The 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 sits in the era when full-size pickups were expected to handle daily road use, work duty, and a more personalized trim-driven appearance than earlier generations. Wheel and tire choice mattered because this truck could leave the factory with several distinct setups depending on the sub-model. Tire fitment ranges from 245/70R17 and 265/70R17 to 275/60R20 and 285/45R22, and every primary fitment here is radial. That makes the main decision less about vintage construction and more about matching the truck's exact trim and wheel diameter, then choosing the right style and load capability for how the truck is actually used.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 2012 RAM Trucks 1500
The 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 uses four primary tire sizes, and the correct one depends on the specific sub-model and wheel package. All four fitments are radial, but they do not all share the same rim diameter, so the first step is confirming the exact trim and whether the truck is on 17-inch, 20-inch, or 22-inch wheels before comparing tire choices.
Fit(s): Big Horn, Express, Laramie, Laramie Longhorn, Outdoorsman (20 Inch Option), SLT (20 Inch Option), and Sport
Construction: Radial|Rim: 20 in
275/60R20 is a metric radial size in which 275 identifies the section width in millimeters, 60 is the aspect ratio, R denotes radial construction, and 20 is the wheel diameter in inches. On the 2012 RAM Trucks 1500, this size is used on several trims and 20-inch option packages, making wheel confirmation especially important before selection. It represents a mainstream modern truck fitment rather than a vintage sizing system. This is the size to focus on when the truck has a factory-style 20-inch setup and the goal is to stay aligned with that wheel diameter and profile.
265/70R17 is a metric radial size that combines a 265-millimeter section width with a 70-series profile on a 17-inch rim. For the 2012 RAM Trucks 1500, it is tied to several 17-inch-wheel sub-models and has available BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 options with raised white letter sidewalls. Those choices also differ in load capacity and weight, which matters if the truck sees work use or carries heavier loads. This size is the one to evaluate when the truck remains on its 17-inch wheel package and an all-terrain-oriented replacement is the priority.
285/45R22 is a metric radial size with a 285-millimeter nominal width, a lower 45-series profile, and a 22-inch wheel diameter. On the 2012 RAM Trucks 1500, this size is specific to the Sport R/T, so it should not be treated as a general 1500 fitment. Its sizing points to a distinctly larger-wheel package than the truck's 17-inch and 20-inch applications. This is the size to verify when the truck is an R/T configuration or already carries its correct 22-inch wheel setup, since wheel diameter drives the entire tire decision.
245/70R17 is a metric radial size that uses a 245-millimeter section width, a 70-series aspect ratio, and a 17-inch rim. For the 2012 RAM Trucks 1500, it is associated with the Tradesman HD, which makes it a more specific fitment than the broader 265/70R17 applications elsewhere in the model line. BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 is available in this size with an RWL sidewall, giving it a more truck-oriented appearance. This size deserves close attention when matching a Tradesman HD wheel setup and load-oriented tire choice.
Sub-model fitment on the 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 varies substantially, and some trims also split by wheel-option package. Checking the exact sub-model name and wheel diameter is the key step before choosing a replacement tire.
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2012 RAM Trucks 1500 Big Horn
The 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 Big Horn uses a 275/60R20 radial tire. That keeps the decision centered on confirming the 20-inch wheel setup and then selecting a tire that matches the truck's intended road use and appearance.
The 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 Express uses a 275/60R20 radial tire. Tire selection starts with the 20-inch wheel package, then moves to choosing the right overall tire character for daily use, stance, and replacement goals.
The 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 Laramie uses a 275/60R20 radial tire. That makes wheel-diameter confirmation straightforward and shifts attention toward selecting a tire that suits the truck's current use, condition, and wheel setup.
The 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 Laramie Longhorn uses a 275/60R20 radial tire. Buyers should confirm that the truck still carries its 20-inch wheels, then compare replacement options with attention to fitment and intended driving use.
The 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 Outdoorsman uses a 265/70R17 radial tire in its standard configuration. That makes the 17-inch wheel package the starting point, especially when choosing among all-terrain-style replacements and load-capacity differences.
The 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 Outdoorsman (20 Inch Option) uses a 275/60R20 radial tire rather than the standard 17-inch Outdoorsman size. That option package makes wheel verification essential before replacing tires or comparing products across Outdoorsman trucks.
The 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 SLT uses a 265/70R17 radial tire in its standard form. Selection is most straightforward when the truck still has its original-style 17-inch wheel setup and the replacement choice stays within that fitment.
The 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 SLT (20 Inch Option) uses a 275/60R20 radial tire instead of the standard SLT's 17-inch fitment. That means the wheel package must be confirmed first so the truck is not matched to the wrong SLT tire size.
The 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 ST uses a 265/70R17 radial tire. Buyers should confirm the 17-inch wheel setup first, then compare replacements with attention to load needs, tread style, and how the truck is driven.
The 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 Sport uses a 275/60R20 radial tire. That places it with the truck's 20-inch applications, so tire choice starts with matching the wheel diameter and then narrowing the selection by use and appearance.
The 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 Sport R/T uses a 285/45R22 radial tire. Because this fitment is tied to a 22-inch wheel package, confirming that the truck still has the correct wheels is the first priority before any replacement decision.
