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If you drive a Ford Explorer with 245/70R16 tires, choosing the right replacements matters for safety, comfort, and handling. The wrong tire can compromise braking distance, wet traction, or ride noise, while the right tire restores predictable steering and acceptable wear patterns.This guide shortlists seven top-rated 245/70R16 tires for the Explorer and explains the performance attributes that matter on pavement, in light snow, and during highway driving. We evaluate grip, tread life, noise, and load capacity so you can match a tire to your driving priorities. Read on to see the types of tires we considered and why they made the list.
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Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Hankook Dynapro AT2 RF11 All-Terrain Radial Tire 245/70R16 111T |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus 245/70R16 111T Light Truck Tire |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | Nexen Roadian HTX RH5 245/70R16 All-Season Tire |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | WESTLAKE SL369 All-Terrain Tire 245/70R16 111S |  |
| Highest Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | GT Radial Savero HT2 245/70R16 All-Season Tire |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | STARFIRE Solarus HT All-Season 245/70R16 107T Tire |  |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | TRAVELSTAR Ecopath AT All-Terrain 245/70R16 Tire (single) |  |
1. Hankook Dynapro AT2 RF11 All-Terrain Radial Tire 245/70R16 111T
| Rim Size | 16 Inches |
|---|---|
| Load Index | 111.0 |
| Speed Rating | T |
| Load Capacity | 2403 Pounds |
| Seasons | Year Round |
The Hankook Dynapro AT2 RF11 is an all-terrain 245/70R16 tire aimed at drivers who want one set of tires for daily highway use and occasional off-road excursions. Its symmetrical tread and reinforced XL ply rating help provide steady handling and load capacity, while the tread pattern delivers improved grip on loose surfaces compared with street tires. The tire is rated T for speed and lists a 60,000-mile treadwear expectation, which suggests reasonable longevity for mixed driving. Expect confident wet and dry traction and a firmer ride under heavy load thanks to the XL load range and 111 load index. Trade-offs are typical for an all-terrain design: it will be noisier and a bit less refined than a highway touring tire and will not match dedicated mud-terrain traction in extreme off-road conditions. For a Ford Explorer that needs a capable do-it-all tire for daily driving plus light trail use, the Dynapro AT2 is a practical, well-rounded choice.
Best for: Drivers who want a single tire that handles daily highway miles comfortably while giving capable traction for weekend trails and light towing on a Ford Explorer.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who prioritize the quietest possible highway ride or who need maximum off-road mud performance should consider a dedicated touring or mud-terrain tire instead.
- All-terrain tread balances on-road grip with off-road traction
- XL ply and 111 load index support heavier loads and towing
- Manufacturer claims a 60,000-mile treadwear expectation for long life
- Symmetrical tread promotes predictable handling in wet and dry conditions
- All-terrain design may produce more road noise and less refinement than touring tires
- Not optimized for extreme mud-terrain performance
Verdict: A durable, balanced all-terrain tire that suits Ford Explorer drivers who want reliable on-road manners plus competent light off-road capability.
2. Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus 245/70R16 111T Light Truck Tire
| Rim Size | 16 Inches |
|---|---|
| Load Index | 111.0 |
| Speed Rating | T |
| Load Capacity | 2403 Pounds |
| Tread Depth | 13 32nds |
The Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus is an all-terrain light truck tire built to handle mixed on-road and mild off-road driving while keeping a composed highway manners. It features a symmetrical tread with a deep 13/32" depth and an extra load (XL) rating, so it carries heavy loads and towing duties without sacrificing stability. Typical use is for SUVs and light trucks that see a mix of pavement and dirt roads; expect confident wet traction from the tread design and reasonable road noise for an all-terrain pattern. The reinforced construction and 111 load index support heavier vehicles and gear, but the T speed rating and non-winter designation mean it is optimized for durability and load rather than high-speed performance or severe winter traction. Installation is straightforward on 16-inch rims and the tire balances utility, durability, and a more aggressive look compared with street tires. If you prioritize all-season toughness with load capability, this tread strikes a good balance, though it is not a high-speed or specialized winter option.
