The 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer sits in the modern three-row SUV market as a family hauler with a truck-branded identity and a wide range of trim personalities, from practical daily-driver duty to more upscale street presence. That matters when choosing tires, because this Explorer uses two different primary radial sizes depending on trim and wheel package: 245/60R18 or 255/50R20. The real decision is less about vintage construction and more about confirming the exact sub-model, wheel diameter, and the look and ride profile tied to each size. On an SUV like this, tire selection should match the actual wheel setup, intended road use, and any changes made since it left stock form.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer
The 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer uses two primary tire sizes, and the correct choice depends first on the exact sub-model and wheel diameter. Both sizes are radial fitments, but one uses an 18-inch rim while the other uses a 20-inch rim, so confirming the wheels currently on the vehicle is the first step before comparing tire options.
245/60R18 is a metric radial size in which 245 identifies the nominal section width in millimeters, 60 is the aspect ratio, R indicates radial construction, and 18 is the rim diameter in inches. On the 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer, this size serves trims that use an 18-inch wheel package rather than the larger 20-inch setup. Its proportions reflect a modern SUV sizing format with a substantial sidewall compared with lower-profile alternatives. This is the size to evaluate when the Explorer is equipped with 18-inch wheels and the goal is to stay with the original wheel diameter.
255/50R20 is a metric radial size where 255 gives the nominal section width in millimeters, 50 is the aspect ratio, R marks radial construction, and 20 identifies the wheel diameter in inches. On the 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer, this size belongs to trims and wheel packages using the larger 20-inch rim. Compared with the 18-inch fitment, it pairs a wider tread section with a lower-profile sidewall in a modern SUV format. It should be chosen only after confirming that the vehicle is running the 20-inch wheel setup tied to this size.
Tire fitment on the 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer varies by sub-model and, in the case of the XLT, by wheel package. Checking the trim name and confirming whether the vehicle has 18-inch or 20-inch wheels will narrow the choice quickly and prevent ordering the wrong size.
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2018 Ford Trucks Explorer Base
The 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer Base uses the 245/60R18 radial size. For this trim, the main tire decision centers on staying with the correct 18-inch fitment and confirming that the wheels on the vehicle have not been changed from the original size range.
The 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer Limited uses the 255/50R20 radial size. Tire selection here starts with the 20-inch wheel diameter, then moves to comparing choices that preserve the proper size relationship for the trim's wheel package.
The 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer Platinum uses the 255/50R20 radial size. That makes wheel confirmation especially important, since a 20-inch fitment requires a different tire than Explorers equipped with the 18-inch package.
The 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer Sport uses the 255/50R20 radial size. Choosing tires for this trim begins with the larger 20-inch fitment and then focuses on matching the vehicle's current wheel setup and intended street use.
The 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer XLT can use either 245/60R18 or 255/50R20, depending on the wheel package on the vehicle. This trim needs the most careful check, because the tire size cannot be chosen by trim name alone without verifying rim diameter first.
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
Owners shopping for 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer tires usually need to confirm trim, wheel diameter, and whether the vehicle uses 245/60R18 or 255/50R20. The questions below focus on fitment, wheel compatibility, tire selection, and practical checks before road use.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer?
A 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer uses either 245/60R18 or 255/50R20, depending on the sub-model and wheel package. Both are radial sizes, but they are not tied to the same rim diameter. Base models use 245/60R18, while Limited, Platinum, and Sport use 255/50R20. XLT models can use either size.
The practical step is to confirm the exact trim and then verify the wheels currently on the vehicle. An Explorer that has had wheel changes since new may no longer match the original trim-based fitment, so checking the tire sidewall and wheel diameter before replacement helps prevent a mismatch.
What size rim does a 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer use?
The 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer uses either an 18-inch rim or a 20-inch rim, depending on the tire size fitted to the vehicle. The 245/60R18 tire is built for an 18-inch wheel, while the 255/50R20 tire is built for a 20-inch wheel. Rim diameter is part of the tire size itself.
That makes wheel confirmation the first fitment check before choosing replacement tires. The trim name is helpful, but the actual wheel on the vehicle matters more, especially if a previous owner changed wheels or upgraded packages. Reading the current tire sidewall is usually the quickest way to confirm the correct rim diameter.
Why does the 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer have more than one tire size?
The 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer has more than one tire size because different sub-models and wheel packages use different wheel diameters. Some versions use 245/60R18 on 18-inch rims, while others use 255/50R20 on 20-inch rims. The XLT can be found with either size, depending on how it was equipped.
