The 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator sits in the full-size luxury SUV class with the presence, towing capability, and road-going comfort that defined premium American utility vehicles of its era. Buyers looking after one today are often balancing everyday drivability with the clean, substantial stance that makes a Navigator look right. For this exact model, tire selection starts with two primary radial sizes: 255/70R18 and 275/55R20. Those sizes point to two different wheel diameters, so the first step is confirming whether the vehicle is on 18-inch or 20-inch wheels. From there, the real decision becomes choosing the right size for the wheel already on the vehicle and checking overall condition before road use.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator
The 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator uses two primary tire sizes, and both are radial fitments tied to different wheel diameters. The key decision is not trim level, since both Base and L models can use either size, but confirming whether the vehicle is equipped with 18-inch or 20-inch wheels before selecting a tire.
255/70R18 is a metric radial size in which 255 identifies the nominal section width in millimeters, 70 is the aspect ratio, R indicates radial construction, and 18 is the rim diameter in inches. On the 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator, this size suits vehicles running an 18-inch wheel and maintains the modern radial format expected on a luxury SUV of this period. Its sizing balance is useful for owners who want to stay with the correct wheel diameter already on the vehicle. Wheel confirmation should come first, especially if the Navigator has had aftermarket wheel changes at any point.
275/55R20 is a metric radial size with a 275-millimeter nominal section width, a 55-series aspect ratio, radial construction, and a 20-inch rim diameter. For the 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator, this size applies to vehicles equipped with 20-inch wheels and represents a distinct fitment path from the 18-inch setup. The lower profile and larger rim diameter make wheel verification especially important before replacement. This is the size to evaluate when the Navigator is already on factory-style or properly matched 20-inch wheels rather than the 18-inch configuration.
Tire fitment for the 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator is straightforward across the covered sub-models because both the Base and the L can use the same two radial sizes. What matters most is confirming the actual wheel diameter on the vehicle before choosing between the 18-inch and 20-inch fitments.
1
2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator Base
The 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator Base can use either of the two primary radial tire sizes used for this model. Tire selection comes down to confirming whether the vehicle is on 18-inch or 20-inch wheels and then choosing the correct size for that wheel setup.
The 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator L shares the same basic tire-fitment pattern as the standard model, with both primary radial sizes applying depending on wheel diameter. The practical step is checking the wheel already on the vehicle so the replacement tire matches the existing 18-inch or 20-inch configuration.
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
Common questions for the 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator usually center on identifying the correct tire size, confirming 18-inch versus 20-inch wheel fitment, and knowing what to inspect before putting a full-size luxury SUV back into regular road use.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator?
The 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator uses two primary tire sizes: 255/70R18 and 275/55R20. Both are radial sizes, and both apply to this model depending on which wheel diameter is on the vehicle.
The important step is matching the tire to the actual wheel rather than choosing by appearance alone. An 18-inch wheel requires the 255/70R18 size, while a 20-inch wheel requires 275/55R20. If the Navigator has been changed from its original wheel setup, check the wheel marking and compare the current tire size before replacing anything.
What size rim does a 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator use?
A 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator uses either an 18-inch or 20-inch rim, depending on the tire size on the vehicle. The 255/70R18 size goes with an 18-inch rim, and the 275/55R20 size goes with a 20-inch rim.
Rim diameter is the first thing to verify because these two tire sizes are not for the same wheel. Looking at the size stamped on the current tire is a quick starting point, but it is still wise to confirm the wheel itself, especially on a used SUV that may have had wheel upgrades, replacements, or seasonal tire changes over time.
Do all 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator sub-models use the same tire size?
The 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator Base and the 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator L both use the same two tire sizes: 255/70R18 and 275/55R20. Fitment does not split by sub-model here in the usual sense of one trim using one size and another trim using a different one.
That means the key fitment question is wheel diameter, not whether the vehicle is a Base or an L. A longer-wheelbase model can still be on either size depending on how it was equipped. Checking the exact tire currently installed and confirming the wheel diameter will keep the replacement choice aligned with the vehicle’s present setup.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a tire for a 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator?
Start with the correct primary size for the wheel on the vehicle: 255/70R18 for an 18-inch wheel or 275/55R20 for a 20-inch wheel. Since both sizes are radial fitments, the main selection issue is proper size and wheel match rather than choosing between vintage bias-ply and radial construction.
