There's nothing better than a Jeep JK with a lifted suspension and big tires. It gives off that aggressive look and can improve the curb appeal of your Jeep when it's done tastefully. However, you need to find a healthy balance. Tires that are too big won't just look goofy – they can rub against the suspension or body and cause other problems. What's more, you need to consider your suspension when choosing tires larger than originally equipped. Lifting your Jeep JK typically requires larger wheels and tires, or the build might look silly.
While finding the biggest tires you can find is a good idea, you need to plan before you start shopping, or you'll end up with the wrong fit. The good news is that we're here to help. Read on to learn more.
What Is A Jeep Wrangler JK?
The Jeep Wrangler JK is an iconic off-road vehicle renowned for its rugged capability and versatile design. Introduced by Jeep in 2007 and finishing the generation 10 years later, the Wrangler JK marked the beginning of the JK generation, succeeding the TJ model. Characterized by its boxy silhouette, removable doors, and fold-down windshield, the Wrangler JK embodies the spirit of adventure and exploration. It is available in both two-door and four-door configurations, offering ample space for passengers and cargo alike. Underneath its robust exterior lies a robust chassis built for off-road challenges, featuring solid axles, durable suspension components, and available four-wheel drive systems tailored for various terrain types. Powered by potent engines, including the dependable 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, the Wrangler JK delivers impressive performance both on and off the beaten path. Its iconic design, coupled with its unmatched off-road prowess, has solidified the Wrangler JK's status as a beloved classic among enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
How To Size Tires For A Jeep JK
Determining the current size tires on your Jeep JK is easy when you know where to look; it all comes down to reading the sidewall to see what tires your vehicle came with from the factory. The sidewall is the side of the tire, and it will have a few numbers and letters written on it. The numbers and letters on the sidewall refer to the wheel's diameter, height, and general size.
The first number you'll see on the sidewall refers to the width across the top of the tire, which is written in millimeters, which is why it may be large. Next, you'll find the aspect ratio, which gives you the height of the tire profile (displayed as a percentage of the width). The last number in the sequence gives you the diameter of the wheel in inches.
An example of what you can expect to find on your Jeep Wrangler JK is a tire that's 245/75R16, which is the standard tire for JKs with 16-inch wheels. 17-inch tires have a different size reading, which is 245/75R/17. The larger the first number, the wider it will be. The larger the second number, the "thicker" the tire will look from the side, while a small second number is typically found on sports cars with "thin" tire profiles. Each tire size will have a specific number on the sidewall, so always check before purchasing new tires. Also, you can check your owner's manual for more information.
When To Replace Your Jeep JK Tires
Replacing the tires on your Jeep Wrangler JK should be done when they reach 2/32 inches of remaining tread depth or sooner. While you can use 2/32 inches and 4/32 inches of tread depth, these tires won't last long on trails or rough terrain. For this reason, we recommend replacing Jeep Wrangler JK tires once they drop below 6/32 inches of tread depth remaining if you plan on doing any off-road activities.
Typically, tires reach their minimum tread depth after 20,000 to 50,000 miles, depending on how you drive. Also, if you plan on off-roading, expect to change them sooner than if you drive on pavement.
Aside from checking the tread depth and mileage on your tires, you can also look for symptoms of tire wear. These include poor handling, hydroplaning, and issues holding the proper tire pressure.
What's The Biggest Size Tires That Will Fit On A Stock Jeep Wrangler JK?
The biggest size tires that will fit on a stock Jeep Wrangler JK vary based on the Jeep model. Some Jeep JKs may have multiple trim levels with different suspension options and factory tire sizes. For example, the biggest tire that fits on a stock Jeep Wrangler JK that's not a Rubicon is about 33 inches. The Rubicon models come with springs that are different from those of the Sport or Sahara models so that they can fit larger tires. You can usually fit 35-inch tires on Jeep Wrangler JK Rubicon models if you don't plan on driving off-road. If you plan on hitting the trails, limit the size to 30 inches for base models and 32 inches for Rubicon models. Below are possible options for different tires sizes depending on the Jeep Wrangler JK trim level.
Sport And Sport S
The Jeep Wrangler JK's base model is the Sport and Sport S. They feature 16-inch or 17-inch steel wheels, so you'll need 225/75R16, 245/75R16, or 255/75R17 tires.
Optional sizes include 245/75R17, 235/65R18, and 265/45R20 should you choose to upgrade the wheels.
Black Bear
The Black Bear model is one of the best options if you're looking for style and it's named after Black Bear Pass Trail, which is located in Colorado. While it's built on the Sport platform, it has unique decals and tires. For this model, you'll need 245/75R17 tires.
Optional tire sizes include 225/75R16, 235/65R18, or 265/45R20, if you also change the wheels.
Mountain, Arctic, Moab, And Islander
Jeep had a thing for making special edition vehicles in the 2010s and the Mountain and Islander are kind of like twins because they were introduced at the same auto show in Detroit. Both models feature the same tire size of 255/75R17, so most of the differences come down to styling.
Optional sizes include 245/75R17, 235/65R18, and 265/45R20 should you choose to upgrade the wheels.
Willys Wheeler
These models share most components with the Sport and Sport S. However, they have unique elements, badges, and a better gear ratio for off-roading. For these models, the best tire size is usually 255/75R17.
