come with a 55,000 mile tread life warranty from the factory, while Explorers with 18-inch tires get longer lasting Hankook Kinergy GT tires, rated for roughly 70,000 miles. Some models do come equipped with Pirellis, which don’t have a specific warranty. That said, don’t expect to get much more than 50,000 miles on a set – specially as these are generally fitted to the high-performance versions, like the Explorer ST.
Tire Buying FAQ
Where can I find the best price on tires?
There is no one answer to this question unfortunately. Sites like Tire Rack and Discount tire offer deals all the time on specific brands. You can also find deals on Amazon though they are much harder to find and often only apply to a specific size or group of sizes. Visit our Tire Deals page for more info.
When is the best time to buy tires?
It’s common that many shoppers buy tires once its already too late. At that point you don’t have a lot of choice and can often over-pay. If you’re planning ahead, generally, retailers offer significant tire deals around major holiday weekends (especially in the summer), as well as Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
How much is Shipping?
Shipping is often included when you purchase tires online. Many retailers offer free shipping if you get your tires shipped to an installer that they recommend. Even if you ship to your home, Tire Rack offers free shipping on purchases over $50. And if you’re buying new tires, that won’t be hard.
How long does shipping take?
Shipping can take just a few days, or over a week in the worst cases. Often it depends on where you live. anyone in a larger urban center or living closer to a tire distribution center can get them quite quickly.
Does anyone offer mobile tire installation?
Depending on where you live, there may be numerous local mobile tire installers available. If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of tracking one down, TireRack offers its own service. You don’t even have to purchase tires from TireRack to use it.
While it’s more expensive than bringing your tires to the shop, it’s also a lot more convenient. Prices start at $25 per tire.
How much does it cost to install a tire?
Generally you’ll pay between $25 and $50 per tire for installation services. This includes mounting and balancing, while using the latest tools so your rims don’t get scuffed or scraped.
Do I need to replace the tire pressure monitoring system when I change tires?
It’s not necessary to replace TMPS sensors when you change tires, but you may want to consider it. The units can fail over time due to damage or corrosion. Also, most units contain a battery and as a sealed unit, they must be replaced when the battery wears down. While most tire installers will handle sourcing these parts for you, you can also buy your own here.
Do online tire retailers offer rebates?
Absolutely! In fact, rebates are offered by most brands (even premium ones). Often these incentives are offered with other deals including up-front discounts and credit card offers.