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If you drive a Ford Explorer, the right 245/60R18 tires shape ride comfort, handling, and safety across seasonal conditions. Tires sized 245/60R18 influence braking distance, road noise, and fuel economy more than many drivers expect, so picking the right set matters for everyday driving and long trips. This guide shortlists seven top options chosen for their tread life, traction in wet and light winter conditions, and overall durability. We focus on the real-world tradeoffs you'll face when fitting 245/60R18 tires on an Explorer and explain the evaluation criteria used to assemble the shortlist. Read on to find the 245/60R18 tires that best match your driving needs and conditions.
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Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Pirelli Scorpion All Season Plus 3 245/60R18 All-Season Tire |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | MICHELIN CrossClimate2 All-Season Tire 245/60R18 109V XL |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | Evoluxx Capricorn 245/60R18 All-Season Performance Tire |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | STARFIRE Solarus HT All-Season 245/60R18 105H Tire |  |
| Highest Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | TRAVELSTAR UN66 245/60R18 All-Season CUV/SUV Tire — Set of 4 |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Milestar MS932 Sport 245/60R18 All-Season Tire |  |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | Fullway PC369 All-Season 245/60R18 Truck/SUV Performance Tire — Set of 4 |  |
1. Pirelli Scorpion All Season Plus 3 245/60R18 All-Season Tire
| Rim Size | 18 Inches |
|---|---|
| Load Index | 105.00 |
| Speed Rating | H |
| Tread Type | Asymmetrical |
| Seasons | NON_WINTER, Year Round |
The Pirelli Scorpion All Season Plus 3 is a touring all-season tire built for crossovers and SUVs, intended to deliver long wear and predictable handling in mixed conditions. It uses a redesigned tread pattern, updated compound, full-depth sipes and 3D sipe technology to maintain traction from new through the tread life and to improve braking and handling on wet and dry roads. Typical use is daily driving and highway miles where comfort and mileage matter as much as all-season capability. You can expect a quieter ride and stronger snow performance than the prior generation, plus a factory-style fit for vehicles that require a 245/60R18 105H size. Important limitations are that it is not a winter/snow tire specialist, so drivers in severe winter climates will want dedicated winter rubber, and heavy towing or extreme off-road use are outside its intended scope. Fitment should be checked for the Ford Explorer configuration before purchase.
Best for: Drivers seeking a balanced, long-lasting all-season tire for everyday driving on a Ford Explorer who prioritize comfort, predictable handling, and mileage over extreme winter or off-road performance.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need specialized winter traction for prolonged ice and deep snow or those who regularly carry heavy towing loads or do serious off-road driving.
- Designed for CUVs and SUVs so tread and load characteristics suit Ford Explorer everyday driving.
- Updated compound and full-depth sipes for improved tread life and consistent traction over the tire life.
- 3D sipe technology and asymmetric tread pattern improve wet and dry handling and braking.
- Quieter, comfort-focused touring design for reduced road noise on highway miles.
- Not a dedicated winter tire so performance in heavy snow and ice is limited.
Verdict: A balanced all-season touring tire that gives Ford Explorer drivers quieter highway manners, reliable wet/dry handling, and improved tread life for everyday use.
2. MICHELIN CrossClimate2 All-Season Tire 245/60R18 109V XL
| Rim Size | 18 Inches |
|---|---|
| Load Index | 109 |
| Speed Rating | V |
| Tread Type | Directional |
| Seasons | Year Round |
The Michelin CrossClimate2 is an all-season tire built for confident, performance-oriented driving on cars, SUVs, and CUVs that use the 245/60R18 size. It delivers directional tread that focuses on grip in wet and dry conditions and a reinforced XL load rating for heavier vehicles or cargo. In everyday use the tire provides strong braking performance and secure handling on paved roads while also offering a deeper tread life than many competitors, which translates to fewer replacements over time. The construction and 4-ply design support a higher maximum pressure and the 109 load index covers typical mid-size SUV loads. Expect predictable steering response and good high-speed stability from the V speed rating, though this is a road tire not intended for aggressive track use. Buyers should consider professional mounting and balancing because this is sold as a single tire with no wheel included.