Best for: Buyers who need a durable, load-capable all-terrain tire for mixed pavement and light off-road driving and who prioritize carrying capacity and tread life over high-speed grip.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who regularly encounter deep snow or who need high-speed performance should consider dedicated winter or higher speed-rated tires instead.
- Designed for mixed on/off-road use with aggressive all-terrain tread
- Extra load (XL) construction and 111 load index for heavier loads and towing
- Deep tread depth (13/32") for longer wear and improved traction
- Universal fit for 16-inch rims common on SUVs and light trucks
- Not intended for winter/snow use since seasons marked NON_WINTER
- T speed rating (T) limits higher-speed performance compared with higher speed-rated tires
Verdict: Choose this tire if you want a durable, load-focused all-terrain 245/70R16 that balances off-road capability with stable on-road behavior.
3. Nexen Roadian HTX RH5 245/70R16 All-Season Tire
| Rim Size | 16 Inches |
|---|---|
| Load Index | 111.0 |
| Speed Rating | T |
| Load Capacity | 2403 Pounds |
| Seasons | Non Winter |
The Nexen Roadian HTX RH5 is a highway-terrain, all-season radial designed for pickup trucks, SUVs, and crossovers in 245/70R16 size. It is built for everyday road use with a multi-sequence tread that reduces noise, improves wear life, and channels water for better wet traction. The tire includes XL ply construction and a 111 load index, so it supports heavier loads common on loaded Explorers and small SUVs. Nexen pairs the tire with a 65,000-mile treadwear warranty plus a one-year road hazard replacement for the first 2/32" of wear and a 36-month roadside assistance program, which is practical if you drive long distances. Expect comfortable, quiet highway cruising and acceptable mud and pebble evacuation for light off-road use, but do not count on winter traction since it is specified as non-winter. Installation is straightforward as a vehicle-specific fit, but drivers wanting aggressive off-road grip or winter performance should look elsewhere.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize low road noise, long tread life, and added ownership protections for everyday driving and occasional light off-road use.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need year-round snow and ice traction or aggressive off-road capability should choose a winter-rated or all-terrain tire instead.
- Long treadwear warranty and included road hazard replacement provide ownership protection
- Multi-sequence tread reduces road noise and promotes even wear for comfortable highway driving
- XL ply and 111 load index support heavier loads and towing common to SUVs and light trucks
- Design features to evacuate mud and pebbles help brief off-road use without frequent stone retention
- Not intended for winter or severe snow conditions so requires swapping for cold-season driving
Verdict: A quiet, long-wearing 245/70R16 highway tire that suits daily driving and heavier loads while offering useful warranty and roadside support for practical owners.
4. WESTLAKE SL369 All-Terrain Tire 245/70R16 111S
| Size | P245/70R16 |
|---|---|
| Load Index | 111 |
| Load Capacity | 2403 Pounds |
| Speed Rating | S |
| Seasons | Year Round |
The Westlake SL369 is an all-terrain, all-season 245/70R16 tire aimed at light trucks and SUVs where value matters. It uses a directional tread with aggressive stepped blocks and added siping to boost on- and off-road traction and improve braking response. The XL ply rating and 111 load index give it a higher load capacity suitable for heavier loads and towing compared with standard passenger tires. Expect a firm ride typical of all-terrain tires and competent year-round traction on dry and wet surfaces, while the tread design also helps reduce road noise through variable pitch elements. This tire is a practical choice when you need a rugged replacement that balances durability and capability for mixed driving rather than a premium highway comfort tire. Limitations include a likely shorter tread life and less refined highway manners than higher-end brands, and its S speed rating is modest compared with performance alternatives.
Best for: Buyers looking for a durable, budget-focused all-terrain replacement tire for mixed on/off-road driving who prioritize load capacity and value over premium ride refinement.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who want the quietest possible highway ride, longest tread life, or the highest speed capability should consider premium touring or performance tires instead.
