Understanding the correct 2017 Ford F-150 XLT tire size is essential for owners who prioritize safety, performance, and fuel efficiency. The tires on your truck are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, influencing everything from handling and braking to the ride quality you experience daily. Choosing the right diameter and width ensures that your suspension operates as intended and that the speedometer readings remain accurate.
Factory Specifications and Standard Fitment
The 2017 Ford F-150 XLT often came equipped with 17-inch aluminum wheels as a baseline configuration, utilizing a tire size of P245/75R16. This specific measurement indicates a tire with a section width of 245 millimeters, an aspect ratio of 75 (where the sidewall height is 75% of the width), and a rim diameter of 16 inches. While this setup was common for work-focused trims, the F-150 platform offered flexibility depending on the specific cab configuration and bed length selected at the dealer.
Variations Across Configurations
It is important to note that the Ford F-150 lineup was not a one-size-fits-all vehicle, and this variation extended to the XLT trim. Depending on whether the truck featured a standard cab, SuperCab, or SuperCrew, and whether it was paired with a short box or a long box, the wheel well spacing changed. Consequently, some XLT models rolled off the line wearing P255/65R17 tires, which provided a slightly taller sidewall for better off-road articulation or a wider contact patch for improved traction on paved surfaces.
Performance and Handling Implications
Switching from the factory 2017 Ford F-150 XLT tire size can have dramatic effects on the truck's dynamics. Installing a larger diameter tire, often referred to as a "plus size" fitment, can give the vehicle a more aggressive stance and smoother ride quality by lowering the effective gear ratio. However, this modification forces the engine and transmission to work harder to maintain highway speeds, which can result in reduced fuel economy and potential strain on the driveline if not calibrated correctly.
The Importance of Load Rating
Since the XLT trim is frequently chosen by contractors and DIY enthusiasts, the load rating of the tire is just as critical as the size. The 2017 F-150 was designed to tow trailers and haul heavy payloads, so the tires must be rated to handle significant weight. When replacing tires, ensure that the new rubber meets or exceeds the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) specified in the driver’s door jamb sticker to prevent overloading and premature wear.
Aftermarket Options and Customization
Owners of the 2017 XLT often look to the aftermarket to find tires that better suit their lifestyle, whether that means rugged all-terrain tread for weekend adventures or quiet highway touring tires for daily commuting. Brands like BFGoodrich, Goodyear, and Michelin offer direct-fit replacements that maintain the correct overall diameter. Maintaining the OEM diameter is a best practice known as "plus sizing," which preserves the speedometer accuracy and avoids clearance issues with the bumpers or fenders.
Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS)
Equipped with a direct TPMS, the 2017 Ford F-150 XLT will alert the driver if tire pressure drops below a critical threshold. This safety feature is vital for maintaining the correct footprint on the road, especially when the truck is loaded to its maximum capacity. Always reset the TPMS sensors or ensure they are compatible if you change the tire size, as improper sensor calibration can lead to false warnings or undetected pressure loss.
