The 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator sits in the full-size luxury SUV segment, blending truck-based capability with the upscale road presence that defined premium American utility vehicles in this era. Buyers looking after one today are often balancing original appearance, everyday drivability, and the realities of replacement tire availability. This Navigator uses radial tires in two primary sizes, 255/70R18 and 275/55R20, so wheel diameter is the first thing to confirm before choosing a set. The decision then shifts to the tire's proportions and how each size supports the vehicle's stance and road use. Checking the exact wheel setup matters even more on Navigators that may have seen wheel or suspension changes over time.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator
The 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator uses two primary tire sizes, and the correct choice depends first on the wheel diameter installed on the vehicle. Both sizes are radial fitments, but one is built for an 18-inch rim and the other for a 20-inch rim. Since both Navigator Base and Navigator L can use either size, confirming the actual wheel setup is more important than identifying the sub-model alone.
The size code 255/70R18 identifies a metric radial tire with a nominal section width of 255 millimeters, a 70-series profile, and fitment for an 18-inch rim. On the 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator, this size suits vehicles equipped with the 18-inch wheel package and maintains the taller-profile look associated with this sizing format. Its role in tire selection is mainly about matching the actual wheel diameter already on the vehicle rather than choosing between constructions. Before selecting this size, verify that the Navigator still carries its intended 18-inch wheels and has not been changed to a different wheel package.
The size code 275/55R20 identifies a metric radial tire with a nominal section width of 275 millimeters, a 55-series profile, and use on a 20-inch rim. On the 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator, this size applies to vehicles fitted with the 20-inch wheel setup and gives a lower-profile presentation than the 18-inch option. The practical difference for the buyer is not construction but wheel compatibility and overall tire proportions. Confirming the actual 20-inch rim on the vehicle is the key first step, especially if the Navigator has had wheel changes at any point.
Tire fitment is straightforward across the covered 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator sub-models because both the Base and Navigator L can use the same two radial sizes. The important check is the wheel diameter currently on the vehicle, since either sub-model may be running 18-inch or 20-inch rims.
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2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator Base
The 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator Base can use either of the two primary radial tire sizes, depending on whether it has 18-inch or 20-inch wheels. Tire selection starts with confirming the installed rim diameter, then choosing a tire that matches the intended look and road-use needs of that setup.
The 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator L shares the same two radial size options as the standard-wheelbase model, so sub-model name alone does not settle the fitment question. The deciding factor is whether the vehicle is equipped with 18-inch or 20-inch wheels, especially if it has been altered from its earlier 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
These FAQs focus on the 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator tire sizes, 18-inch versus 20-inch rim fitment, choosing between the two radial size formats, and the checks that matter before road use on a full-size luxury SUV.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator?
A 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator uses one of two radial tire sizes: 255/70R18 or 275/55R20. The correct size depends on the wheel diameter installed on the vehicle, since these are different fitments built for different rims rather than interchangeable versions of the same package.
The most important next step is to confirm whether the Navigator has 18-inch or 20-inch wheels before selecting tires. Both the Base and Navigator L can use either size, so the sub-model name alone is not enough. A quick wheel check prevents ordering a tire that matches the vehicle generation but not the actual rim on the SUV.
What size rim does a 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator use?
The 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator uses either an 18-inch rim or a 20-inch rim, depending on which tire size is on the vehicle. The 255/70R18 size belongs on an 18-inch wheel, while the 275/55R20 size belongs on a 20-inch wheel.
That rim-diameter check should come before any discussion of brand or tread choice. Looking at the wheel itself, reading the tire sidewall, and confirming that the SUV has not been changed from its earlier wheel package are the practical ways to avoid a mismatch. This matters especially on used Navigators, where wheel upgrades are common.
Do all 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator sub-models use the same tire size?
Both 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator sub-models covered here, the Base and the Navigator L, can use the same two tire sizes: 255/70R18 and 275/55R20. That means tire fitment is shared across sub-models, but it still depends on which wheel diameter is actually installed on the individual vehicle.
In practical terms, the buyer should treat wheel size as the deciding factor instead of assuming the longer-wheelbase model uses a different tire. Check the sidewall size already on the SUV and confirm the rim diameter before replacing anything. That approach is especially helpful when the vehicle has changed hands or may have aftermarket wheels.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a 255/70R18 or 275/55R20 tire for a 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator?
Start with the actual tire size and wheel diameter already on the vehicle, because the 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator uses two different radial fitments. A 255/70R18 belongs on an 18-inch rim, while a 275/55R20 belongs on a 20-inch rim. The choice is driven by the wheel package, not by switching between two sizes on the same rim.
