The 2017 Lincoln lineup paired modern luxury with two very different personalities: the Continental as a full-size flagship sedan and the MKZ as a sleeker midsize entry with a more contemporary sport-luxury feel. That matters when choosing tires, because 2017 Lincoln models do not share one common fitment across the range. Five radial sizes appear across two models, with the Continental using three distinct sizes and the MKZ using two of its own, spread across 18-, 19-, and 20-inch rims. Before choosing a tire for a 2017 Lincoln, confirm the exact model first, then match the correct rim diameter and size before comparing brand, sidewall style, and driving emphasis.
Which Tire Size Is Right for Your 2017 Lincoln
Five tire sizes are used across 2017 Lincoln vehicles, and they vary by model rather than being shared across the full range. Every size here is a radial, so the main decision is confirming whether your Continental or MKZ uses an 18-, 19-, or 20-inch wheel and then choosing the correct size for that rim diameter. Understanding that distinction before choosing a product saves time and helps ensure the right match.
Year(s): 2017|Fit(s): Continental|Construction: Radial|Rim: 20 in
The 245/40R20 is a metric radial size with a 245-millimeter section width, a 40-series aspect ratio, and fitment for a 20-inch wheel. This size is specific to the 2017 Lincoln Continental, and it is available from BFGoodrich, Nitto, and Pro-Trac in Blackwall and RWL sidewall styles; speed ratings vary by product, including W at 112 mph and Y at 186+ mph. Buyers who want to stay with the Continental's 20-inch fitment can use this size as the correct starting point, then choose among the available product personalities and sidewall appearance.
Year(s): 2017|Fit(s): Continental|Construction: Radial|Rim: 18 in
The 235/50R18 is a metric radial size that measures 235 millimeters in section width, uses a 50-series aspect ratio, and mounts on an 18-inch wheel. This size is specific to the 2017 Lincoln Continental, with BFGoodrich and Nitto options in Blackwall form; the available products carry W speed ratings, which correspond to 168 mph. It suits Continental owners who need the 18-inch fitment used on their car and want a straightforward modern radial choice without changing wheel diameter.
Year(s): 2017|Fit(s): Continental|Construction: Radial|Rim: 19-in rim
The 255/45R19 is a metric radial size with a 255-millimeter section width, a 45-series profile, and fitment for a 19-inch wheel. This size is specific to the 2017 Lincoln Continental and serves owners whose cars came with the larger-width 19-inch package. Confirm the actual wheel on the car before ordering, since Continental fitment spans three separate rim diameters across the model year.
Year(s): 2017|Fit(s): MKZ|Construction: Radial|Rim: 19 in
The 245/40R19 is a metric radial size with a 245-millimeter section width, a 40-series aspect ratio, and a 19-inch rim diameter. This size is specific to the 2017 Lincoln MKZ, and it is available from BFGoodrich in Blackwall styling with speed ratings that vary by product, including W at 168 mph and Y at 186+ mph. It is the correct path for MKZ owners running the 19-inch wheel package and comparing tire behavior within the same basic size.
Year(s): 2017|Fit(s): MKZ|Construction: Radial|Rim: 18 in
The 245/45R18 is a metric radial size with a 245-millimeter section width, a 45-series aspect ratio, and fitment for an 18-inch wheel. This size is specific to the 2017 Lincoln MKZ and is available from BFGoodrich and Nitto in Blackwall form; speed ratings vary by product, including W at 168 mph and Y at 186+ mph. MKZ owners should choose this size when their car carries the 18-inch setup, then confirm the product's load and speed marking against how the car will be used.
Two 2017 Lincoln models are covered here: the Continental and the MKZ. Tire size varies by model, so year and make alone are not enough for a confident choice; the first step is identifying which Lincoln you have and which wheel diameter it uses. Select a model below for model-specific fitment history and products.
2017 Lincoln Continental
The 2017 Lincoln Continental marked the return of one of Lincoln's most storied nameplates, positioned as the brand's full-size flagship with a strong emphasis on comfort, presence, and upscale road manners. Continental fitment spans 18-, 19-, and 20-inch wheels, so wheel diameter is the key detail to verify before narrowing down the correct tire size.
The 2017 Lincoln MKZ served as Lincoln's midsize luxury sedan, blending a more streamlined silhouette with a sport-luxury tone that set it apart from the larger Continental. MKZ tire fitment centers on 18- and 19-inch wheels, making the exact wheel package the deciding factor before choosing a tire.
Sixteen products are available across five tire sizes for 2017 Lincoln vehicles. The 245/40R20 offers four radial choices from BFGoodrich, Nitto, and Pro-Trac in Blackwall and RWL styles; 235/50R18 has four radial options from BFGoodrich and Nitto in Blackwall; 245/40R19 has three radial BFGoodrich Blackwall choices; 245/45R18 has four radial options from BFGoodrich and Nitto in Blackwall. Confirm the exact size first, then compare speed rating and sidewall style within that fitment.
