The 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse was built as a family-sized crossover with three-row practicality, a carlike driving character, and trim levels that could move from straightforward daily use to a more upscale appearance. That matters when choosing tires, because this Traverse uses three different primary radial sizes depending on sub-model and wheel package: 245/70R17, 255/65R18, or 255/55R20. The tire decision here starts with confirming the exact trim and wheel diameter rather than comparing bias-ply and radial construction. From there, the focus shifts to the right profile, wheel compatibility, and whether the tire choice suits stock-style road use or a more rugged replacement look.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse
The 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse uses three primary tire sizes, and the right one depends on the exact sub-model and wheel diameter. All three are radial fitments, but they do not share the same rim size, so the first step is confirming whether the vehicle has 17-inch, 18-inch, or 20-inch wheels before choosing a tire.
245/70R17 is a metric radial size in which 245 represents the section width in millimeters, 70 is the aspect ratio, R designates radial construction, and 17 is the wheel diameter in inches. On the 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse, this size is used on a 17-inch wheel and suits the sub-models equipped with that wheel package. Available product choice in this fitment includes a BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 with raised white letter sidewall styling. This size is the one to evaluate when the vehicle is an LS or when the Traverse is wearing its original 17-inch wheel diameter.
255/65R18 is a metric radial size that combines a 255-millimeter section width, a 65-series profile, radial construction, and an 18-inch rim diameter. For the 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse, this size belongs to configurations equipped with 18-inch wheels rather than the 17-inch or 20-inch packages. Its role in the fitment lineup is to match the Traverse LT models that use the mid-size wheel diameter. This is the size to confirm when replacing tires on an LT that still has its original-style 18-inch wheel setup and standard overall fitment geometry.
255/55R20 is a metric radial size with a 255-millimeter section width, a lower 55-series profile, radial construction, and a 20-inch rim diameter. On the 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse, this size applies to the sub-models equipped with the largest wheel package in the lineup. Compared with the other Traverse fitments here, the key distinction is the 20-inch wheel requirement rather than a change in construction type. This is the size to check when the vehicle is an LTZ or LT All-Star Edition, or whenever the Traverse is already fitted with 20-inch wheels.
Tire fitment on the 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse varies by sub-model, so checking the exact trim matters before choosing a replacement. The main difference is wheel diameter, with LS, LT, LT All-Star Edition, and LTZ using different primary size and rim combinations.
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2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse LS
The 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse LS uses the 245/70R17 radial size on a 17-inch wheel package. That makes the selection process more about confirming the existing wheel setup and choosing a tire style that matches how the Traverse is driven and presented.
The 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse LT uses the 255/65R18 radial size, placing it on the 18-inch wheel fitment rather than the 17-inch LS or 20-inch upper-wheel packages. Tire selection starts with keeping that 18-inch size matched to the actual wheels on the vehicle.
2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse LT (All-Star Edition)
The 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse LT (All-Star Edition) uses the 255/55R20 radial size tied to a 20-inch wheel package. That means replacement choices should begin with confirming the vehicle still has the correct 20-inch wheels and enough clearance for the existing setup.
The 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse LTZ also uses the 255/55R20 radial size on a 20-inch wheel. For this sub-model, the tire decision centers on maintaining the correct wheel diameter and choosing a replacement that suits the Traverse's road-use needs and overall look.
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 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse Tires for Sale
Available product choice for the 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse is currently centered on the 245/70R17 size, with a BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 radial that uses raised white letter sidewalls and fits 17-inch wheels within a 6.5- to 8.0-inch rim-width range.
These FAQs focus on the tire sizes used on the 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse, how trim level affects rim fitment, and what to check when choosing replacement tires for stock or modified wheel setups.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse?
A 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse uses one of three primary radial sizes: 245/70R17, 255/65R18, or 255/55R20. The correct size depends on the sub-model and wheel package, with LS using 245/70R17, LT using 255/65R18, and LT All-Star Edition and LTZ using 255/55R20.
The most important step is matching the tire to the actual wheel diameter on the vehicle. A Traverse that has had wheel changes over time may no longer match its original trim-level setup, so checking the tire sidewall and measuring wheel diameter before ordering helps avoid choosing the wrong fitment.
What size rim does a 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse use?
The 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse uses 17-inch, 18-inch, or 20-inch rims depending on sub-model. The 245/70R17 size goes with a 17-inch rim, 255/65R18 goes with an 18-inch rim, and 255/55R20 goes with a 20-inch rim.
Rim diameter is the first fitment detail to confirm because none of these sizes crosses over to another wheel diameter. Looking only at trim name is not always enough on an older used vehicle, especially if wheels were replaced, so the safest approach is to verify both the current tire size and the wheel itself.