Best for: Drivers who prioritize year-round traction and secure braking on paved roads and want a durable tire that holds up under heavier SUV loads while maintaining stable handling.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a true summer performance or track tire for maximum dry grip and lap-focused handling should look at dedicated performance tires instead.
- Strong wet and dry braking performance compared with leading competitors
- Directional tread designed for predictable handling and stability
- Extended tread life up to an advertised extra 15,000 miles versus some competitors
- Higher load capacity with XL rating and 109 load index for heavier SUVs
- Not optimized for aggressive track driving or high-performance summer-only use
Verdict: Choose the CrossClimate2 if you want a durable, all-season 245/60R18 tire that emphasizes reliable wet and dry braking and longer tread life for performance-minded everyday driving.
3. Evoluxx Capricorn 245/60R18 All-Season Performance Tire
| Size | 245/60R18 |
|---|---|
| Load Index | 105 |
| Speed Rating | V |
| Seasons | Year Round |
| Tread Type | Non-Directional |
The Evoluxx Capricorn 245/60R18 is an all-season performance radial built for light trucks and SUVs and aimed at drivers who want a reasonable balance of handling, longevity, and load capacity. It uses a non-directional tread and a 4-ply construction with a 105 load index and V speed rating, so it can handle typical Explorer loads and highway speeds while providing predictable wet and dry grip. The tire carries a 55,000-mile treadlife guarantee and a 7.94 mm tread depth that suggest above-average wear life for an all-season performance tire. Expect modest road noise and competent steering response for daily commuting, weekend trips, and light towing duties within the stated load capacity. Trade-offs are that it is a generalist all-season design rather than a performance summer or dedicated winter tire, so extreme-cold or high-performance track needs are not its focus. Fitment and pressure should match the Explorer's placard to retain ride and safety characteristics.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize a practical, long-wearing tire that provides steady all-season performance for daily driving and occasional light towing on a Ford Explorer.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need dedicated winter traction for heavy snow and ice or who demand maximum grip for high-performance driving should choose a season-specific tire instead.
- All-season tread for year-round use on an Explorer in mixed climates
- 55,000-mile manufacturer treadlife guarantee indicating extended wear life
- 105 load index and 4-ply construction suitable for light towing and typical SUV loads
- Non-directional tread makes rotation pattern simple and maintenance straightforward
- Not a specialized winter or ultra high-performance summer tire so extreme conditions will reduce capability
Verdict: A dependable, long-wearing all-season 245/60R18 tire that suits practical Explorer owners who want balanced performance and mileage.
4. STARFIRE Solarus HT All-Season 245/60R18 105H Tire
| Rim Size | 18 Inches |
|---|---|
| Load Index | 105.0 |
| Speed Rating | H |
| Maximum Pressure | 44 Pound per Square Inch |
| Seasons | Year Round |
The STARFIRE Solarus HT is an all-season highway tire aimed at SUV and light-truck drivers who want predictable everyday performance without a premium price. Its five-rib symmetrical tread promotes even wear and a quiet ride on paved roads while wet grip grooves and traction sipes improve traction in rain and light snow. The tire is M+S rated and carries a 50,000-mile treadwear warranty, which makes it a practical replacement for a Ford Explorer used mainly for commuting, family trips, and light hauling. Construction is radial with a load index and speed rating appropriate for many mid-size SUVs, and the stated maximum pressure and load capacity support typical vehicle loads. Expect good highway manners and long mileage at a lower cost than many brand-name alternatives, but this is a touring tire so it will not match dedicated all-terrain or winter tires in deep snow, off-road traction, or aggressive conditions.
