2012–2019 U502 (5th generation)
2012–2019 Ford Explorer Tire Sizes, Pressure and Bolt Pattern
Every one of 3 factory tire sizes fitted to the 2012–2019 Ford Explorer, by trim and wheel diameter, with recommended cold pressures. Bolt pattern 5x114.3. Lug nuts torque to 100 lb-ft.
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2012–2019 Ford Explorer factory tire sizes
High confidence| Trim / wheels | Tire size | Pressure (F/R) | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base, XLT (18-in) | 245/60R18 | 35 psi | 104H |
| XLT (optional), Limited (20-in) | 255/50R20 | 35 psi | 104T/104H |
| Sport, Platinum (20-in) | 265/45R20 | 35 psi | 104V |
2012–2019 Ford Explorer bolt pattern and lug nut torque
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Bolt pattern (PCD) | 5x114.3 |
| Lug nut torque | 100 lb-ft |
| Spare tire | Compact temporary spare under the cargo floor (most trims) |
Tighten in a star pattern with a torque wrench, then re-check after roughly 50 miles. Wheels seat as they are driven. An impact gun routinely overshoots the figure above by 100 lb-ft or more, which warps rotors and stretches studs.
Which Ford Explorer model years does this cover?
These tire sizes specifications apply to every Ford Explorer built from 2012 through 2019 — the U502 (5th generation), mid-size 3-row crossover suv (unibody, fwd/awd). Nothing in this specification changes between those model years. Pick your year for the engines it offered, what changed that year, and the problems recorded against it.
What changed during the 2012–2019 Ford Explorer
- 20122.0L EcoBoost joins as an FWD-only economy option (no tow package)
- 2013Explorer Sport added: 365-hp 3.5L EcoBoost, AWD, 352mm brakes, 20-in wheels
- 2014Essentially unchanged: a few new exterior colors added; Limited trim gains standard heated second-row seats
- 2015Essentially unchanged: Limited trim adds an available adaptive cruise control option, with second-row heated seats offered as an option lineup-wide
- 2016Major facelift: new front/rear styling, 280-hp 2.3L EcoBoost replaces the 2.0L, Platinum trim (3.5L EcoBoost) added, SYNC 3 arrives mid-cycle; low-beam bulb changes to H11
- 2018–2019Minor updates; carryover mechanicals in the final years before the RWD-platform redesign
2012–2019 Ford Explorer tire sizes: common questions
What size tires does a 2012–2019 Ford Explorer take?
- It varies by trim and wheel size, 3 factory fitments exist, from 245/60R18 up. Check the placard on the driver's door jamb for the size your specific vehicle left the factory with.
What is the bolt pattern on a 2012–2019 Ford Explorer?
- 5x114.3. That is the figure you need when shopping for aftermarket wheels; centre bore and offset still have to match separately.
What should the tire pressure be on a 2012–2019 Ford Explorer?
- 35 PSI front and rear, measured cold. The number moulded into the tire sidewall is the tire's maximum, not the vehicle's recommendation. Do not inflate to it.
What is the lug nut torque for a 2012–2019 Ford Explorer?
- 100 lb-ft, tightened in a star pattern with a torque wrench. Impact guns routinely overshoot this by 100 lb-ft or more, which warps rotors and stretches studs.
Does the 2012–2019 Ford Explorer come with a spare tire?
- Compact temporary spare under the cargo floor (most trims).
Sources
- Ford. What is the recommended engine oil for my vehicle? (oil/filter lookup)
- NHTSA EA17-002 ODI resume, Explorer exhaust odor engineering analysis
- NHTSA recall 21V-537 (Ford 21S32), rear suspension toe link
- NHTSA recall 24V-031 (Ford 24S02), A-pillar trim detachment
- Ford Authority / CarComplaints, 3.5L water pump class action dismissed after settlement
- Ford.com parts, Motorcraft BXT-65-850 Group 65 battery fitment
- Ford.com parts, Motorcraft SP-546 spark plug (gap 0.045)
- Ford.com parts, Motorcraft FP-70 cabin air filter (CV6Z-19N619-A)
- fueleconomy.gov, 2013 and 2017 Ford Explorer EPA ratings
- WiperBladesUSA, 2016 Explorer wiper sizes 26/22/11