- All-terrain directional tread provides improved off-road and mixed-surface traction
- XL ply and 111 load index support heavier loads and towing needs
- Siping and variable pitch tread reduce road harmonics and improve wet braking response
- Designed for year-round use so no seasonal tire changeover is required
- S speed rating is lower than many performance or highway tires
- Expected treadwear and highway comfort are likely inferior to premium brands
Verdict: A cost-conscious all-terrain tire that delivers heavier-load capability and reliable year-round traction for mixed driving on a Ford Explorer.
5. GT Radial Savero HT2 245/70R16 All-Season Tire
| Rim Size | 16 Inches |
|---|---|
| Load Index | 106.0 |
| Speed Rating | T |
| Tread Type | Symmetrical |
| Seasons | Year Round |
The GT Radial Savero HT2 is a highway-terrain all-season tire intended for light trucks and SUVs in 245/70R16 sizing. It is built as a 6-ply radial with a symmetric tread that emphasizes even wear and a comfortable, quiet ride for daily driving and long highway runs. Notable features include a 106 load index and T speed rating, a 12/32nds tread depth that helps longevity, and a manufacturer 50,000-mile limited warranty that reflects its longevity focus. In use it delivers predictable handling and good stability at typical driving speeds and carries heavier loads expected on midsize SUVs. Expect competent wet traction for year-round use but limited performance in deep snow compared with dedicated winter tires. Installation is straightforward and the universal fit designation means it suits common 16-inch rims. For drivers prioritizing steady wear life and dependable highway manners, this tire is a practical, budget-conscious choice with clear limits for severe winter or high-performance driving.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize dependable, long-lasting highway performance and consistent day-to-day handling on an Explorer used primarily for commuting and hauling.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who regularly encounter deep snow, ice, or need high-performance handling should consider specialized winter or performance tires instead.
- Long tread depth and 50,000-mile limited warranty to support extended tread life
- 6-ply radial construction and 106 load index for solid load carrying on SUVs
- Symmetrical tread pattern for even wear and a quiet, comfortable highway ride
- All-season compound offers year-round wet and dry performance for typical driving conditions
- Not optimized for severe winter conditions or deep snow compared with dedicated winter tires
Verdict: A durable, budget-friendly all-season tire that delivers predictable highway stability and long tread life for everyday Ford Explorer use.
6. STARFIRE Solarus HT All-Season 245/70R16 107T Tire
| Size | 245/70R16 107T |
|---|---|
| Load Capacity | 2149 Pounds |
| Tread Depth | 10.5 32nds |
| Construction Type | Radial |
| UTQG | 500-A-B |
The STARFIRE Solarus HT is an all-season touring tire sized 245/70R16 that targets SUV owners who want a comfortable, long-wearing highway tire. Its five-rib symmetrical pattern with traction sipes and wet-grip grooves is designed to provide predictable handling, reduced road noise, and improved traction in wet and light winter conditions. In everyday use this tire performs like a highway touring rubber—comfortable at cruising speeds, stable on dry pavement, and confidence-inspiring in rain thanks to dedicated water channels. The 50,000-mile wear warranty and a 500-A-B UTQG rating suggest good longevity for mostly road-driven vehicles. Expect limited off-road capability and only moderate snow performance compared with dedicated winter or aggressive all-terrain tires. Fitment is universal for vehicles that take 245/70R16, and installation and balancing are straightforward for shop fitment.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize a quiet, long-lasting highway tire with reliable wet traction for daily driving and occasional winter roads, and who prefer proven customer satisfaction before committing.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need aggressive off-road traction or peak winter performance should choose purpose-built all-terrain or winter tires instead.