That means tire selection is configuration-specific rather than universal across the entire model line. A buyer should not assume that every Explorer from this model year uses the same size simply because the body style looks the same. Trim level and actual wheel diameter should be matched before comparing replacement options.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a 245/60R18 tire for a 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer?
Start by confirming that the Explorer actually uses 245/60R18, since this size is tied to 18-inch wheels and applies to the Base model and some XLT configurations. The key fitment points are the correct size code, radial construction, and the wheel diameter already on the vehicle.
Beyond that, think about how the SUV is used day to day. A family-driven Explorer may call for a different tire emphasis than one used mostly for commuting or longer highway trips. It is also worth checking whether the vehicle is still on stock wheels, because an aftermarket wheel change can alter the tire choice entirely.
What should I consider when choosing a 255/50R20 tire for a 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer?
The first consideration is making sure the Explorer is equipped with 20-inch wheels, since 255/50R20 belongs to Limited, Platinum, Sport, and some XLT configurations. This is a radial size with a wider section and lower profile than the 18-inch fitment, so selecting it starts with the actual wheel package.
From there, compare tires within the correct size based on intended road use and the vehicle's current setup. A 20-inch fitment leaves less room for guessing, so wheel condition, suspension health, and any non-stock modifications should be looked over before replacement. Matching the tire to the wheel diameter remains the non-negotiable step.
How do I choose between the available tire sizes for a 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer?
The choice is not based on preference alone, because the 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer's two sizes are tied to different wheel diameters. A vehicle with 18-inch wheels takes 245/60R18, while a vehicle with 20-inch wheels takes 255/50R20. The XLT is the trim most likely to require an extra check.
A quick look at the current tire sidewall or wheel diameter usually answers the question faster than relying on appearance. Once the correct size is confirmed, then it makes sense to compare replacement tires within that size. Picking between the two size codes without checking the wheels can create an immediate fitment problem.
Restoration & Appearance
Does correct tire fitment matter for a 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer restoration or clean stock-style rebuild?
Correct tire fitment still matters on a 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer, even though this is a modern SUV rather than a vintage restoration project. Using the proper 245/60R18 or 255/50R20 size helps preserve the intended relationship between wheel diameter, sidewall profile, and the vehicle's overall stance.
For a clean stock-style rebuild, the best starting point is matching the tire size to the actual trim and wheel package on the vehicle. If exact presentation matters, compare the current setup against factory reference material, window-sticker information, or model-specific enthusiast resources before making a visible change in wheel or tire profile.
How does tire size affect the appearance of a 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer?
Tire size has a clear effect on the appearance of a 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer because 245/60R18 and 255/50R20 create different visual proportions. The 18-inch fitment carries more sidewall, while the 20-inch fitment presents a larger wheel with a shorter sidewall. Both remain modern radial SUV sizes.
That visual difference is one reason wheel confirmation matters before replacing tires or trying to return the vehicle to a stock-style look. An Explorer equipped with the wrong diameter tire for its wheels will look off immediately, and changing wheel packages can alter the character of the vehicle even when the body and trim remain unchanged.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer?
Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer. Wheel swaps, suspension changes, lowering, spacers, or body alterations can all change the clearance relationship that originally worked with 245/60R18 or 255/50R20. Even when the size on paper looks familiar, the vehicle may no longer match its stock setup.
That is why the current configuration matters more than trim badge alone on a modified SUV. Check wheel diameter, wheel width, and tire-to-body clearance before ordering replacements. A close inspection during full steering lock and normal ride height can reveal issues that are easy to miss when looking only at the existing size code.
What should I inspect before driving a 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer on new tires?
Before driving a 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer on new tires, inspect the wheel size, lug hardware, inflation pressure, and the basic condition of the suspension and steering components. It is also smart to confirm that the new tires match the vehicle's actual 18-inch or 20-inch wheel package and clear the body properly.
A short follow-up check after the first drive is just as useful. Recheck pressure, look for any rubbing marks, and make sure the vehicle tracks normally without vibration. On an SUV that may have seen curb contact or prior wheel changes, that extra inspection helps catch mounting or fitment issues before they become bigger problems.
How often should tires on a 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer be inspected?
Tires on a 2018 Ford Trucks Explorer should be inspected regularly rather than only at replacement time. Routine checks should include tread condition, uneven wear, visible cuts, sidewall damage, bulges, and air loss. Because this Explorer can use either 18-inch or 20-inch fitments, confirming that all four tires match the intended setup is also worthwhile.
A monthly visual inspection is a sensible habit, with extra attention before longer highway trips or after striking potholes and curbs. Low-use vehicles still need checks, since age and storage conditions can affect tire condition even when tread looks acceptable. Catching wear or damage early helps protect both ride quality and fitment confidence.