Why does the 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse have more than one tire size?
The 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse has more than one tire size because different sub-models were paired with different wheel packages. LS uses a 17-inch setup, LT uses an 18-inch setup, and LT All-Star Edition and LTZ use a 20-inch setup, so the tire size changes with the wheel diameter.
That means tire selection is tied to equipment level rather than a universal Traverse fitment. On a vehicle that has changed hands a few times, it is smart to confirm whether the current wheels are original to the trim or whether an earlier owner moved to a different factory-style or aftermarket package.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a 245/70R17 tire for a 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse?
Start by confirming that 245/70R17 is the correct size for the specific Traverse and that it is mounted on a 17-inch wheel. In the available choices for this fitment, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 brings radial construction, raised white letter sidewalls, a 6.5- to 8.0-inch rim-width range, and a maximum load capacity of 3,000 lbs @ 80 psi.
Those details matter because a replacement tire is not just about matching the size code. Rim width, intended use, sidewall appearance, load needs, and the overall character of the tire should all line up with how the Traverse is driven and whether it remains on a stock-style wheel setup.
What sidewall styles are available for 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse tires?
Among the currently available products for this 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse fitment range, the visible sidewall style is RWL, or raised white letter. That sidewall treatment appears on the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 available in the 245/70R17 size.
Sidewall style changes the overall presentation of the vehicle, especially on a crossover that may be used as a daily driver or given a more rugged look. It is still important to choose sidewall appearance after confirming the right size and wheel diameter, since style should not override the basic fitment requirements.
What brands offer tires for the 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse?
Current product availability for the 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse includes BFGoodrich in the 245/70R17 size. The available example in that fitment is the All-Terrain T/A KO2 radial, which pairs a more aggressive tire character with raised white letter sidewalls.
Brand choice is only one part of the decision. A Traverse owner should still compare whether the tire matches the correct trim-level size, the wheel width, and the intended use of the vehicle, especially if the goal is keeping a stock wheel package or moving toward a more utility-oriented appearance.
Restoration & Appearance
Which tire should I choose for a period-style 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse?
A period-style choice for a 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse starts with keeping the original trim-level tire size and wheel diameter in place. That means 245/70R17 for LS, 255/65R18 for LT, and 255/55R20 for LT All-Star Edition and LTZ, all in radial construction.
For a clean, stock-style presentation, matching the original size format matters more than chasing a dramatically different tread character. On a vehicle that has been modified over time, returning to the proper wheel diameter and profile usually does more for the overall look than changing brand alone.
Does correct tire fitment matter for a 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse restoration?
Correct tire fitment matters because the 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse used different tire sizes across its sub-model lineup, and each one was tied to a specific wheel diameter. Using the wrong size can change the vehicle's stance, wheel-to-tire proportion, and overall presentation even before any road-use concerns are considered.
A restoration-oriented approach should begin with confirming the trim level and whether the current wheels match that configuration. When exact originality is important, trim-specific references, original vehicle paperwork, or marque-focused sources can help verify whether the Traverse still carries the wheel and tire package it should.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse?
Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse. Aftermarket wheels, altered wheel width, suspension changes, lowering, or body modifications can all change how a 245/70R17, 255/65R18, or 255/55R20 tire sits in the wheel opening and how much steering or suspension clearance remains.
Even when the sidewall size looks familiar, a modified Traverse should be checked carefully before replacement. Wheel diameter, wheel width, and clearance at full steering lock matter, and any change from the original trim-level setup is a reason to inspect the vehicle closely rather than assume the stock size still suits it.
What should I inspect before driving a 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse on new tires?
Before driving a 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse on new tires, inspect wheel condition, confirm the tire size matches the actual rim diameter, and make sure the tires are inflated properly for the application. It is also wise to look over suspension and steering components so the new tires are not being asked to work around existing wear.
A short visual check after installation helps catch avoidable issues early. Watch for sidewall contact, uneven seating on the wheel, unusual air loss, vibration, and any sign that the tire is too close to suspension parts or the fender area when the vehicle is turned or loaded.
How often should tires on a 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse be inspected?
Tires on a 2012 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse should be inspected regularly, not only at service intervals. A quick check of tread condition, air pressure, cuts, bulges, sidewall damage, and uneven wear can help catch problems before they become larger fitment or road-use issues.
That routine matters even more on a vehicle that sees mixed use or long gaps between drives. A Traverse that sits for extended periods can still develop air loss or age-related deterioration, so periodic inspection of all four tires and the spare remains a smart part of keeping it ready for dependable road use.