These FAQs focus on the five radial sizes used across the 2017 Lincoln Continental and MKZ, including model-specific fitment, 18- through 20-inch wheel differences, available sidewall styles, and the care considerations that matter on modern luxury cars driven seasonally or sparingly.
Size Basics & Fitment
What tire sizes fit 2017 Lincoln vehicles?
2017 Lincoln vehicles use five sizes across two models. The Continental uses 235/50R18, 255/45R19, and 245/40R20, while the MKZ uses 245/45R18 and 245/40R19. Rim diameters therefore span 18, 19, and 20 inches, and the rim-width ranges visible in available products run from 6.5-8.5 inches for 235/50R18, 7.5-9.0 inches for 245/45R18, and 8.0-9.5 inches for both 245/40R19 and 245/40R20.
That means a 2017 Lincoln owner should start with the exact model and wheel diameter already on the car, not just the year and make. Even within the Continental alone, tire size changes with the wheel package, so an 18-inch car, a 19-inch car, and a 20-inch car do not use the same tire. Checking the placard, current tire sidewall, and actual wheel diameter before ordering is the cleanest way to avoid a mismatch.
What does 245/40R20 mean on a 2017 Lincoln tire?
On a 2017 Lincoln, 245/40R20 is a metric radial size. The 245 is the section width in millimeters, the 40 is the aspect ratio, meaning the sidewall height is 40 percent of the section width, the R identifies radial construction, and the 20 is the wheel diameter in inches. On 2017 Lincoln applications, this size belongs to the Continental.
That code matters because it identifies more than width alone. A 245/40R20 fits a 20-inch wheel and carries a shorter sidewall than the 18-inch and 19-inch Continental alternatives, so it should only be chosen when the car is equipped for that size. Once the size is confirmed, the next comparison points are brand, sidewall appearance, speed rating, and rim-width compatibility for the wheel you already have.
Do all 2017 Lincoln models use the same tire size?
No. The 2017 Lincoln Continental and 2017 Lincoln MKZ use different tire sizes, and neither model shares one universal fitment across the year. Continental applications span 235/50R18, 255/45R19, and 245/40R20, while MKZ applications use 245/45R18 and 245/40R19. Every size is radial, but the wheel diameter and overall size are model-specific.
That makes model identification essential before comparing tires. A buyer who knows only that they have a 2017 Lincoln still has too broad a starting point, because the tire choice changes with both model and wheel package. If the car has aftermarket wheels or if the current tires are not original to the vehicle, measure the wheel diameter and compare the sidewall code to the vehicle placard before choosing a replacement.
Buying the Right Tire
What sidewall styles are available for 2017 Lincoln tires?
Most 2017 Lincoln tire sizes are available in Blackwall form, which suits the modern luxury character of both the Continental and MKZ. The one visible sidewall variation is in 245/40R20 for the Continental, where both Blackwall and raised white letter options appear. The 235/50R18, 245/40R19, and 245/45R18 choices remain Blackwall-focused.
For buyers who want the cleanest factory-like appearance on a late-model Lincoln, Blackwall is usually the natural visual fit. A raised white letter sidewall pushes the look in a more performance-oriented direction and changes the car's presentation more than its fitment. Sidewall style should be chosen after the correct size is locked in, especially on a car whose original personality leaned toward understated luxury rather than overt muscle-car styling.
What brands make tires for 2017 Lincoln vehicles?
2017 Lincoln tire coverage here comes from BFGoodrich, Nitto, and Pro-Trac, depending on size. The 245/40R20 Continental size is available from BFGoodrich, Nitto, and Pro-Trac. The 235/50R18 Continental size and 245/45R18 MKZ size are available from BFGoodrich and Nitto, while the 245/40R19 MKZ size is covered by BFGoodrich.
Brand choice becomes a finer point after the size is confirmed. Some owners will prefer to stay within one brand family across multiple vehicles, while others will compare by sidewall appearance, speed rating, or load marking inside the same size. Since the Continental and MKZ do not share all sizes, a brand that works for one 2017 Lincoln may not be the available option for another wheel package or model.
What is the difference between BFGoodrich g-Force Comp 2 A/S and Nitto NT555 G2 for the 2017 Lincoln?
On the 2017 Lincoln sizes where both appear, BFGoodrich g-Force Comp 2 A/S and Nitto NT555 G2 share the same basic radial fitment but differ in their exact sizing marks, weights, and load details. In 235/50R18, the BFGoodrich carries a 97W marking while the Nitto uses an XL 101W marking with a 1,819-pound load figure at 50 psi. In 245/45R18, the BFGoodrich uses 96W while the Nitto uses XL 100W with a 1,764-pound load figure at 50 psi.