- Designed for quiet highway driving with a symmetrical five-rib tread pattern
- Wet Grip Grooves and traction sipes improve traction in rain and light snow
- 50,000-mile warranty indicates long expected tread life
- 500-A-B UTQG rating signals strong wear resistance and traction balance
- Not intended for heavy off-road use or severe winter conditions
Verdict: A quiet, highway-focused all-season tire with a long wear warranty that suits Ford Explorer drivers who want reliable road manners and strong wet traction.
7. TRAVELSTAR Ecopath AT All-Terrain 245/70R16 Tire (single)
| Rim Size | 16 Inches |
|---|---|
| Load Index | 107.00 |
| Speed Rating | T |
| Seasons | Year Round |
| Construction Type | Radial |
The TRAVELSTAR Ecopath AT is an all-terrain 245/70R16 radial intended for light trucks and SUVs that balances on-road comfort with modest off-road capability. It uses a symmetrical tread and a 4-ply construction to provide predictable handling and a long tread life claim backed by a 50,000 mile limited treadwear warranty plus a three-year road hazard warranty. Typical use is daily driving and occasional dirt or gravel roads where drivers want more grip than a highway tire without aggressive off-road behavior. Notable features include a 107 load index for higher carrying capacity, a T speed rating, and a universal fit approach for easy replacement. Practical benefits are durable tread, year-round traction, and the included road hazard protection that reduces the risk of an unexpected replacement cost. Limitations include a standard load designation rather than LT load range for heavy towing and the T speed rating which is lower than higher-speed passenger ratings, so it is not aimed at sportier driving or extreme off-road use.
Best for: A cautious buyer who prioritizes predictable year-round performance and warranty protection for a Ford Explorer used mostly on pavement with occasional unpaved roads.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need heavy-duty towing capacity, aggressive off-road traction, or higher speed-rated tires for sporty driving should consider other tire types.
- All-terrain tread balances on-road comfort with light off-road grip
- 50,000 mile limited treadwear warranty plus three-year road hazard coverage
- 107 load index supports heavier loads compared with standard passenger tires
- Symmetrical tread and radial construction for predictable handling and longevity
- Standard load (SL) designation limits heavy-towing or commercial use
Verdict: Choose this tire if you want a warranty-backed, all-terrain 245/70R16 that favors dependable year-round performance and damage protection for everyday Explorer use.
Choosing the Right Ford Explorer 245/70R16 Tires: Key Factors to Consider
Wet Traction and Hydroplaning Resistance
Wet traction determines stopping distance and cornering confidence in rain, which is important for Explorer owners who drive in varied weather. Look for tires with circumferential grooves and lateral channels that move water away from the contact patch. Siping density and rubber compound also influence grip on wet surfaces; higher siping usually improves bite but can increase wear in some compounds.
Hydroplaning resistance is closely tied to tread pattern design and void ratio. Tires that evacuate water efficiently maintain a larger effective contact area and reduce the risk of losing steering control at highway speeds. For the Explorer, prioritize balanced wet performance because this vehicle is often used in mixed road and weather conditions.
Tread Life and Warranty
Expected tread life affects how often you replace tires and overall ownership cost. Treadwear ratings, mileage warranties, and real-world durability reports help estimate longevity. A tire with a longer-rated life may use a harder compound or reinforced design, which can slightly affect grip and ride comfort.
Warranty coverage matters too. Look for clear mileage warranties and understand the prorated terms. For Explorers used for commuting and family driving, a tire that balances decent tread life with reliable traction typically delivers the best value over time.
Snow Performance and All-Season Tradeoffs
If you encounter winter conditions, selecting a 245/70R16 tire that offers effective light-snow traction matters for stopping and acceleration on slick roads. All-season designs are common and aim to provide a compromise between dry, wet, and light winter performance. However, not all all-season tires perform equally in snow.
Assess the density and pattern of sipes, the presence of biting edges, and any snow-specific tread features. For areas with regular heavy snow, a dedicated winter tire is superior, but for light to moderate snow, a high-performing all-season tire can be adequate while preserving year-round convenience.
