The 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer marked the shift of Ford’s long-running family SUV into a more modern crossover format, blending everyday comfort with the space and road presence buyers still expected from an Explorer. That change also brought a straightforward radial-tire fitment story, but not a one-size-fits-all answer across the lineup. This model year uses 245/65R17, 245/60R18, or 255/50R20 depending on sub-model and wheel package. The key decision is confirming whether the vehicle is a Base, XLT, or Limited and matching the tire to the actual wheel diameter. That matters whether the goal is stock-style replacement or confirming fitment on a vehicle that may have changed wheels over time.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer
The 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer uses three primary tire sizes, and the right one depends on sub-model and wheel diameter. All three are radial metric sizes, but they are built for different 17-inch, 18-inch, or 20-inch wheel setups, so confirming the actual rim diameter is the first step before comparing tire choices.
245/65R17 is a metric radial size in which 245 is the nominal section width in millimeters, 65 is the aspect ratio, R identifies radial construction, and 17 is the wheel diameter in inches. On the 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer, this size is used on a 17-inch wheel setup rather than the larger wheel packages found on other sub-models. Available product choice in this size includes a BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 with raised white letter sidewalls. This size is worth evaluating carefully if the Explorer is a Base model or if the vehicle has been fitted with 17-inch wheels for a more rugged replacement approach.
255/50R20 is a metric radial size where 255 represents nominal section width in millimeters, 50 is the aspect ratio, R denotes radial construction, and 20 identifies the wheel diameter in inches. For the 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer, this size belongs to a 20-inch wheel package and is not interchangeable with the smaller-rim fitments without verifying the complete wheel and tire setup. Its lower-profile format gives it a distinct role within the Explorer lineup compared with the 17-inch and 18-inch sizes. This is the size to focus on when confirming Limited fitment or certain XLT configurations equipped with 20-inch wheels.
245/60R18 is a metric radial size with a 245-millimeter nominal section width, a 60-series profile, radial construction, and an 18-inch rim diameter. On the 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer, it serves as an 18-inch fitment that sits between the smaller 17-inch setup and the larger 20-inch package used elsewhere in the range. Its dimensions place it in a different wheel package category, so the main concern is matching it to the correct vehicle configuration rather than comparing it loosely to the other sizes. This size is especially relevant when checking an XLT that retains its original-style 18-inch wheel arrangement.
Tire fitment on the 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer varies by sub-model, and one XLT configuration uses more than one primary size. Identifying the exact trim and confirming the wheel diameter on the vehicle are the two most important steps before choosing a replacement tire.
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2012 Ford Trucks Explorer Base
The 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer Base uses a 245/65R17 radial tire on a 17-inch wheel setup. Tire selection here centers on staying with the correct metric size and confirming that the vehicle still has its 17-inch wheels if it has seen aftermarket changes.
The 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer Limited uses a 255/50R20 radial tire, making wheel diameter especially important before replacement. A Limited owner should confirm that the SUV still carries its 20-inch wheel package before comparing tires within this lower-profile size category.
The 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer XLT can use either 245/60R18 or 255/50R20 radial tires depending on the wheel package. That makes wheel confirmation the first step, followed by choosing a tire that matches the intended use and the exact rim diameter already on the vehicle.
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 Ford Trucks Explorer Tires for Sale
Current product coverage for the 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer centers on 245/65R17, with a BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 option featuring radial construction, raised white letter sidewalls, and a 7.0- to 8.0-inch rim-width range that suits buyers comparing a more truck-oriented replacement style.
Common questions for the 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer usually come down to identifying the right tire size by sub-model, confirming wheel diameter, comparing available tire styles, and checking fitment details before regular road use.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer?
The 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer uses three primary tire sizes: 245/65R17, 245/60R18, and 255/50R20. The Base uses 245/65R17, the Limited uses 255/50R20, and the XLT can use either 245/60R18 or 255/50R20 depending on its wheel package.
The most important step is matching the tire to the actual wheel diameter on the vehicle. An Explorer that has changed hands may have different wheels than it left the factory with, so checking the sidewall size already on the tire and confirming the rim diameter avoids ordering the wrong fitment.
What size rim does a 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer use?
A 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer can use 17-inch, 18-inch, or 20-inch rims depending on sub-model and wheel package. The 245/65R17 tire uses a 17-inch rim, the 245/60R18 uses an 18-inch rim, and the 255/50R20 uses a 20-inch rim.
Rim diameter is the first fitment detail to confirm because the three Explorer tire sizes are tied directly to three different wheel diameters. Looking at the current tire sidewall or measuring the wheel is a smarter starting point than choosing by appearance alone, especially on an XLT with multiple valid fitments.