The 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 Tradesman uses a 265/70R17 radial tire. That keeps tire selection focused on the 17-inch wheel package and, where relevant, comparing all-terrain-style options with suitable load capability for the truck's job.
The 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 Tradesman HD uses a 245/70R17 radial tire. Since that fitment differs from other 17-inch 1500 applications, the exact HD configuration should be confirmed before selecting a replacement tire.
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 RAM Trucks 1500 Tires for Sale
Available product choices center on 17-inch truck fitments, with BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 options in 265/70R17 and 245/70R17. The comparison points are load capacity, rim-width range, product weight, and raised white letter sidewall presentation.
Common questions for the 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 usually come down to exact tire size by sub-model, wheel diameter, available 17-inch product choices, and the fitment checks worth making before putting the truck back on the road.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 2012 RAM Trucks 1500?
A 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 can use 275/60R20, 265/70R17, 285/45R22, or 245/70R17, depending on the sub-model and wheel package. All of these are radial tire sizes, but they are not interchangeable primary fitments because they span 17-inch, 20-inch, and 22-inch wheel diameters.
The first step is identifying the truck's exact trim and confirming the wheel diameter currently on the vehicle. An SLT, Outdoorsman, or Tradesman may not use the same size as a Big Horn, Sport, or Sport R/T, and option-package trucks can change sizes within the same sub-model name.
What size rim does a 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 use?
The 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 uses more than one rim diameter across its fitments. The sizes covered here mount on 17-inch, 20-inch, or 22-inch wheels, depending on the specific sub-model and whether the truck has a larger-wheel option package.
That makes wheel confirmation more important than guessing from the model name alone. Checking the wheel itself, the existing tire sidewall, and the exact trim designation will keep a 17-inch truck from being matched to a 20-inch or 22-inch replacement size by mistake.
Why does the 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 have more than one tire size?
The 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 spans several trims, and those trims do not all share the same wheel and tire package. Standard 17-inch applications, 20-inch option packages, and the 22-inch Sport R/T setup create multiple correct tire sizes within the same model year.
That variation is normal for a pickup with work-oriented, comfort-oriented, and style-driven versions. Tire selection should start with the exact sub-model and current wheel setup, especially on trucks that may have changed hands, had dealer-installed accessories, or received aftermarket wheels later in life.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a tire for a 2012 RAM Trucks 1500?
Start with the correct size for the exact sub-model, then confirm wheel diameter and width before comparing tires. On the 2012 RAM Trucks 1500, the main fitment split is between 17-inch, 20-inch, and 22-inch applications, so getting that baseline right matters more than comparing tread style first.
After size is confirmed, look at how the truck is actually used. A road-driven trim with 20-inch wheels calls for a different replacement conversation than a 17-inch truck where available products include all-terrain BFGoodrich KO2 tires with different load capacities and rim-width ranges.
What sidewall styles are available for 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 tires?
Among the available 17-inch product choices for the 2012 RAM Trucks 1500, the sidewall style shown is RWL, or raised white letter. That styling appears on BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tires offered in both 265/70R17 and 245/70R17 fitments.
Sidewall style affects the truck's presentation even when the size stays the same. A raised white letter sidewall gives a more traditional off-road and light-truck look, so buyers should decide whether appearance matters as much as load capacity, tread character, and wheel compatibility.
What brands offer tires for the 2012 RAM Trucks 1500?
The available products shown for applicable 17-inch 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 fitments come from BFGoodrich. Those choices are in the All-Terrain T/A KO2 series, covering both 265/70R17 and 245/70R17 sizes used on certain sub-models.
Brand is only one part of the decision. It still helps to compare the exact size, rim-width range, product weight, and maximum load figure tied to each tire, especially when the truck may be used for hauling, mixed on-road driving, or a more truck-oriented appearance.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 2012 RAM Trucks 1500?
Yes, modifications can change tire fitment on a 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 even when the original size is known. Aftermarket wheels, altered wheel width, different offset, suspension changes, leveling kits, or lowered ride height can all affect how a replacement tire sits and clears the truck.
A truck that left the factory with 265/70R17 or 275/60R20 may no longer have the same wheel setup today. Before replacing tires, check actual wheel diameter and width, then inspect clearance at the fender, suspension, and steering range so the new size matches the truck as it exists now.
What should I inspect before driving a 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 on new tires?
Before driving a 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 on new tires, inspect the wheels for damage, confirm lug hardware condition, and make sure the chosen size matches the truck's actual wheel diameter. It also helps to verify inflation, look for visible interference, and confirm that the tires seat properly on the rims.
A short first drive should include listening for rubbing and checking steering response at full lock and over bumps. It is also wise to recheck air pressure after installation and keep an eye on uneven wear, since alignment or suspension issues can show up quickly after fresh tires are fitted.
How often should tires on a 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 be inspected?
Tires on a 2012 RAM Trucks 1500 should be inspected regularly rather than waiting for obvious trouble. Frequent visual checks for cuts, sidewall damage, irregular wear, embedded objects, and air loss are especially worthwhile on a truck that sees mixed duty, towing, rough roads, or long periods of sitting.
A scheduled inspection routine helps catch problems before they affect ride quality or safety. Checking pressure consistently, watching tread condition across all four tires, and looking at age-related deterioration on lower-use trucks can prevent a correct-size tire from becoming a poor road-use tire.
