The 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer sits in the modern SUV space where family hauling, long-distance comfort, and light-duty utility all come together in one vehicle. For owners, that means tire choice is less about vintage-style construction and more about matching the right modern radial size to the exact trim and wheel setup already on the truck. This Explorer uses either 245/60R18 or 255/50R20 radial tires, depending on sub-model. The decision centers on confirming whether the vehicle is on 18-inch or 20-inch wheels, then choosing the right tire within that fitment. That matters for everyday road manners, appearance, and maintaining proper clearance on an unmodified or updated vehicle.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer
The 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer uses two primary tire sizes, and the correct one depends on sub-model and wheel diameter. Both are modern radial fitments, but they do not use the same rim size, so the first step is confirming whether the vehicle has 18-inch or 20-inch wheels. Once that is settled, the real choice becomes selecting the right tire within that size for the way the Explorer is driven and equipped.
245/60R18 is a metric radial size in which 245 is the section width in millimeters, 60 is the aspect ratio, R identifies radial construction, and 18 is the rim diameter in inches. On the 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer, this size suits configurations built around an 18-inch wheel and a taller sidewall than the 20-inch fitment. That can matter to owners who want to stay with the original wheel diameter already on the vehicle rather than change the entire setup. It is the size to evaluate when the Explorer is equipped with 18-inch wheels and standard clearances remain the priority.
255/50R20 is a metric radial size where 255 is the section width in millimeters, 50 is the aspect ratio, R denotes radial construction, and 20 is the wheel diameter in inches. On the 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer, this size applies to trims that use a 20-inch wheel and a lower-profile tire than the 18-inch fitment. That makes wheel confirmation especially important before selection, since the tire and rim diameter must match. It is the right size to compare when the vehicle already wears 20-inch wheels or when the exact trim calls for that factory wheel diameter.
Sub-model fitment matters on the 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer because tire size changes with trim and wheel package. Some versions use 18-inch radial tires, others use 20-inch radials, and the XLT can appear with either setup, so identifying the exact sub-model and wheel diameter is the key first step.
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2019 Ford Trucks Explorer Base
The 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer Base uses the 245/60R18 radial fitment. Tire selection for this sub-model starts with keeping the correct 18-inch wheel match, then comparing replacement choices within that size for normal road use and overall vehicle balance.
The 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer Limited uses the 255/50R20 radial fitment. That means replacement shopping should stay focused on tires built for a 20-inch wheel, with attention to preserving the intended fitment and clearance around the existing wheel and suspension setup.
The 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer Platinum uses the 255/50R20 radial size. For this sub-model, the important decision is not between multiple primary sizes, but choosing the right 20-inch replacement tire while confirming the vehicle still carries the correct wheel package.
The 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer Sport uses the 255/50R20 radial tire size. Owners should treat this as a 20-inch wheel fitment first, then compare available replacement tires in that size based on driving use, wheel condition, and whether the vehicle remains stock.
The 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer XLT can use either 245/60R18 or 255/50R20, depending on the wheel setup. For this trim, checking the actual wheel diameter on the vehicle is more important than relying on trim name alone before choosing 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
These FAQs focus on the exact tire sizes used on the 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer, how those sizes vary by sub-model, and what to check for wheel fitment, replacement selection, and safe road use.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer?
A 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer uses either 245/60R18 or 255/50R20 tires. The Base uses 245/60R18, while Limited, Platinum, and Sport use 255/50R20. The XLT can use either size, depending on the wheel setup on the vehicle.
The practical difference is wheel diameter as much as tire size. An 18-inch tire must be paired with an 18-inch wheel, and a 20-inch tire must be paired with a 20-inch wheel. Before ordering replacements, check the trim and confirm the actual wheel size on the Explorer, especially if it is an XLT or has had wheel changes.
What size rim does a 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer use?
The 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer uses either an 18-inch or 20-inch rim, depending on sub-model and wheel package. The 245/60R18 tire mounts on an 18-inch rim, and the 255/50R20 tire mounts on a 20-inch rim.
That rim diameter determines which tire size can be used, so it should be confirmed before focusing on tread pattern or brand. The easiest check is the size molded into the current tire sidewall, then a visual confirmation of the wheel itself. On an XLT, that step matters even more because both 18-inch and 20-inch setups are used.
Do all 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer sub-models use the same tire size?
No, all 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer sub-models do not use the same tire size. Base uses 245/60R18, Limited, Platinum, and Sport use 255/50R20, and XLT may use either 245/60R18 or 255/50R20.