Best for: Buyers prioritizing an affordable, long-wearing highway tire for everyday driving on an SUV who want predictable handling and low road noise over long mileage.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who routinely need serious off-road capability or dependable performance in deep snow should choose specialized all-terrain or winter tires instead.
- Designed for even treadwear with a 5-rib symmetrical pattern for long life
- Quiet highway-focused ride suitable for daily driving and long trips
- Wet grip grooves and traction sipes improve rainy and light snow traction
- 50,000 mile treadwear warranty provides reassurance on longevity
- Not intended for heavy off-road use or severe winter conditions
Verdict: A budget-friendly all-season highway tire that delivers quiet, long-lasting mileage for everyday SUV driving.
5. TRAVELSTAR UN66 245/60R18 All-Season CUV/SUV Tire — Set of 4
| Size | 245/60R18 |
|---|---|
| Tread Type | Asymmetrical |
| Load Capacity | 2039 Pounds (set) |
| UTQG | 520AA |
The TRAVELSTAR UN66 is an all-season tire engineered for CUV and SUV dynamics, offered here as a set of four tires in size 245/60R18. It uses an asymmetrical tread and silica-infused compound to balance wet grip and rolling resistance, which helps with traction in rain and light snow while aiming to keep fuel use reasonable. The tread pattern and optimized pitch reduce road noise for a quieter cabin, and the tire is designed to deliver precise steering response and stable handling at typical SUV speeds. Each tire carries a 105 load index and V speed rating, so it matches common Explorer load/speed needs without up-sizing. The package includes a three-year road hazard warranty, which adds peace of mind for everyday driving. Limitations to consider are that this is a standard load, road-oriented tire rather than a heavy-duty or off-road design, so it will not perform like dedicated winter or off-road tires in extreme conditions. Buyers should also plan for professional mounting and alignment to get the advertised handling and wear characteristics.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize dependable, low-noise year-round performance on a crossover or SUV and want a tire that emphasizes consistent handling and durability.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need aggressive winter traction, heavy-load commercial use, or serious off-road capability should choose a purpose-built winter or off-road tire instead.
- Asymmetrical tread and silica compound for improved wet traction and lower rolling resistance
- Designed to deliver precise steering response and stable handling for CUV/SUV vehicles
- Optimized pitch pattern reduces road noise for a quieter cabin
- Includes a three-year road hazard warranty for added reliability coverage
- Standard load, road-oriented design is not suitable for heavy towing or serious off-road use
Verdict: A quiet, handling-focused all-season tire in 245/60R18 that gives crossover and SUV owners reliable year-round traction with factory-style stability.
6. Milestar MS932 Sport 245/60R18 All-Season Tire
| Size | 245/60R18 |
|---|---|
| Load Index | 105 |
| Speed Rating | H |
| Tread Depth | 10 32nds |
| Seasons | Year Round |
The Milestar MS932 Sport is an all-season touring tire aimed at drivers who want a quiet, confidence-inspiring ride. It uses a non-directional tread and silica-enhanced compound to deliver grip in dry, wet, and light snow while wide circumferential ribs and lateral siping boost lateral stability and handling. In everyday use the tire is noticeably quiet thanks to its optimized tread pattern, making it well suited to highway miles and family duty for SUVs and CUVs. The 10/32 tread depth and 12-ply construction suggest decent wear life and load capacity for larger crossovers. Practical limitations are that this is a performance touring tire rather than a dedicated winter or off-road tire, so expect reduced traction in deep snow or aggressive off-road terrain. Also this model is a universal fit tire so buyers should confirm load index and speed rating match their vehicle and load needs before purchase.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize a quiet, stable touring tire for everyday driving on an SUV or crossover and who rely on peer reviews and real-world durability when choosing tires.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need maximum winter traction, aggressive off-road capability, or a dedicated snow tire should look at specialized winter or off-road options instead.
