The 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer came from the final years of the body-on-frame Explorer era, when buyers still wanted SUV utility but expected a broader range of trim personalities, from everyday XLT models to more upscale Eddie Bauer and Limited versions. That matters when choosing tires, because this Explorer uses four different primary radial sizes: 235/70R16, 245/65R17, 235/65R18, and 255/50R20. Some trims stay closer to practical touring fitment, while others move toward larger-diameter wheel packages. Tire choice is less about vintage-style construction and more about matching the exact sub-model, wheel diameter, and the look or road-use character you want before selecting a replacement.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer
The 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer uses four primary tire sizes, and they do not apply across every version of the vehicle. Fitment varies by sub-model and wheel package, so the first step is confirming the exact trim and wheel diameter on the SUV before choosing a tire. Once that is settled, the decision shifts to the type of radial tire that best suits the Explorer's use and appearance.
235/65R18 is a metric radial size in which 235 indicates nominal section width in millimeters, 65 is the aspect ratio, R identifies radial construction, and 18 is the wheel diameter in inches. On the 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer, this size belongs to specific trim and wheel combinations rather than every model. It keeps the Explorer in a modern SUV tire format with a substantial sidewall and an 18-inch wheel package. This is the size to evaluate when the vehicle already carries 18-inch wheels and you want replacement fitment that stays aligned with that setup.
245/65R17 is a metric radial size with a 245-millimeter nominal section width, a 65-series profile, radial construction, and a 17-inch rim diameter. For the 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer, it appears on certain trims that use a 17-inch wheel package. Available product choice in this size leans toward BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 with raised white letter styling, giving it a more truck-oriented visual character than a plain touring replacement. This size deserves a closer look when the Explorer is used for utility driving and still retains its 17-inch wheels.
255/50R20 is a metric radial size where 255 is the nominal section width in millimeters, 50 is the aspect ratio, R denotes radial construction, and 20 identifies the wheel diameter. On the 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer, this size is tied to trims equipped with a 20-inch wheel package, so it should not be treated as a universal replacement for smaller-wheel models. The shorter profile creates a different fitment context than the 16-, 17-, or 18-inch options. This is the right size to pursue only after confirming that the Explorer is actually set up with 20-inch wheels.
235/70R16 is a metric radial size with a 235-millimeter nominal section width, a 70-series aspect ratio, radial construction, and a 16-inch rim diameter. On the 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer, this size supports a distinctly different wheel package from the larger-diameter options. Product choice is broader here, with BFGoodrich all-terrain styling as well as wide whitewall radial options from American Classic and Coker Classic Star Series. This size makes sense when the Explorer keeps its 16-inch wheels and the goal is either practical road use or a more distinctive appearance.
Sub-model fitment matters on the 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer because tire size changes with trim and wheel package. Confirming whether the SUV is an Eddie Bauer, Limited, XLT, or XLT Sport is the clearest way to narrow the correct size before comparing products.
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2009 Ford Trucks Explorer Eddie Bauer
The 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer Eddie Bauer uses more than one radial tire size, depending on the wheel package installed on the vehicle. Tire selection starts with confirming whether it carries 17-, 18-, or 20-inch wheels, then choosing a replacement that matches the intended use and appearance.
The 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer Limited uses either an 18-inch or 20-inch radial tire package rather than the smaller-wheel XLT fitments. That makes wheel-diameter confirmation especially important before ordering, since the right choice depends on the actual wheel setup on the vehicle.
The 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer XLT uses either a 16-inch or 17-inch radial tire package. That opens the door to different replacement styles, including more utility-focused options and whitewall choices in 235/70R16, but only after the installed wheel diameter is verified.
The 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer XLT Sport centers its fitment around the 255/50R20 radial size. Tire selection is more straightforward here, but the 20-inch wheel package should still be confirmed before comparing replacements or evaluating any modified wheel setup.
The tire sizes listed on this page assume factory-standard vehicle configuration. The following modifications may affect tire fitment and are not reflected in this guide:
Suspension changes (lowering, lift kits, spring replacements)
Body alterations (fender modifications, custom bodywork)
If your vehicle has been modified from factory specifications, verify tire clearance before purchase.
Best 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer Tires for Sale
Available 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer tire choices center on 245/65R17 and 235/70R16, with BFGoodrich all-terrain options alongside American Classic and Coker Classic wide whitewall radials. The product grid is most useful for comparing sidewall style, tire series, load figures, weight, and rim-width compatibility.
Owners usually need to sort out exact tire size by trim and wheel diameter first, then compare radial tire styles, brands, and road-use priorities. These FAQs focus on fitment, wheel sizing, product choice, maintenance, and what to inspect before driving.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer?
A 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer can use 235/70R16, 245/65R17, 235/65R18, or 255/50R20, all in radial construction. The correct size depends on the sub-model and wheel package, so there is not one universal tire size for every Explorer in this model year.
The practical step is to confirm the exact trim level and the wheel diameter currently on the vehicle before selecting a tire. An XLT may use a 16-inch or 17-inch setup, while Eddie Bauer and Limited models can move into 18-inch or 20-inch fitments, so matching the replacement to the existing wheel is essential.
What size rim does a 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer use?