That means the comparison is not simply brand against brand; it should be made inside the exact size your Continental or MKZ requires. Buyers who want to compare within one fitment should look at the sidewall marking, any XL designation, weight, and rim-width range alongside the way the car is driven. It is smart to match the product's load and speed marking to the vehicle placard and the service expectations for the car.
Fitting & Setup
What rim width do 2017 Lincoln tires require?
Rim-width guidance varies by size on 2017 Lincoln applications. The 235/50R18 products suit rims from 6.5 to 8.5 inches wide, while 245/45R18 products suit rims from 7.5 to 9.0 inches. The 245/40R19 and 245/40R20 products fit rims from 8.0 to 9.5 inches. Those ranges are tied to the tire size itself, not to the Lincoln nameplate in general.
That is why wheel verification matters before replacing tires on a Continental or MKZ, especially if the car has changed hands or has aftermarket wheels. A tire may have the correct diameter but still want a different wheel width than what is on the car. If you are near the edge of a size's approved rim-width range, double-check the exact wheel width before settling on a specific tire model.
Can the original 2017 Lincoln wheels be used with all tire sizes?
No single 2017 Lincoln wheel works across all five sizes, because the sizes are split among 18-, 19-, and 20-inch rim diameters. A Continental may use 18-, 19-, or 20-inch wheels depending on fitment, while the MKZ uses 18- or 19-inch wheels. Tire diameter code and wheel diameter must always match: an 18-inch tire goes on an 18-inch wheel, a 19-inch tire on a 19-inch wheel, and a 20-inch tire on a 20-inch wheel.
That means original wheels can be reused only within the tire sizes meant for that same rim diameter and compatible width range. If a 2017 Lincoln has stayed on its factory wheel package, replacement is straightforward once the existing size is confirmed. If the car has different wheels from stock, treat the current wheel as the starting point and confirm width as well as diameter before moving ahead.
Maintenance, Storage & Longevity
How should I store a 2017 Lincoln when the tires are fitted?
A 2017 Lincoln that sits for long periods should be stored away from direct sunlight, standing moisture, and ozone-producing equipment such as electric motors, compressors, and battery chargers. Keep the tires properly inflated, move the car occasionally to change the contact patch, and use a clean, dry parking surface. Since every tire size here is radial, storage flat-spotting risk is generally lower than with vintage bias-ply tires, but long static periods can still harden the ride temporarily.
Practical storage habits help preserve both appearance and service life, especially on luxury cars that may be used seasonally rather than daily. If the car will be parked for an extended stretch, inspect the sidewalls before the next drive and bring pressures back to the intended setting while the tires are cold. Owners who maintain a spare should give it the same care, since a neglected spare often becomes the weak point on an otherwise well-kept car.
How long do tires on a 2017 Lincoln typically last?
Tires on a 2017 Lincoln should be judged by age as much as by tread depth, particularly on lower-mileage luxury cars. A good rule is to begin evaluating tires carefully once they are around five to seven years old and to treat about ten years as a serious replacement point regardless of remaining tread. The DOT date code on the sidewall identifies the week and year of manufacture.
That age-based approach matters because many Continental and MKZ cars do not accumulate miles quickly enough to wear tires out in the usual way. A tire can still look usable in the tread and yet be aging in the sidewall, internal structure, or rubber compound. If a 2017 Lincoln is driven mostly on weekends or stored through parts of the year, let time and condition guide replacement decisions more than mileage alone.
How often should tires on a 2017 Lincoln be inspected?
Tires on a 2017 Lincoln deserve a quick inspection before every drive and a more thorough look before any longer trip. Check for sidewall cracking, punctures, bulges, uneven wear, and pressure loss, and compare all four tires for consistency. Because these sizes are low-profile radials on larger wheels, curb damage and hidden inner-sidewall issues are worth watching closely.
Regular inspection is especially important on a car that spends time parked, since age-related issues often reveal themselves only after the vehicle returns to use. Before an extended outing, inspect the spare as well and make sure inflation pressure is appropriate for the tire actually fitted on the car. Catching a damaged tire early is far easier than dealing with vibration, poor wear, or a roadside problem after the trip has started.
Restoration & Authenticity
What tires were originally fitted to the 2017 Lincoln Continental?
A 2017 Lincoln Continental was originally a radial-tire car, not a bias-ply-era design, and its factory fitment family falls within the modern metric radial sizes used on the model: 235/50R18, 255/45R19, and 245/40R20 depending on wheel package. The correct original-style starting point is therefore the exact size and wheel diameter the car was built with, rather than a vintage construction debate common to older collector vehicles.