- All-season silica compound for usable traction in dry, wet, and light snow
- Non-directional tread and optimized siping for a quieter, comfortable ride
- Wide circumferential ribs improve stability and highway handling
- Deeper tread (10/32) and 12-ply construction indicate solid wear life and load support
- Not intended as a dedicated winter or heavy off-road tire so performance falls short in deep snow or mud
Verdict: A quiet, stable all-season touring tire that gives Explorer owners reliable year-round road performance backed by strong real-world feedback.
7. Fullway PC369 All-Season 245/60R18 Truck/SUV Performance Tire — Set of 4
| Size | 245/60R18 |
|---|---|
| Load Capacity | 2039 Pounds |
| Construction Type | Radial |
| Load Range | SL |
| UTQG | Treadwear 400, Traction A, Temperature A |
The Fullway PC369 is a budget-minded all-season performance tire sold as a set of four in 245/60R18 fitment for trucks and SUVs. It uses a symmetrical, radial construction and a touring-style tread intended to balance wet and dry grip with longer tread life, reflected in the 400 treadwear rating and A/A traction and temperature grades. Typical use is everyday driving and highway cruising where predictable handling and even wear matter more than maximum cornering or winter traction. You get a factory-style load rating and a 4-ply SL construction suited to passenger SUVs; the tires should feel stable at highway speeds and resist uneven wear when rotated regularly. Limitations are typical for value performance tires: they are not designed for severe snow or aggressive sport driving, and they may not match premium-brand ride refinement, noise levels, or wet braking distances found on higher-end offerings. Expect good value for routine driving but consider a higher-spec tire if you need superior winter performance or spirited handling.
Best for: Buyers seeking a cost-conscious replacement tire for routine SUV or crossover driving who prioritize even wear and reliable year-round performance over maximum sport or winter traction.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who regularly encounter heavy snow, require top wet-braking or high-performance cornering, or who prioritize the quietest, most refined ride should consider higher-tier alternatives.
- All-season tread for predictable year‑round highway and daily driving
- 400 UTQG with A/A traction and temperature grades indicating above-average tread life and reliable wet grip
- Available as a matched set of four for consistent handling across an SUV axle
- Radial construction and 4-ply SL load range suitable for typical SUV load demands
- Not optimized for heavy snow or dedicated winter driving conditions
- Performance and refinement likely below premium-brand tires in braking and noise
Verdict: A practical, budget-friendly all-season tire set that delivers predictable highway handling and solid treadlife for routine SUV driving.
Choosing the Right Ford Explorer 245/60R18 Tires: Key Factors to Consider
Tread Compound and Grip
Tread compound controls how a 245/60R18 tire adheres to dry, wet, and light snowy surfaces. Softer compounds typically offer better initial traction and shorter braking distances but can wear faster, which matters if you cover high mileage on your Explorer.
Stiffer compounds resist wear and improve high-speed stability but may lose bite in cool, wet conditions. For an SUV like the Explorer, choose a compound that preserves wet traction without sacrificing too much tread life, since safety in rain and occasional light snow is often a higher priority than extreme performance.
Tread Pattern and Water Evacuation
Tread design affects hydroplaning resistance and straight-line braking on wet roads. Tires with multiple circumferential grooves and well-placed lateral channels move water away from the contact patch faster, reducing the risk of hydroplaning when roads are flooded or during heavy rain.
As a Ford Explorer owner, look for patterns that maintain a solid central rib for stability and directional control while offering enough siping and channels to disperse water. Directional and asymmetric patterns each have tradeoffs between steering feel and wet evacuation; prioritize proven wet performance for everyday driving.
Treadwear Rating and Warranty
Expected tread life matters for total cost of ownership. Many manufacturers provide a treadwear rating or mileage warranty that gives a baseline for how long the tires should last under normal conditions. A higher numerical treadwear rating generally indicates longer service life but can correlate with harder compounds and reduced grip.
For 245/60R18 tires on the Explorer, balance warranty-backed mileage against real-world reports of wear for similar driving profiles. Consider how often you drive, your typical loads, and whether you tow; heavier use accelerates wear and may justify choosing tires with stronger construction or reinforced sidewalls.
