Wondering what tire size fits your 2017 RAM 1500? Finding the right tires can be confusing with so many options available, but it’s crucial for your truck’s performance, safety, and appearance.
Your 2017 RAM 1500’s tire size depends on several factors including the trim level, wheel size, and any modifications you’ve made. The factory-installed tires typically range from P265/70R17 to P275/60R20, but there’s flexibility for upgrades if you’re looking to enhance your truck’s capabilities. Understanding your exact RAM’s requirements will save you time and money when it’s time for a replacement.
Understanding the 2017 Ram 1500 Tire Size Specifications
The 2017 Ram 1500 comes with exact tire size specifications that vary according to the trim level and wheel size your truck has. Factory tire sizes for this model typically range from P265/70R17 to P275/60R20, with each size offering different performance characteristics.
Reading tire sizes might seem confusing at first, but it’s actually quite straightforward once you know what the numbers mean. For example, in P275/60R20, “P” indicates it’s a passenger vehicle tire, “275” refers to the width in millimeters, “60” is the aspect ratio (height to width percentage), “R” means radial construction, and “20” is the wheel diameter in inches.
Different trim levels of the 2017 Ram 1500 come with different stock tire sizes:
- Tradesman and Express: P265/70R17
- Big Horn and Lone Star: P275/60R20
- Laramie: P275/60R20
- Sport: P275/60R20
- Rebel: P285/70R17
- Limited: P275/60R20
During my years working at a tire shop, I’ve seen many Ram owners come in confused about their tire options. One customer, Mike, brought in his 2017 Ram 1500 Laramie thinking he needed the largest tires possible, not realizing that the P275/60R20 size was already optimized for his truck’s performance balance and fuel economy.
Upgrading or changing your tire size is possible, but it’s important to maintain a similar overall diameter to prevent issues with your speedometer accuracy and transmission. For the 2017 Ram 1500, you can typically go up or down one size without major modifications, though larger changes might require lift kits or fender modifications.
Remember that tire load ratings are crucial for a truck like the Ram 1500. Most factory tires come with load ratings sufficient for the truck’s capabilities, but if you’re planning to regularly haul heavy loads or tow trailers, you might want to consider tires with higher load ratings than the originals.
Factory Tire Sizes for Different 2017 Ram 1500 Trims
The 2017 Ram 1500 comes with exact factory tire sizes that vary across different trim levels. Each trim package features carefully selected tire dimensions to optimize performance, handling, and appearance for that particular model variant.
Tradesman and Express Models
Tradesman models come standard with 265/70R17 tires, providing a balanced combination of durability and comfort for work-focused applications. Express models offer flexibility with either the same 265/70R17 tires as the Tradesman or an upgraded 275/60R20 option for those seeking enhanced road presence and handling characteristics. These base models prioritize functionality while still offering some customization options for buyers with different needs.
SLT and Big Horn Models
SLT models typically feature 265/70R17 tires, maintaining the practical approach of entry-level trims with good all-around performance. Big Horn models step up to larger 275/60R20 tires, delivering a wider contact patch and more imposing stance. The increased width of the Big Horn’s tires provides improved traction in various conditions while complementing the more premium appearance of this mid-range trim.
Sport and Night Edition Models
Sport models come equipped with 275/60R20 tires as standard equipment, emphasizing the performance-oriented nature of this trim level. The Sport Regular Cab version takes tire size even further with massive 285/45R22 tires, creating an aggressive stance and improving the truck’s sporty characteristics. These larger diameter wheels and lower-profile tires give the Sport and Night Edition models a more street-focused appearance while maintaining reasonable off-road capability.
Laramie and Limited Models
Laramie trims offer versatility with either 265/70R17 or 275/60R20 tire sizes depending on the exact configuration you select. Laramie Longhorn and Limited models exclusively use the larger 275/60R20 tires, matching their premium status with appropriately upscale wheel and tire combinations. These higher-end models benefit from the improved ride quality and visual appeal of the larger tire package, complementing their luxury features and distinctive styling elements.
Upgrading Your 2017 Ram 1500 Tires
Upgrading the tires on your 2017 Ram 1500 can dramatically improve both performance and appearance. Many Ram owners choose to install larger tires for enhanced ground clearance, better off-road capability, or simply to achieve a more aggressive look.
Maximum Tire Size Without Modifications
Without any modifications to your 2017 Ram 1500, you can fit tires up to 33 inches in diameter (such as 33×12.50R17), particularly on 17-inch rims. These larger tires provide improved ground clearance and a more commanding presence on the road. Anything beyond this size typically causes rubbing against fenders or suspension components during turning or when hitting bumps. Ram owners frequently report that 33-inch tires serve as the sweet spot for unmodified trucks, offering a important upgrade without the need for extensive alterations to your vehicle’s suspension or body.
