The 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse was built as a family-focused crossover with the size and road manners buyers expected from a three-row vehicle in the modern SUV market. Its tire fitment reflects that role, with radial sizes that vary by trim and wheel package rather than one universal setup across the line. The Traverse uses 245/70R17, 255/65R18, or 255/55R20 depending on sub-model, so the first step is matching the tire to the exact trim and wheel diameter. Available choices here center more on confirming correct size, rim fitment, and intended use than on vintage-style appearance. For everyday driving, replacement planning starts with the wheel on the vehicle now.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse
The 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse 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 tied to different 17-inch, 18-inch, and 20-inch wheel setups. Before choosing a tire, confirm the exact Traverse trim and the wheel diameter currently on the vehicle, especially if it has seen wheel changes over time.
245/70R17 is a metric radial size in which 245 identifies the nominal section width in millimeters, 70 is the aspect ratio, R indicates radial construction, and 17 is the rim diameter in inches. On the 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse, this size belongs to a 17-inch wheel setup and suits buyers who need to stay with that specific wheel diameter. Product choice in this size can also bring differences in sidewall presentation and service character, including raised white letter styling. It is the size to evaluate when the vehicle wears the matching 17-inch wheels and trim configuration.
255/55R20 is a metric radial size with a 255-millimeter nominal section width, a 55-series profile, radial construction, and a 20-inch rim diameter. On the 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse, it is used on certain upper wheel-package applications, so it should not be treated as interchangeable with the 17-inch or 18-inch fitments. Its lower profile relative to the other Traverse sizes makes wheel confirmation especially important before replacement. This is the size to pursue when the vehicle is equipped with the correct 20-inch wheels and the matching trim-level fitment.
255/65R18 is a metric radial size where 255 is the nominal section width in millimeters, 65 is the aspect ratio, R means radial construction, and 18 identifies the wheel diameter in inches. For the 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse, this size serves an 18-inch wheel application rather than the 17-inch LS or the 20-inch setup used elsewhere in the range. It fills the middle ground in the Traverse fitment spread, which makes exact trim and wheel verification important during replacement. Choose this size only after confirming that the vehicle is on the proper 18-inch wheel package.
Tire fitment on the 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse changes by sub-model, so trim identification matters before any replacement decision is made. The LS uses one size, the LT can use two different wheel-and-tire packages, and the LTZ uses a larger wheel fitment.
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2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse LS
The 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse LS uses the 245/70R17 radial size on a 17-inch wheel setup. Tire selection here starts with staying in that wheel diameter, then comparing product style, load capability, and intended road use within the correct size.
The 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse LT can use either 255/65R18 or 255/55R20, depending on the wheel package on the vehicle. That makes wheel confirmation essential before replacement, since the two sizes are tied to different rim diameters and should not be chosen by trim name alone.
The 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse LTZ uses the 255/55R20 radial size with a 20-inch wheel application. Replacement planning should focus on confirming that 20-inch setup, then selecting a tire that matches the vehicle's current wheel fitment and intended driving use.
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 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse Tires for Sale
Available product selection centers on the 17-inch Traverse fitment, with a BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 option in 245/70R17. That tire adds an all-terrain series choice, radial construction, and raised white letter sidewall styling for buyers comparing appearance and use character.
Common questions for the 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse usually come down to trim-specific tire size, wheel diameter, and how to choose the right replacement for the vehicle's current setup. Buyers also tend to compare sidewall style, brand, road-use needs, and basic fitment checks before driving.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse?
The 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse uses three tire sizes: 245/70R17, 255/65R18, and 255/55R20. The correct one depends on sub-model and wheel package, with LS using 245/70R17, LT using either 255/65R18 or 255/55R20, and LTZ using 255/55R20.
That means replacement starts with identifying both the trim and the wheel diameter actually on the vehicle. A Traverse with later wheel changes, optional packages, or take-off wheels should be checked carefully so the tire size matches the installed 17-inch, 18-inch, or 20-inch rim.
What size rim does a 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse use?
A 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse can use 17-inch, 18-inch, or 20-inch rims, depending on trim and wheel package. The 245/70R17 size pairs with a 17-inch rim, 255/65R18 pairs with an 18-inch rim, and 255/55R20 pairs with a 20-inch rim.
Rim diameter should be confirmed before ordering any replacement tire because these sizes are not meant for the same wheel. Looking at the wheel itself, the current tire sidewall, and the exact sub-model helps prevent choosing a tire that matches the vehicle name but not the installed wheel package.