Ride Comfort and Road Noise
Ride comfort affects daily driving enjoyment, especially on long trips. Tire construction, sidewall stiffness, and tread pattern contribute to how much road texture and noise transmit into the cabin. Touring-style 245/70R16 tires often emphasize lower noise and smoother ride at the expense of ultra-aggressive traction.
Consider the kind of driving you do most. If highway cruising and passenger comfort are priorities, choose a tire designed for comfort. If you need sharper steering response for spirited driving, a firmer, performance-oriented tire may be acceptable despite more road noise.
Load Rating and Durability for Vehicle Use
The Ford Explorer may carry family, cargo, or tow light loads, so matching the tire load rating to the vehicle's requirements is essential. Ensure any replacement 245/70R16 tire meets or exceeds the original equipment load index to avoid overloading and premature failure.
Durability features such as reinforced sidewalls, belt package design, and construction quality influence resistance to punctures and sidewall damage. For owners who occasionally carry heavier loads or tow, choose tires with appropriate load capacity and robust construction.
Handling and Steering Response
Steering feel and cornering stability impact driver confidence, especially when merging or navigating winding roads. Tire compound, tread block stiffness, and shoulder design determine how direct and predictable the steering input feels.
A more responsive tire will reduce body roll and provide sharper turn-in, while softer touring tires may feel more relaxed. Balance handling needs with comfort and wear expectations to find the right compromise for everyday Explorer driving.
Understanding 245/70R16 Fitment on the Explorer
245/70R16 denotes tire width, aspect ratio, and wheel diameter. That physical size affects overall diameter, speedometer accuracy, and clearance in the wheel well. Confirming fitment for your specific Explorer trim and wheel offset is the first step before buying replacements.
While the size is a common replacement for many Explorer configurations, check the vehicle placard and your current tires to confirm load index and speed rating. Incorrect fitment can impact alignment geometry and may cause rubbing during full lock or heavy suspension compression.
- Verify load index and speed rating match or exceed original equipment.
- Check wheel width and offset compatibility to avoid rubbing.
- Account for potential changes in speedometer reading with different diameters.
Matching Tire Type to Driving Style
Your driving habits determine whether you want an all-season, all-terrain, or performance-focused tire in the 245/70R16 size. Commuters and family drivers often prefer all-season touring tires for balanced comfort and longevity. Drivers who prioritize grip and responsiveness may accept shorter tread life for better handling.
If you regularly encounter rough roads or light off-pavement conditions, look for tires with tougher sidewalls and open tread patterns that shed debris. For primarily highway use, prioritize low rolling resistance and lower noise levels.
- Commuting and highway use: touring all-season tires
- Occasional gravel or light off-road: reinforced all-terrain designs
- Performance-oriented driving: stiffer shoulder design and grippier compounds
Maintaining Tire Life and Performance
Regular maintenance extends the life of 245/70R16 tires and preserves safety. Rotate tires at recommended intervals, maintain the correct inflation pressure for load and driving conditions, and monitor tread wear for uneven patterns that indicate alignment or suspension issues.
Balancing and alignment are essential after installing new tires or if you feel vibrations or uneven wear. Proper alignment keeps steering predictable and avoids premature shoulder wear, while balancing reduces vibration that can stress wheel bearings and suspension components.
- Rotate tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or per manufacturer guidance
- Check tire pressure monthly and before long trips
- Address vibrations or pulling promptly to avoid accelerated wear
Interpreting Treadwear Ratings and Warranties
Treadwear ratings and mileage warranties give a baseline expectation for life but are not guarantees. Ratings offer comparative guidance between tires, while warranties outline prorated coverage if the tire wears prematurely. Understand any exclusions and the method for prorating coverage.
When assessing warranty value, consider typical driving patterns. Higher-mileage warranties can be more meaningful for high-mileage commuters, while light-duty drivers may prioritize traction attributes over maximum warranty length.