Why does the 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer have more than one tire size?
The 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer has more than one tire size because different sub-models and wheel packages use different rim diameters. Base models use 245/65R17, Limited models use 255/50R20, and XLT models can use either 245/60R18 or 255/50R20.
That means tire selection starts with vehicle configuration rather than brand or tread style. On this Explorer, the difference is not just section width or sidewall height but the wheel itself, so the correct replacement path is to confirm trim level and inspect the actual wheels currently installed.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a 245/65R17 tire for a 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer?
Start with the correct 245/65R17 size and confirm that the Explorer is riding on 17-inch wheels. The available product in this fitment is a radial BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 with a raised white letter sidewall, a 7.0- to 8.0-inch rim-width range, and a maximum load capacity of 2,405 lbs at 65 psi.
That combination makes size, rim-width compatibility, and intended use the main decision points. A buyer looking for a more truck-style appearance may like the RWL presentation, while someone replacing tires on a stock-height family SUV should also check clearance, wheel width, and whether the current setup has been altered.
What sidewall styles are available for 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer tires?
Among the currently covered products for the 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer, the visible sidewall style is RWL, or raised white letter, in 245/65R17. That sidewall treatment gives the tire a more traditional light-truck appearance than a plain black sidewall.
Sidewall style affects presentation more than basic fitment, but it still matters to many owners. A raised white letter tire changes the visual character of the Explorer, so it is worth deciding whether the goal is a more rugged look, a more understated look, or simply matching the appearance already on the vehicle.
What brands offer tires for the 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer?
Current product coverage for the 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer includes BFGoodrich in 245/65R17. The available tire in that size is the All-Terrain T/A KO2, a radial light-truck-style tire that suits buyers comparing a more aggressive replacement option.
Brand choice should still come after the fitment basics are settled. On an Explorer with multiple possible wheel diameters, selecting the correct size and wheel match is more important than choosing by name alone, and then the buyer can compare sidewall style, tire series character, and rim-width compatibility.
Restoration & Appearance
Which tire should I choose for a period-style 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer?
A period-style choice for a 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer starts with keeping the correct size for the trim and wheel package already on the vehicle. Since this model year uses modern radial metric sizes, the most authentic-looking approach is usually staying with the proper 17-inch, 18-inch, or 20-inch fitment rather than forcing a different profile.
Appearance on a newer collector-era SUV comes more from proportions and wheel match than from vintage sidewall treatments. If originality matters, check the vehicle’s trim, existing wheel size, and historical references for that exact configuration before changing tire dimensions simply to chase a different look.
Does correct tire fitment matter for a 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer restoration?
Correct tire fitment matters on a 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer restoration because the tire size, sidewall profile, and wheel diameter all shape how the SUV sits and looks. A Base on 245/65R17 has a different visual presentation than a Limited on 255/50R20, even before tread style enters the picture.
Restoration-minded buyers should treat size accuracy as the foundation and cosmetic choice as the second step. Matching the trim level to the proper wheel-and-tire package helps preserve the Explorer’s intended stance, while a mismatch in diameter or profile can make the vehicle look noticeably off even if the tires mount successfully.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer?
Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer. Aftermarket wheels, suspension changes, altered ride height, or non-original offsets can all change which tire size works properly, even when the vehicle began life with one of the stock 17-inch, 18-inch, or 20-inch packages.
That is especially important on an XLT because it already has more than one factory-style size path. A changed wheel setup can affect clearance at the fender, steering components, or suspension, so the practical approach is to inspect the current wheels and tires closely before assuming the trim-level fitment still applies.
What should I inspect before driving a 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer on new tires?
Before driving a 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer on new tires, inspect the wheel diameter, wheel width, valve stems, and general wheel condition, then confirm the tires are mounted in the correct size. It is also smart to check for uneven suspension wear, alignment-related tread issues, and any sign of rubbing at full steering lock.
New tires perform best when the rest of the setup is ready for them. Tire pressure should be set correctly, lug hardware should be properly secured, and the first miles should include a quick check for vibration, pull, or clearance problems that may point to an issue beyond the tire itself.
How often should tires on a 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer be inspected?
Tires on a 2012 Ford Trucks Explorer should be inspected regularly, not only when tread looks worn. Monthly pressure checks and routine visual inspections for cuts, cracking, bulges, punctures, and uneven wear are sensible habits, especially on an SUV that may see family use, highway miles, or long gaps between drives.
Collector-minded or lightly used Explorers deserve extra attention because age and storage conditions matter even when mileage stays low. Looking over the sidewalls and tread before longer trips helps catch issues early, and any persistent air loss, unusual wear pattern, or vibration is a good reason to have the setup checked professionally.