Optional sizes include 245/75R17, 235/65R18, and 265/45R20 should you choose to upgrade the wheels.
Freedom Edition
Who doesn't like a little freedom? One of the most popular JK Wranglers is the Freedom edition, which is built on the Sport platform. This means that it shares many parts with the sport, including the wheels and tires. So, look for 255/75R17 tires.
Optional sizes include 245/75R17, 235/65R18, and 265/45R20 should you choose to upgrade the wheels.
Sahara And Sahara High Altitude
Another popular model, the Jeep Wrangler JK Sahara pays homage to older Wranglers. That said, it's packed with more comfort features and aggressive styling. The Jeep Wrangler JK Altitude is built on the same platform as the Sahara, so look for 255/75R17 or 255/70R18 tires.
Optional tire sizes include 225/75R16 and 275/55R20, should you decide to change the wheels as well.
Rubicon And Rubicon Recon (Including Unlimited)
Jeep Wrangler Rubicons are known as some of the best vehicles you can use for style and off-roading. Aside from components that enhance off-road prowess, the Rubicon also comes with bigger wheels and tires. For the Rubicon, you'll need 255/75R17 tires.
Optional tires include 225/75R16, 255/70R17, and 275/55R20, should you decide to change the wheels as well.
X
Jeep Wrangler X trim levels came from the factory with either 225/75R16, 245/75R16, or 255/75R17 tires.
Optional tire sizes include 235/70R17, 235/65R18, and 265/45R20, if you want to also change the wheels.
Anniversary Edition
There were many Jeep anniversaries during this production line. The 70th Anniversary Edition was equipped with 255/70R18 tires, and the 75th Anniversary Edition needs 245/75R17 tires. Rubicon also had the 10th Anniversary Edition, which requires 265/70R17 tires.
Optional tire sizes include 225/75R16, 235/65R18, 255/70R18, 265/45R20, or 275/55R20 tires if you also change the wheels.
What To Be Aware Of When Increasing Jeep Tire Size
Increasing your Jeep tire size involves several factors, and it's more complex than slapping bigger tires on the same rims. First and foremost, you must be aware of the size of your rims. If you want bigger tires, you'll likely need bigger rims to accommodate them.
You must also consider the axle and driveshaft when increasing your Jeep's tire size. While you might be able to fit 37-inch or 40-inch tires with a lift kit, that doesn't mean your Jeep JK will perform well. In fact, we recommend upgrading the axle and driveshaft to avoid bending fatigue and premature wear due to the larger tire's torque output and bending forces.
It's also important to consider the drivetrain of your Jeep Wrangler when you install larger tires. The wear on your drivetrain can become noticeable once you go over 30 to 32 inches. Due to the heavier weight, the parts might wear faster over time unless you upgrade to aftermarket components.
Additionally, you may need to change to a lower gear ratio in your transmission to compensate for the bigger diameter of the tire and wheel. Typically, you'll want the gear ratio to be about four times the size of the larger tire for optimal performance.
How Much Lift Do You Need For Larger Tires
The amount of lift you need for larger tires depends on the size of the wheels and tires you want to place on your Jeep. Ultimately, the bigger the wheel, the more life you'll need. A good rule of thumb is that you need to lift your Jeep Wrangler JK 2 to 2.5 inches to comfortably fit 35-inch tires if you plan on off-roading. You might be able to squeeze the tires on a Rubicon model, but we still recommend at least a 2-inch lift.
You'll have to invest in a bigger lift if you want even larger tires. For example, 37-inch tires require another inch, about 3.5 inches. It's also possible to fit 40-inch tires on a Jeep Wrangler JK with a 4.5-inch lift, but at that point, you'll likely need to invest in new axles and other parts.
Jeep Wrangler JK Tire Sizes With Lift Kits
The following are possible options for tire sizes with lift kits. Again, you must verify or measure fitment before purchasing and installing
2.5" Lift Kit Or Higher:
- 35" X 12.50" tires using aftermarket 18" x 8.5" wheels with 0 to +1mm offset
- 35" X 12.50" tires using aftermarket 18" x 9" wheels with 0 to +1mm offset
- 35" x 12.50" tires using aftermarket 20" x 9" wheels with 0 to +1mm offset
- 33" X 12.50" tires using aftermarket 20" x 10" wheels with -25 to -18mm offset
- 33" X 12.50" tires using aftermarket 22" x 10" wheels with -25 to -18mm offset
- 285/75R17 tires using factory 17" wheels
- 305/70R17 tires using aftermarket 17" x 8.5" wheels with 0 to +1mm offset
- 305/70R17 tires using aftermarket 17" x 9" wheels with -12 to +1mm offset
3.5" Lift Kit Or Higher:
- 35" X 12.50" tires using aftermarket 17" x 9" wheels with -12 to -6mm offset
- 35" X 12.50" tires using aftermarket 18" x 9" wheels with -12 to -6mm offset
- 35" x 12.50" tires using aftermarket 20" x 9" wheels with -12 to -6mm offset
- 295/60R20 tires using aftermarket 20" x 9" wheels with -12mm offset
Ready for a lift or new tires for your Jeep? Look no further than JEGS. We carry it all, from the smallest links and control arms to a full set of off-road-capable tires and suspension lifts of all sizes.