Load Index and Speed Rating
The load index and speed rating must match or exceed the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations for the Ford Explorer. The load index indicates how much weight a tire can support at its maximum inflation. Using tires with insufficient load capacity can lead to overheating and premature failure, especially when carrying passengers, cargo, or a trailer.
Speed rating affects how the tire behaves at higher speeds and often reflects construction and compound choices. For everyday Explorer use, choose tires with appropriate load and speed ratings to maintain handling predictability and safety margins.
Noise, Comfort, and Construction
Ride comfort and road noise are strongly influenced by tire construction, including sidewall stiffness and internal ply design. Some 245/60R18 options prioritize a cushioned ride and low road noise, which benefits long highway trips and family driving.
Stiffer tires can improve steering response but may transmit more road imperfections into the cabin. Examine consumer feedback on noise levels and look for designs that balance comfort with the handling needs of an SUV like the Explorer.
Seasonal Performance and Temperature Range
Whether you need all-season capability, a dedicated winter tire, or a performance summer option depends on where you drive the Explorer. All-season designs provide a compromise between dry handling, wet traction, and light snow capability, while winter tires use specialized compounds and tread features for cold, snowy conditions.
If you regularly encounter subfreezing temperatures or substantial snowfall, opting for a winter-specific 245/60R18 tire during colder months will improve safety. For temperate climates, a high-quality all-season tire often provides the best year-round balance.
Understanding 245/60R18 Fitment on the Explorer
The 245/60R18 designation describes tire width, aspect ratio, and wheel diameter and directly affects rolling circumference, speedometer accuracy, and wheel well clearance. Ensuring a correct fit keeps steering geometry and suspension behavior within expected ranges for an Explorer.
Before swapping tires, confirm factory recommendations and inspect wheel offset and clearance. Proper fitment maintains handling balance and avoids rubbing during full suspension travel or when carrying heavy loads.
- 245 is the tire section width in millimeters
- 60 is the aspect ratio, the sidewall height as a percent of width
- 18 is the wheel diameter in inches
All-Season Vs Dedicated Winter Options
All-season 245/60R18 tires aim to handle a mix of dry, wet, and light winter conditions without a seasonal swap. They are convenient for owners who encounter only occasional snow and want one set year-round. However, their compound and tread geometry are compromise solutions and do not match the traction of winter-specific tires in severe cold or deep snow.
Dedicated winter tires for 245/60R18 use softer, low-temperature compounds and deeper siping to maintain grip in freezing conditions. If your area sees regular snow or sustained subfreezing temperatures, switching to winter tires during the cold months significantly improves braking and cornering safety.
- All-season: convenient, balanced performance, adequate for mild winters
- Winter: superior snow and ice grip, recommended for regular cold climates
How Tread Depth and Wear Indicators Affect Safety
Tread depth directly influences wet traction and braking distances. New tires typically start with substantial groove depth that helps channel water away from the footprint. As depth decreases, wet performance degrades and the risk of hydroplaning rises.
Most modern tires include tread wear indicators molded into the grooves. Once the tread reaches these indicators, replacement is recommended. Regularly inspecting tread depth and watching for uneven wear patterns helps you replace tires before performance and safety are compromised.
- Measure tread depth with a gauge or use wear bars for quick checks
- Uneven wear can signal alignment or suspension issues needing attention
Maintaining Tire Health: Inflation, Rotation, and Alignment
Correct inflation pressure keeps the contact patch even, supporting predictable handling and maximizing tread life. Underinflation increases rolling resistance and heat buildup, while overinflation reduces the contact area and can accelerate center wear.
Regular rotation evens out wear across all four tires and extends overall service life. Pair rotations with periodic alignment checks and balance services to prevent steering pull, vibration, or premature edge wear on your Explorer.