Once the correct size is confirmed, consider how the tire's proportions suit the way the Navigator is used. The 18-inch setup carries a taller sidewall, while the 20-inch setup uses a wider, lower-profile tire. It also helps to check whether the SUV has stock wheels, altered suspension, or body changes that could affect clearance and overall fitment.
How do I choose between the available 255/70R18 and 275/55R20 tires for a 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator?
Choosing between 255/70R18 and 275/55R20 on a 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator is really about choosing the correct tire for the wheels already on the SUV. These sizes are not alternatives for the same rim. One is built for an 18-inch wheel and the other is built for a 20-inch wheel.
After that first fitment check, compare tires within the correct size based on the vehicle's use and the look you want to maintain. A taller-sidewall 18-inch package and a lower-profile 20-inch package present the vehicle differently, even though their overall diameters are close. Any change in wheel style, offset, or suspension height should be checked before replacement.
What rim-fitment details should I compare when choosing tires for a 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator?
The most important rim-fitment detail is wheel diameter, since the 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator uses either 18-inch or 20-inch tire sizes. Matching 255/70R18 to an 18-inch wheel or 275/55R20 to a 20-inch wheel is the first requirement. Beyond that, the buyer should pay attention to the wheel setup currently on the vehicle.
Wheel width, offset, and any aftermarket changes can influence how a tire sits and whether clearance remains acceptable through steering and suspension travel. Even when the tire size itself is correct, a modified wheel package can change the fitment picture. That is why a visual check of the actual wheel and tire combination is always worthwhile before replacement.
Restoration & Appearance
Which tire should I choose for a period-style 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator?
A period-style approach for a 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator starts with keeping the correct wheel-and-tire format already associated with the vehicle: 255/70R18 on 18-inch wheels or 275/55R20 on 20-inch wheels. Since both are primary radial fitments, the period-style decision is more about preserving the original size relationship than changing construction type.
Owners aiming for a faithful early-2000s luxury SUV presentation should avoid guessing based on the sub-model name alone and instead confirm the wheel package on the vehicle. If exact restoration accuracy matters, compare the current setup with window-sticker, build-sheet, or marque-reference material. That keeps the tire choice aligned with the vehicle's intended appearance rather than a later modification.
Does correct tire fitment matter for a 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator restoration?
Correct tire fitment matters on a 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator restoration because tire size affects both visual stance and wheel compatibility. Using the proper 255/70R18 or 275/55R20 size keeps the vehicle in the right size family for its wheel package and avoids turning the restoration into a compromise at one of the most visible points on the SUV.
That matters even on a newer collector-era vehicle because wheel and tire changes are common over time. A restoration-minded owner should confirm whether the SUV still wears its intended 18-inch or 20-inch setup before replacement. Keeping the fitment consistent with the actual wheel package helps preserve appearance, clearance, and the overall character of the finished vehicle.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator?
Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator even when the tire size looks familiar. Aftermarket wheels, changes in wheel offset, suspension lowering or lifting, and body alterations can all change the amount of clearance available around the tire during turning and suspension movement.
That is why a modified Navigator should be checked as an actual wheel-and-tire package rather than by model year alone. Confirm the current wheel diameter first, then inspect for clearance at the fender, steering components, and suspension. A vehicle that has been changed from stock may need more careful measurement before replacing either 255/70R18 or 275/55R20 tires.
What should I inspect before driving a 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator on new tires?
Before driving a 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator on new tires, inspect the wheel diameter, verify the installed tire size, and make sure the tires are properly seated and inflated. It is also smart to look over the wheels for damage and check that nothing in the suspension or steering area is contacting the tire.
A short road check should follow the installation so any vibration, rubbing, or pull can be caught early. On a full-size SUV like the Navigator, uneven wear patterns, worn suspension parts, or alignment issues can show up quickly if they were already present. Catching those problems early helps the new tires wear more evenly and drive as intended.
How often should tires on a 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator be inspected?
Tires on a 2009 Lincoln Trucks Navigator should be inspected regularly, not just when tread looks low. Pressure, visible wear, cracking, cuts, bulges, and signs of air loss are all worth checking on a routine basis, especially on a heavier luxury SUV that may spend periods parked and then return to regular road use.
A visual inspection before longer trips is especially worthwhile, and any change in ride feel should be taken seriously. Owners should also keep an eye on the inside shoulder and outer edges for uneven wear that could point to alignment or suspension issues. Regular checks help protect both tire life and the vehicle's road manners over time.