Why does the 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse have more than one tire size?
The 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse has more than one tire size because the model range uses different trim-level wheel packages. LS, LT, and LTZ are not all on the same rim diameter, and the LT alone can appear with either an 18-inch or 20-inch tire fitment.
That variation means the vehicle name by itself is not enough for accurate replacement. The most useful check is the actual tire size already mounted on the Traverse, followed by the wheel diameter and trim level, especially on vehicles that may have had wheels changed during previous ownership.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a 245/70R17 tire for a 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse?
Start with the basics: the tire must be 245/70R17 and it must suit the 17-inch wheel setup used on the applicable 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse fitment. Construction, load capacity, rim-width compatibility, and intended use all matter once the correct size has been confirmed.
A buyer comparing options in this size should also consider sidewall appearance and driving environment. An all-terrain tire with raised white letters creates a different look and use profile than a more road-focused replacement, so matching the tire to the Traverse's actual duty cycle is just as important as matching the size.
What sidewall styles are available for 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse tires?
Among the available products for this 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse fitment, the visible sidewall style is RWL, or raised white letter. That sidewall treatment appears on the BFGoodrich all-terrain option in the 245/70R17 size, giving the vehicle a more assertive utility-oriented presentation.
Sidewall style should still come after confirming the correct size and wheel diameter for the particular Traverse. Once fitment is settled, sidewall appearance becomes part of the buying decision, especially for owners who want a more understated look or a more truck-inspired visual character.
What brands offer tires for the 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse?
The currently available product selection for this 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse fitment includes BFGoodrich. The option shown is an All-Terrain T/A KO2 in the 245/70R17 size, combining radial construction with an all-terrain series and raised white letter sidewall styling.
Brand comparison only matters after the correct Traverse size has been established, since this model uses three different tire fitments across its trims. Buyers should compare the available brand choice against wheel compatibility, load requirements, appearance preferences, and how the vehicle is actually driven.
Restoration & Appearance
Does correct tire fitment matter for a 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse restoration?
Correct tire fitment still matters on a 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse, even though this is a modern crossover rather than an older collector car. The right trim-specific size preserves the intended wheel relationship, keeps the vehicle visually proportioned, and avoids mixing 17-inch, 18-inch, and 20-inch fitments carelessly.
Appearance-minded owners should start with the exact size that belongs to the vehicle's wheel package, then consider sidewall style and tire character. A utility-oriented tire can change the Traverse's presentation noticeably, so keeping the fitment aligned with the original wheel diameter is the cleanest starting point.
Which tire should I choose for a period-style 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse?
A period-style approach for a 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse begins with using the tire size tied to the correct trim and wheel package. Since this vehicle is from the modern crossover era, the most authentic-looking choice usually comes from preserving the proper 17-inch, 18-inch, or 20-inch fitment first.
From there, visual character comes from tread style and sidewall treatment rather than from vintage construction choices. Owners who want a more rugged look may lean toward an all-terrain presentation, while a more everyday original-style appearance usually calls for a tire that keeps the SUV's road-oriented stance intact.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse?
Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse. Aftermarket wheels, altered offsets, suspension changes, or non-original ride height can change how a 245/70R17, 255/65R18, or 255/55R20 tire sits in relation to the fenders, steering components, and suspension.
A Traverse that has been changed from its original wheel package should be checked carefully before replacement. Confirm the installed rim diameter and width, then look at clearance during full steering travel and suspension movement so the replacement tire matches the vehicle's current setup, not just its trim name.
What should I inspect before driving a 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse on new tires?
Before driving a 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse on new tires, inspect tire pressure, lug torque, sidewall condition, tread seating, and general wheel condition. It is also smart to confirm that the installed tire size matches the vehicle's wheel diameter and that there is no rubbing at normal ride height.
A short local test drive can reveal vibration, pull, or clearance issues before the vehicle is used at higher speeds or for longer trips. Rechecking inflation and doing a visual walk-around after those first miles helps catch small installation or fitment problems before they become larger ones.
What should I check before a longer drive in a 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse?
Before a longer drive, check that the 2016 Chevrolet Trucks Traverse has the correct tire size for its wheel package and that all tires are evenly inflated and free from cuts, bulges, or visible cracking. Tread condition, valve stems, and signs of slow air loss also deserve attention.
Longer trips put more heat and sustained load into the tire, so basic condition matters just as much as fitment. It also helps to inspect the spare, confirm wheel hardware is secure, and look for any sign that a recently replaced tire is contacting the wheelhouse or suspension under steering input.
