2020–2025 U625 (6th generation)
2020–2025 Ford Explorer Tire Sizes, Pressure and Bolt Pattern
Every one of 4 factory tire sizes fitted to the 2020–2025 Ford Explorer, by trim and wheel diameter, with recommended cold pressures. Bolt pattern 5x114.3. Lug nuts torque to 100 lb-ft.
Last verified
Quick answer
The 2020–2025 Ford Explorer came with 4 factory tire sizes depending on trim, from 255/65R18 (Base, XLT, Active (18-in)) up. Check the table for your trim.
2020–2025 Ford Explorer factory tire sizes
High confidence| Trim / wheels | Tire size | Pressure (F/R) | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base, XLT, Active (18-in) | 255/65R18 | 33 psi | 111H |
| Limited, King Ranch, Platinum, ST-Line, ST (20-in) | 255/55R20 | 33 psi | 107H |
| ST with High-Performance/Street Pack, ST-Line 21-in option | 275/45R21 | 38 psi | N/A |
| Timberline (2021–2024, all-terrain) | 265/65R18 | 35 psi | N/A |
2020–2025 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; Timberline carries a full-size spare |
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 2020 through 2025 — the U625 (6th generation), mid-size 3-row suv (rwd-based cd6 platform, rwd/awd; 2025 refresh). 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 2020–2025 Ford Explorer
- 2020Generation launch on RWD-based CD6 platform; 10-speed automatic across the board; hybrid and 400-hp ST debut; rocky launch quality (see common problems)
- 2021King Ranch and off-road-flavored Timberline (265/65R18 ATs, full-size spare) added; Platinum keeps 365-hp 3.0L
- 2022ST-Line (ST looks, 2.3L) added; ST available RWD; 3.0L Platinum/King Ranch rated 400 hp
- 2024Carryover; final year for the 3.3L hybrid and King Ranch/Timberline/Limited trims
- 2025Major refresh: new fascias, new interior with 13.2-in SYNC 4A touchscreen, trims consolidated to Active/ST-Line/Platinum/ST; hybrid dropped; 2.3L switches to FL-2127 oil filter (~5.0 qt)
2020–2025 Ford Explorer tire sizes: common questions
What size tires does a 2020–2025 Ford Explorer take?
- It varies by trim and wheel size, 4 factory fitments exist, from 255/65R18 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 2020–2025 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 2020–2025 Ford Explorer?
- 33 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 2020–2025 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 2020–2025 Ford Explorer come with a spare tire?
- Compact temporary spare under the cargo floor; Timberline carries a full-size spare.
Sources
- 2020 Explorer Owner's Manual, Capacities and Specifications (fordservicecontent.com)
- CarCareTruth, 2020–2026 Explorer oil type & capacity (from OEM manuals)
- NHTSA recall 23V-675 / Ford 23S55, rear axle bolt replacement
- Ford recall 22S27 (NHTSA 22V-712), rear axle bolt software remedy
- NHTSA recall 23V-342 (Ford 23S23), 360-camera blue image
- Levittown Ford parts, FA-1947 / L1MZ-9601-A engine air filter (3.0L/3.3L)
- Ford Parts Giant, JX6Z-19N619-B cabin air filter, 2020 Explorer
- ExplorerST.org, factory H6 battery, fluid capacities (Mercon ULV, 75W-85 rear axle)
- fueleconomy.gov, 2021 Ford Explorer EPA ratings
- Goodyear / Mavis, 2021–2024 Explorer OE tire sizes by trim
- Car and Driver, 2020 Explorer specs (fuel tank, curb weight, towing)