The 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer uses several rim diameters depending on configuration: 16-inch, 17-inch, 18-inch, and 20-inch. Each tire size matches one of those wheel diameters, so the rim size is built directly into the final number of the tire size code.
A 235/70R16 fits a 16-inch wheel, 245/65R17 fits a 17-inch wheel, 235/65R18 fits an 18-inch wheel, and 255/50R20 fits a 20-inch wheel. Checking the actual wheel on the SUV matters more than assuming by trim alone, especially if the Explorer has had replacement wheels installed at some point.
Why does the 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer have more than one tire size?
The 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer uses more than one tire size because different sub-models and wheel packages were part of the lineup. XLT, Eddie Bauer, Limited, and XLT Sport versions do not all share the same wheel diameter, so the tire size changes with the wheel setup.
That means tire selection should begin with the vehicle's exact trim and actual wheel size rather than the model name alone. It is also wise to compare the current tires to the wheel markings before replacement, since many Explorers have been updated with take-off wheels or aftermarket packages over time.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a tire for a 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer?
Start with the correct tire size for the Explorer's trim and wheel diameter, since this model year uses four different radial sizes. After that, compare the tire's intended character, such as all-terrain use versus a more classic wide whitewall presentation in sizes where those options are available.
Rim-width compatibility, load capacity, sidewall style, and vehicle use all matter once size is settled. A daily-driven SUV, a lightly used family Explorer, and a more appearance-focused example may point toward different product choices even within the same size, so the best comparison is always made after confirming the wheel already on the vehicle.
What sidewall styles are available for 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer tires?
Sidewall style depends on tire size. In the available products for this Explorer, 245/65R17 appears with RWL styling, while 235/70R16 includes both RWL and wide whitewall options. Those choices create a noticeably different look even when the tire remains in the proper size.
Raised white letter styling gives the Explorer a more truck-oriented presentation, especially with an all-terrain tread, while a wide whitewall creates a more distinctive custom or nostalgic appearance. Sidewall treatment should be chosen after confirming the correct size first, since not every Explorer wheel package has the same appearance options.
What brands offer tires for the 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer?
Available products for the 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer include BFGoodrich, American Classic, and Coker Classic. Brand choice depends on the tire size, with BFGoodrich covering both 245/65R17 and 235/70R16, while American Classic and Coker Classic appear in 235/70R16 wide whitewall form.
The right comparison is less about brand name alone and more about the kind of tire each brand offers in that size. BFGoodrich points toward an all-terrain, raised white letter option, while American Classic and Coker Classic bring a different sidewall presentation, so the Explorer's intended use and visual style should guide the decision.
Restoration & Appearance
Which tire should I choose for a period-style 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer?
A period-style choice for a 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer starts with keeping the correct size and wheel diameter for the specific trim. Since this Explorer is a modern radial-fitment SUV rather than a bias-ply-era vehicle, the appearance decision is usually about wheel package and sidewall treatment, not vintage construction.
On a 235/70R16 setup, wide whitewall radials create a much more stylized presentation than an all-terrain raised white letter tire. Buyers aiming for a more authentic model-year look should also compare the current wheel and trim combination with vehicle-specific brochures, dealer literature, or marque references before settling on a final appearance.
Does correct tire fitment matter for a 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer restoration?
Correct tire fitment matters because the 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer was offered with multiple wheel diameters, and the overall appearance changes significantly from a 16-inch package to a 20-inch package. Using the wrong size can alter both stance and the visual balance between tire sidewall and wheel.
A restoration-minded replacement should begin with the size tied to the vehicle's actual trim and wheel configuration, then narrow down sidewall style and tire character from there. Exact originality questions are best checked against model-year sales material or marque-specific references, especially when the Explorer has changed hands or received later wheel swaps.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer?
Yes. Wheel changes, altered ride height, suspension work, or fender modifications can affect tire fitment on a 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer, even when the tire size is one that belongs somewhere in the model-year range. A size that works on one setup should not be assumed to suit every modified example.
The safest approach is to verify the actual wheel diameter and width on the vehicle, then inspect steering and body clearance at full lock and full suspension movement. Modified Explorers also benefit from a close look at how close the tire sits to control arms, sway-bar links, and inner fender areas before road use.
What should I inspect before driving a 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer on new tires?
Before driving, inspect the Explorer's wheel condition, lug hardware, inflation pressure, and basic tire seating on the rim. It is also smart to look over suspension and steering components, because worn ball joints, tie-rod ends, or shocks can affect how a new tire feels and wears on the road.
A short test drive should include listening for rubbing, checking straight-line behavior, and confirming there is no interference during low-speed turning. After a few miles, recheck pressure and look for any signs of uneven contact or contact marks inside the wheelhouse, especially if the SUV has a wheel package different from stock.
How often should tires on a 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer be inspected?
Tires on a 2009 Ford Trucks Explorer should be inspected regularly, especially if the vehicle sees mixed family, utility, or occasional-use driving. Pressure, tread wear, cuts, bulges, cracking, and any sign of slow air loss deserve attention long before a long trip or seasonal weather change.
Low-use SUVs need the same attention as daily drivers because age and storage conditions matter as much as mileage. An Explorer that sits for extended periods should have its tires checked for flat spotting, weathering, and pressure loss, and the wheels should be inspected for damage or corrosion that could affect sealing and ride quality.