For an owner interested in authenticity, the most important details are matching the original wheel diameter, staying with the proper size code, and choosing a sidewall appearance that suits the car's factory presentation. Because late-model luxury sedans could vary by package, it is wise to confirm against the vehicle placard and factory paperwork. Marque specialists and Lincoln enthusiast groups are helpful when a car's wheel history is unclear.
Does correct tire fitment matter for showing a 2017 Lincoln?
Yes, correct tire fitment matters when showing a 2017 Lincoln, even though the standards differ from those used for mid-century concours cars. Judges and knowledgeable enthusiasts will notice if the tire size does not match the car's intended wheel package, if the sidewall appearance looks out of character, or if the stance is altered by an obviously incorrect fitment. On a late-model Lincoln, accuracy is usually about proper size, proper wheel diameter, and an appropriate visual presentation.
That means a Blackwall radial in the correct metric size will usually align more naturally with the car's original look than a more aggressive sidewall treatment chosen only for appearance. Owners preparing for marque events should verify the placard size and any package-specific wheel details before mounting a new set. Event-specific judging expectations can vary, so Lincoln clubs and show organizers are still the best final reference.
What is the difference between BFGoodrich g-Force Sport Comp 2 and BFGoodrich g-Force Phenom T/A for the 2017 Lincoln?
For 2017 Lincoln fitments where both exist, BFGoodrich g-Force Sport Comp 2 and g-Force Phenom T/A share the same basic size but differ in some of their detailed markings and specs. In 235/50R18, the Sport Comp 2 appears as 97W with a 1,609-pound load figure at 51 psi, while the Phenom T/A appears as 101W with a 1,819-pound load figure at 50 psi. In 245/40R19, the Sport Comp 2 uses 98W while the Phenom T/A uses 98Y, and in 245/45R18 the Sport Comp 2 uses 96W while the Phenom T/A uses 100Y.
For a late-model Lincoln judged on correctness, the shared size matters more than the product family name, but those details still affect how closely a tire matches the owner's priorities. Comparing sidewall marking, speed symbol, load figure, and weight can help narrow the choice inside one approved size. If the goal is a tidy factory-like presentation, keep the visual choice conservative and let the exact fitment stay true to the car's original wheel package.
Safety & Road Use
Are 2017 Lincoln tires safe for highway driving?
Yes, the radial sizes used on 2017 Lincoln vehicles are suitable for highway driving when they are the correct size, in sound condition, and used within their service limits. The available products carry W and Y speed ratings depending on size and tire model, with W corresponding to 168 mph and Y corresponding to 186+ mph. Those ratings are well beyond normal legal highway speeds in the United States.
In real use, the condition of the tire and the condition of the car matter more than the headline speed symbol alone. Proper inflation, even wear, and freedom from impact damage are essential on larger-diameter, lower-profile luxury-sedan tires. On a 2017 Lincoln, normal highway confidence also depends on alignment, suspension condition, and braking health, so the tire should be treated as one part of a complete roadworthiness check.
What inflation pressure should I use for 2017 Lincoln tires?
Inflation pressure for a 2017 Lincoln should follow the vehicle placard or owner's manual for the exact model and wheel package, then be checked against the tire's own sidewall and manufacturer guidance. Some available products also include rated load-and-pressure figures: for example, 245/40R20 appears at 1,709 pounds at 50 psi, 235/50R18 reaches up to 1,819 pounds at 50 psi or 1,609 pounds at 51 psi depending on product, 245/40R19 appears at 1,653 pounds at 50 psi, and 245/45R18 reaches up to 1,764 pounds at 50 psi or 1,565 pounds at 51 psi depending on product.
Those numbers are tire ratings, not universal inflation instructions for every 2017 Lincoln. The correct day-to-day pressure depends on the specific car and tire combination, so it should not be transferred from one size to another or from a Continental to an MKZ without checking the placard. Always set pressures when the tires are cold, then recheck after seasonal temperature swings or after the car has been parked for a long period.
What should I check before taking a 2017 Lincoln on a longer drive?
Before a longer drive in a 2017 Lincoln, inspect each tire for cracking, cuts, punctures, bulges, and uneven tread wear, and verify cold inflation pressure. Confirm that the size on the car matches the wheel diameter and that the tires are not aging out by date code. If the car has a spare, inspect that as well, because a neglected spare can undermine an otherwise careful pre-trip plan.
A tire check should be part of a broader once-over on any luxury car that may not be driven every day. Road-trip preparation should also include a quick look at brakes, fluid levels, battery condition, and suspension behavior, since those systems all affect how the car manages speed, weight, and distance. A few minutes of inspection before departure is far more valuable than discovering a vibration, low tire, or weather-checked sidewall after the trip is underway.