The tire market is crowded, with more models available each year as technology develops more options. Buying the right tires for your Jeep can be complicated. Here are our best tips for choosing tires to fit your Jeep and the way you drive. Whether you’re choosing off road tires or more generic all-terrain tires, you want tires that fit your needs.
Tip #1 – Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for your Jeep. Weigh the Jeep if you’ve made a lot of modifications to make sure your tires can handle the load.
Types Of Tires
The stock tires on most Jeeps are all-season tires designed for performance in all types of weather and road conditions. But there are many different tires that fit your Wrangler. All-terrain tires are good for driving on the road and for the occasional off-road excursion. If your Wrangler is more of a workhorse and deals with harsher terrain, you may want to explore mud terrain tires. If you drive in an area with a lot of winter elements, it might be better to go with a set of winter tires.
Tip #2 – Look at tire options before selecting a brand.
Tip #3 – Think about your budget, but consider a quality tire an investment in safety and performance.
Know What Tire Fits You
Jeep tires come in different sizes. Larger tires tend to be more effective for off-road driving. Standard sizing for most Jeeps is between 15 to 17 inches. Tires that are measured in inches have a measurement that reads 33x12.50R15. Here’s how to understand those numbers:
- 33 refers to the diameter of the tire.
- 50 refers to the width of the tire.
- The letter refers to a type of tire, radial or bias, for example.
- 15 refers to the rim’s diameter.
For some tires, your Jeep may require modifications, such as a lift kit. Larger tires may negatively impact fuel efficiency while giving you better performance while off-roading, though.
Keep Tires Inflated Properly
For regular driving on highways, your tires need to have the correct PSI to get the best fuel economy and to ride safely. Many Jeep owners let air out of the tires when they’re off-roading to improve traction. A tire with lower pressure grips the terrain better. When you’re driving slower, it’s okay to have low air pressure in the tire, but at faster speeds, those same tires may easily blow-out.
Tip #4 – Keep the right accessories on hand for the way you use your Jeep.
Watch Tire Health
Inspect tires each month to watch for worn tread patterns or cracks in the sidewall to keep your tires safe. Know the different bolt patterns. 8x6.5 wheels are common for Jeeps. Eight is the number of studs and 6.5 is the bolt circle measurement. Watch the tire alignment and keep your brakes in peak operating condition.
Tip #5 – Buy extra rims to make changing tires easier. Keep the all-terrain set on the Jeep, but when you want to do some heavy-duty off-roading, swap out the ATs for a mud terrain set.
Shop for tires and other accessories for your Jeep.