- Check pressures monthly and before long trips
- Rotate tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles or per manufacturer guidance
- Get alignment checked if you notice uneven wear or steering drift
Load Capacity and Towing Considerations
If you carry heavy cargo or tow occasionally with your Explorer, choose 245/60R18 tires with a load index that comfortably exceeds typical payloads. Tires loaded near their limits run hotter and can wear faster, so building in a safety margin is prudent.
Check the vehicle placard for the recommended tire specifications and account for any added weight from roof racks, cargo carriers, or trailers. Selecting tires rated for the expected loads keeps handling consistent and reduces the risk of tire-related failures.
- Match or exceed the OEM load index for safe towing
- Consider reinforced constructions if you frequently carry heavy loads
When to Replace 245/60R18 Tires on Your Explorer
Tire replacement depends on tread depth, visible damage, age, and wear patterns. Even with adequate tread, tires older than six to ten years may develop internal deterioration that impacts safety. Regular inspections help identify cracking, bulges, or uneven wear that indicate replacement is needed.
If you notice longer stopping distances in wet weather, vibration, or uneven tread wear, address those signs promptly. Proper maintenance and timely replacement preserve the Explorer's handling and safety margins.
- Replace at or before tread wear indicators are exposed
- Consider replacement earlier for persistent vibration or visible damage
Still looking for the perfect fit?
Select your Ford Explorer configuration to see the most relevant Tires recommendations
How We Chose the Best Ford Explorer 245/60R18 Tires
We assembled this list by applying practical criteria that matter to Ford Explorer owners running 245/60R18 tires. Primary evaluation factors included wet and light snow traction, determined from manufacturer traction ratings and independent test summaries; treadwear estimates and mileage warranties to assess long-term value; ride comfort and noise characteristics based on construction and consumer reports; and load and speed ratings appropriate for Explorer curb weight and typical highway use. We also prioritized tires with good aquaplaning resistance and predictable braking performance, since those directly affect safety on wet roads. Factors excluded from consideration were brand marketing claims, niche race-oriented compounds not intended for daily SUVs, and tires sized outside the 245/60R18 specification. The resulting picks emphasize balanced performance for commuting, family hauling, and occasional highway towing, while filtering out options that sacrifice durability or acceptable ride quality for marginal gains in one metric.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
Can I fit a different size than 245/60R18 on my Ford Explorer?
You can fit different sizes in some cases, but any change should preserve overall diameter and load capacity to avoid speedometer error and clearance problems. Consult the vehicle placard and consider professional advice to ensure safe fitment.
How often should I have tire balancing and alignment done?
Have balance checked when you install new tires and alignment inspected yearly or whenever you notice uneven wear, steering pull, or after hitting a pothole. Regular rotation intervals are a good opportunity to check both balance and alignment.
Are all-season 245/60R18 tires adequate for occasional winter driving?
All-season tires handle light snow and cool temperatures adequately, but they do not match winter tires in ice and deep snow. For occasional mild winters they are often sufficient, but dedicated winter tires are safer for regular cold conditions.
What does the load index mean for my Explorer's tires?
The load index indicates the maximum weight each tire can support at its rated inflation. Choose tires with a load index that meets or exceeds the vehicle manufacturer's recommendation, especially if you carry heavy loads or tow.
How do I tell when tread wear indicators require tire replacement?
Tread wear indicators are small raised bars across the grooves. When the tread surface wears level with those bars, the tire has reached its minimum safe depth and should be replaced to maintain wet traction.
Final Verdict
Prioritize safety and suitability when selecting 245/60R18 tires for your Ford Explorer. Balance wet traction, tread life, and the load capacity you need based on your typical driving and towing habits. For regions with regular cold weather, consider rotating to dedicated winter tires in season to retain braking performance and control.Focus on properly sized tires with the right load and speed ratings, maintain recommended inflation and rotation schedules, and replace tires when wear indicators or damage appear. Those steps will help ensure reliable handling and safer driving in everyday conditions.
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