After size confirmation, compare the vehicle’s intended use and overall setup. A Navigator used for regular road miles, family hauling, or towing duty benefits from staying within the correct size range for its wheel and maintaining proper load-carrying suitability. If wheels or suspension have been changed, measure carefully so the replacement tire works with available clearance and the SUV’s stance.
How do I choose between 255/70R18 and 275/55R20 tires for a 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator?
The choice between 255/70R18 and 275/55R20 is determined by wheel diameter, not personal preference alone. A 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator with 18-inch wheels uses 255/70R18, while one with 20-inch wheels uses 275/55R20.
Because the two sizes are built for different rims, switching between them involves more than changing tires. A vehicle already set up with one diameter should generally stay with that matching size unless the wheels are being changed as part of a broader fitment plan. Tire sidewall markings, wheel stamps, and overall clearance are the most useful things to confirm before making a change.
What rim-fitment details should I compare when choosing 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator tires?
The most important rim-fitment detail is diameter, since the 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator uses either an 18-inch or 20-inch wheel. The tire must match that wheel exactly, so 255/70R18 belongs on an 18-inch rim and 275/55R20 belongs on a 20-inch rim.
It also helps to inspect the wheel itself for any aftermarket changes that could affect tire selection beyond diameter alone. A used luxury SUV may have replacement wheels, altered offsets, or suspension changes that influence clearance at the fender, steering components, and inner wheelwell. Confirming the wheel setup before purchase prevents choosing the right size on paper for the wrong hardware in practice.
Restoration & Appearance
Does correct tire fitment matter for a 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator restoration or preservation project?
Correct tire fitment matters because the 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator was designed around either a 255/70R18 or 275/55R20 radial setup. Even on a newer collector or preservation-minded SUV, the right size helps maintain the intended relationship between the wheel, tire profile, and overall stance.
Appearance and fitment should be considered together. A mismatch between wheel diameter and tire size can change how the vehicle sits and may create avoidable clearance issues. Owners aiming for a clean, era-appropriate presentation should confirm the existing wheel setup first, then choose a tire that preserves the Navigator’s substantial factory-inspired look without guessing across sizes.
Which tire size suits a period-style 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator appearance?
A period-style 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator appearance starts with using the tire size that matches the wheel currently on the vehicle. That means 255/70R18 on an 18-inch setup or 275/55R20 on a 20-inch setup, since both are proper primary radial sizes for this model.
The visual effect comes from keeping the tire and wheel combination proportionate rather than forcing a different size. On a preserved or lightly restored luxury SUV, that usually means avoiding a mismatch that makes the wheel look undersized or the sidewall look out of place. Checking the exact wheel diameter is the simplest way to keep the finished look consistent with the vehicle’s era.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator?
Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator, even when the tire size itself is one of the correct primary sizes. Wheel changes, altered offsets, suspension lowering or lifting, and previous body repairs can all influence how a tire sits and clears.
A Navigator that has aftermarket wheels may need closer checking than a stock example. Turn the steering from lock to lock, inspect inner clearance, and look at the space around the fender openings before replacing tires. Even with the correct 255/70R18 or 275/55R20 size, the actual vehicle setup determines whether the fit remains comfortable and usable on the road.
What should I inspect before driving a 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator on new tires?
Before driving a 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator on new tires, inspect wheel condition, air pressure, lug hardware, and the overall state of the suspension and steering components. It also helps to confirm that the installed tire size matches the wheel diameter and that all four tires are consistent with the intended setup.
A large SUV places real demand on its tires, so a quick road-use check is worthwhile even after installation. Look for any rubbing at full steering angle, listen for unusual contact over bumps, and recheck inflation after the first miles. On a vehicle that has spent time parked, inspect for age-related cracking, bulges, or slow air loss before longer trips.
How should tires on a 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator be maintained?
Tires on a 2011 Lincoln Trucks Navigator should be maintained with regular pressure checks, visual inspections, and close attention to tread wear and sidewall condition. Since this model uses modern radial sizes, keeping the tires matched to the correct wheel diameter and in even condition across the vehicle is an important part of routine upkeep.
Collector-owned or lightly used SUVs need attention even when mileage stays low. Tires can age while parked, so inspect for cracking, flat spotting, bulges, and gradual air loss, especially before highway driving. Storage away from prolonged sun, heat, and moisture helps preserve the tire, and any sign of damage or unusual wear is a good reason for professional inspection.