That means trim name alone is helpful, but it is not always enough to choose a tire with confidence. The XLT especially requires a quick check of the actual wheel diameter and current tire markings. If the Explorer has aftermarket wheels or a previous owner changed the setup, use the wheel-and-tire combination on the vehicle as the starting point.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a tire for a 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer?
Start with the correct size for the vehicle: 245/60R18 or 255/50R20. From there, the main considerations are the Explorer’s exact trim, the wheel diameter already on the vehicle, and whether the SUV is used mainly for commuting, family travel, or mixed seasonal driving.
A good selection process also includes checking that the wheels are the original diameter, especially on an XLT that may use either setup. Tire choice should support the vehicle’s intended road use without drifting away from the proper fitment. Load capability, overall tire condition, and clearance around the wheel wells are all worth reviewing before installation.
How do I choose between the available 245/60R18 and 255/50R20 tires for a 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer?
The choice between 245/60R18 and 255/50R20 is not a matter of preference alone, because each size belongs to a different wheel diameter. A 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer must use the size that matches its current 18-inch or 20-inch wheels and its trim-specific fitment.
Once the correct size is confirmed, compare tires within that size rather than across both sizes. That keeps the replacement process focused on compatibility first. Owners should also pay attention to whether the vehicle remains stock, since changes in wheels or suspension can affect clearance and can make the original trim-based assumption less reliable.
What rim-fitment details should I compare when choosing 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer tires?
The most important rim-fitment detail is diameter. A 245/60R18 tire requires an 18-inch wheel, while a 255/50R20 requires a 20-inch wheel. Those two sizes are not interchangeable across the same rim because the bead seat diameter is different.
Wheel width and overall vehicle setup also matter when replacing tires, particularly if the Explorer has aftermarket wheels. A tire that matches the sidewall size still needs to work with the actual wheel and the available clearance at full steering lock and suspension travel. That is why confirming the wheel package should come before comparing replacement options.
Restoration & Appearance
Does correct tire fitment matter for the appearance of a 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer?
Yes, correct tire fitment has a strong effect on how a 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer sits and looks. The 245/60R18 and 255/50R20 sizes create different visual proportions because they pair with different wheel diameters and different sidewall heights.
Using the intended size helps preserve the overall stance the vehicle was built around. Going away from the proper wheel-and-tire combination can change the relationship between wheel opening, sidewall, and wheel face in a way that looks out of place. Owners trying to keep a clean, original-style presentation should start by matching the trim and wheel diameter correctly.
How does tire size affect the look of a 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer?
Tire size changes the appearance of a 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer because each size works with a different wheel diameter and sidewall profile. The 245/60R18 setup carries more sidewall, while the 255/50R20 setup uses a larger wheel and a shorter sidewall.
That difference matters when maintaining the vehicle’s intended trim-level presentation. A replacement tire should complement the wheel package already on the Explorer rather than forcing a mismatch between rim diameter and tire profile. Even on a practical SUV, staying with the correct fitment keeps the stance more balanced and avoids an altered look caused by the wrong size.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer?
Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer. Aftermarket wheels, suspension changes, lowering, spacers, or body alterations can change the amount of room available for either the 245/60R18 or 255/50R20 fitment.
That is why a modified Explorer should be checked by its actual wheel diameter and installed setup rather than trim name alone. Steering clearance, fender clearance, and suspension travel all matter once the vehicle moves away from stock form. Even when the sidewall shows one of the original sizes, wheel width and offset can still influence whether the combination remains appropriate.
What should I inspect before driving a 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer on new tires?
Before driving a 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer on new tires, inspect the wheel diameter match, tire pressure, lug torque, and visible clearance around the fenders and suspension. It is also smart to look over the wheels for bends or damage and make sure the replacement size matches the intended trim setup.
A short test drive should include listening for rubbing and checking that the vehicle tracks normally. After that, recheck pressure and take another look at the sidewalls and inner clearances. On a vehicle that has seen wheel swaps or suspension work, those extra checks help catch fitment problems before they turn into uneven wear or drivability issues.
How often should tires on a 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer be inspected?
Tires on a 2019 Ford Trucks Explorer should be inspected regularly, not just when they look low on air. A quick visual check every few weeks and a closer inspection before longer drives helps catch uneven wear, cuts, bulges, embedded debris, and pressure loss before they become larger problems.
Low-use vehicles still need attention because time, temperature changes, and storage conditions can affect tire condition even when mileage stays low. Looking at both the tread and sidewalls is important, especially if the Explorer sits for extended periods. Keeping pressure correct and watching for aging or irregular wear helps the tires deliver the fitment and road behavior the vehicle was designed around.