Lift Kit Options and Corresponding Tire Sizes
Installing a lift kit creates additional clearance for fitting substantially larger tires. A 2-inch leveling kit comfortably accommodates 33-inch tires without rubbing issues, giving your Ram 1500 an enhanced stance. For more ambitious tire upgrades, a 3-4 inch lift kit allows you to mount 35-inch tires or larger, completely transforming your truck’s appearance and off-road capabilities. Many Ram enthusiasts find that a moderate 2-inch lift provides the perfect balance between improved aesthetics and practical drivability, maintaining reasonable step-in height while significantly improving the truck’s profile.
The most popular aftermarket tire sizes include 33×12.50R17 and 35×12.50R17, depending on your lift setup. These wider, taller tires provide superior traction in off-road conditions while creating a more imposing appearance. Remember that larger tires affect gearing and can impact fuel economy, so consider your primary driving needs when selecting the ideal size for your upgraded Ram 1500.
Performance Benefits of Different Tire Sizes
Different tire sizes on your 2017 Ram 1500 create noticeable differences in performance characteristics. Larger diameter tires like 275/60R20 or 285/45R22 enhance road grip and stability at higher speeds, while also improving overall handling dynamics. These larger options contribute to a more aggressive appearance and often provide a smoother ride due to their increased sidewall height.
Fuel Economy Considerations
Tire size directly impacts your 2017 Ram 1500’s fuel efficiency in several ways. Larger and wider tires increase rolling resistance and aerodynamic drag, reducing overall fuel economy. Heavier tires and wheels require more energy to rotate, putting additional strain on the drivetrain and further decreasing efficiency. Maintaining the OEM-recommended tire sizes or selecting slightly smaller options helps preserve or even improve fuel economy by minimizing unnecessary drivetrain resistance.
Off-Road Capability Improvements
Off-road performance dramatically improves with appropriate tire size adjustments on your Ram 1500. Larger tires with aggressive tread patterns, such as 33-inch or 35-inch all-terrain or mud-terrain options, increase ground clearance for better obstacle management across rocks, mud, and uneven terrain. Greater sidewall height provides enhanced cushioning and resistance to punctures during off-road adventures. Factory-equipped Rebel trims benefit from 285/70R17 tires specifically designed to tackle rough terrain with superior capability compared to standard configurations.
Popular Tire Brands Compatible With 2017 Ram 1500
Several top tire manufacturers produce high-quality options specifically designed for the 2017 Ram 1500’s performance requirements. Goodyear offers many tire models engineered to match the Ram 1500’s various trim levels and performance needs, making them a leading choice among truck owners. Michelin tires provide excellent durability and road comfort, complementing the Ram’s ride quality while maintaining proper traction in various conditions.
BFGoodrich tires are particularly favored by off-road enthusiasts who own the 2017 Ram 1500, especially for models like the Rebel trim. Bridgestone presents another reliable option with their truck-exact tire lines that fit the stock sizes ranging from 265/70R17 to 285/45R22. These brands consistently deliver products that meet or exceed the performance specifications required for a full-size pickup truck.
When selecting replacement tires, focusing on these established manufacturers ensures compatibility with your Ram’s stock sizes whether you’re driving a Tradesman with 265/70R17 tires, a Sport model with 275/60R20, or a premium trim featuring 285/45R22 wheels. Each brand offers exact tire models designed to handle the weight, towing capacity, and driving dynamics of the Ram 1500 while providing appropriate wear characteristics for daily driving.
How to Read Your Ram 1500 Tire Size Information
Understanding your Ram 1500 tire size code is straightforward once you know what each number and letter represents. The typical tire size format, such as 275/60R20, contains exact information about the tire’s dimensions and construction.
The first number (275) indicates the tire width in millimeters measured from sidewall to sidewall. Your tire’s width affects both handling characteristics and appearance, with wider tires generally providing better grip on dry surfaces.
After the slash, the second number (60) represents the aspect ratio or profile. This percentage tells you the height of the tire’s sidewall relative to its width – in this example, the sidewall height is 60% of the 275mm width. Lower profile tires offer improved cornering stability while higher profiles provide better ride comfort.
The letter “R” stands for radial construction, which is the standard design for modern tires. Radial tires feature layers of fabric with cords running perpendicular to the direction of travel, improving durability and performance.
The final number (20) specifies the wheel diameter in inches that the tire is designed to fit. Your Ram 1500’s rim size dictates which tire diameter you’ll need – whether it’s 17, 20, or 22 inches.
Different trims of the 2017 Ram 1500 come equipped with exact tire sizes from the factory. Express, Tradesman, and SLT models typically feature 265/70R17 tires, while upper-level trims like Big Horn, Laramie, and Limited often sport 275/60R20 tires. The off-road focused Rebel trim comes with specialized 285/70R17 tires for enhanced traction in challenging terrain.
Paying attention to these specifications ensures you’ll select compatible replacement tires that maintain your truck’s intended performance characteristics, handling, and fuel efficiency.
Conclusion
Choosing the right tire size for your 2017 RAM 1500 doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re sticking with factory specifications or upgrading to larger tires you’ve got plenty of options to match your driving needs.
Remember that factory sizes range from P265/70R17 to P275/60R20 depending on your trim level. For those seeking more aggressive looks and performance up to 33-inch tires will fit without modifications while larger sizes require appropriate lift kits.
Your choice impacts everything from fuel economy to off-road capability so consider your primary driving conditions before making a decision. By selecting the right size from quality manufacturers like Goodyear Michelin or BFGoodrich you’ll ensure optimal performance safety and style for your RAM 1500.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the standard tire size for a 2017 RAM 1500?
The standard tire size for a 2017 RAM 1500 varies by trim level. Tradesman and Express models typically use P265/70R17 tires, while Big Horn, Lone Star, Laramie, Sport, and Limited trims come with P275/60R20 tires. The Rebel model uses P285/70R17 tires. Your specific trim level determines the factory-installed tire size.
How do I read the tire size numbers on my RAM 1500?
Tire size numbers (like P275/60R20) break down as follows: “P” indicates passenger vehicle, “275” is the width in millimeters, “60” is the aspect ratio (sidewall height as a percentage of width), “R” means radial construction, and “20” is the wheel diameter in inches. Understanding these numbers helps you select compatible replacement tires.
Can I put larger tires on my 2017 RAM 1500 without modifications?
Yes, you can fit tires up to 33 inches in diameter on a stock 2017 RAM 1500, particularly on 17-inch rims. This size provides better ground clearance and appearance while avoiding rubbing issues. However, going beyond 33 inches typically requires lift kits or other modifications to prevent clearance problems.
What size tires fit with a leveling kit on my RAM 1500?
With a 2-inch leveling kit, you can comfortably fit 33-inch tires on your RAM 1500. For larger 35-inch tires, you’ll need a 3-4 inch lift kit. These modifications provide additional clearance to accommodate larger tires without rubbing against fenders or suspension components during turns or compression.
Will changing tire size affect my truck’s fuel economy?
Yes, larger and wider tires typically reduce fuel economy due to increased rolling resistance and aerodynamic drag. Bigger tires can decrease MPG by 1-2 miles per gallon. Maintaining OEM-recommended tire sizes or choosing slightly smaller options will help preserve fuel efficiency on your RAM 1500.
What are the best tire brands for a 2017 RAM 1500?
Top tire brands for the 2017 RAM 1500 include Goodyear, Michelin, BFGoodrich, and Bridgestone. Goodyear offers extensive options, Michelin provides durability and comfort, BFGoodrich excels for off-road use (especially for Rebel trims), and Bridgestone has reliable truck-specific lines. These manufacturers provide high-quality tires compatible with RAM 1500 specifications.
How does tire size affect off-road performance?
Larger tires improve off-road performance by increasing ground clearance, providing better traction on rough terrain, and enhancing resistance to punctures. The 2017 RAM 1500 Rebel’s factory P285/70R17 tires are specifically designed for off-road capability, but upgrading to 33-inch or 35-inch tires can further improve performance on challenging trails.
Will changing tire size affect my speedometer accuracy?
Yes, installing tires with a different overall diameter than the factory specifications will affect your speedometer accuracy. Larger tires cause your speedometer to read slower than your actual speed, while smaller tires make it read faster. Maintain a similar overall diameter when changing tire sizes to minimize these discrepancies.
What tire size comes on the RAM 1500 Rebel trim?
The 2017 RAM 1500 Rebel comes factory-equipped with P285/70R17 tires. These are larger than the standard tires on other trims, providing better off-road capability and a more aggressive appearance. The Rebel’s tires are specifically chosen to complement its off-road-focused suspension and features.
How important is the tire load rating for my RAM 1500?
Tire load rating is crucial, especially if you plan to haul heavy loads or tow trailers with your RAM 1500. Higher load ratings indicate tires that can safely carry more weight. Always choose tires with appropriate load ratings to match your truck’s GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) and your typical cargo and towing needs.
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