- Compare treadwear indicators and warranty terms
- Ask how prorated mileage claims are calculated
- Factor in your annual mileage when weighing warranty benefits
Seasonal Choices: When to Consider Dedicated Winter Tires
All-season 245/70R16 tires handle light snow, but for regular winter conditions a dedicated winter tire improves stopping and traction on ice and deep snow. Winter tires use softer compounds and tread designs optimized for cold temperatures, providing meaningful safety benefits in sustained low temperatures.
If you live where snow is infrequent and short-lived, a high-quality all-season tire may be a pragmatic choice. For locations with sustained winter weather, plan for seasonal tire swaps to maximize safety and performance.
- Dedicated winters improve braking and acceleration in sustained cold
- All-seasons are practical for mild winters and year-round convenience
- Store and swap tires seasonally to preserve tread life
Tire Installation and Post-Install Checks
Have new tires mounted and balanced by a qualified technician and request a final alignment check. Proper torque of lug nuts, correct valve stems, and sealing of the bead are small steps that prevent air loss and vibration issues.
After installation, monitor tire pressures daily for the first week and look for any unusual vibration, noise, or handling change. Small adjustments to tire pressure and a quick re-balance can resolve many early issues.
- Ensure professional mounting and static/dynamic balancing
- Torque lug nuts to factory specifications after initial drive
- Re-check pressures and handling after the first 100 miles
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 245/70R16 Tires
We started by focusing strictly on tires in the 245/70R16 size that meet the load and speed ratings appropriate for the Ford Explorer. From that pool we prioritized options that deliver safe wet and light-snow traction, predictable handling, and competitive treadwear expectations. Key evaluation criteria included braking and cornering traction in both wet and dry conditions, treadwear warranty and projected life, ride comfort and road noise, load rating conformity for typical Explorer configurations, and compatibility with common alignment and balancing tolerances.We also considered tread compound technology and tread design patterns that contribute to water evacuation and winter performance without sacrificing highway refinement. Tires with unclear load ratings, nonstandard constructions for the size, or poor documented durability were excluded. We did not include specialty racing or commercial-only truck tires that do not suit street-driven Explorers, nor did we consider options outside the 245/70R16 specification. Our final shortlist reflects a balance of safety, longevity, and everyday driving comfort.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
How often should I replace 245/70R16 tires on my Explorer?
Tire replacement often depends on mileage and wear patterns but typically occurs between 25,000 and 60,000 miles for many tire types. Inspect tread depth regularly, and replace tires when tread depth reaches 2/32 inch or when wear indicators are visible. Also factor in age and visible damage even if tread remains.
Can I use all-season 245/70R16 tires in winter for the Explorer?
All-season tires provide acceptable performance in light snow and cool conditions, but they are not optimized for heavy snow and ice. If you face sustained winter weather, dedicated winter tires offer better braking and traction. Consider your local climate and driving patterns when deciding.
What load rating do 245/70R16 tires need for the Explorer?
You should choose tires with a load index that meets or exceeds the original equipment rating for your Explorer trim. The vehicle placard lists recommended tire specifications. Using a lower load rating can risk overloading the tire and reducing safety and durability.
Does tire balancing and alignment matter after fitting new tires?
Yes. Proper balancing prevents vibration and uneven wear, while alignment ensures predictable steering and even tread wear. Have both checked after installation and again if you experience pulling, vibration, or rapid shoulder wear.
How do I read the 245/70R16 tire size and what does it mean?
The first number is tread width in millimeters, the second is the aspect ratio (sidewall height as a percentage of width), and R16 indicates a radial tire designed for a 16-inch wheel. That combination determines overall diameter and clearance, so confirm it matches your vehicle specifications.
Are cheaper 245/70R16 tires worth considering for the Explorer?
Lower-cost tires can be adequate for low-mileage or budget-conscious owners, but they may sacrifice tread life, wet traction, or comfort. Balance initial cost with expected performance and warranty coverage to determine if a cheaper option fits your needs.
What is a tire tread wear indicator and how do I use it?
Tread wear indicators are small raised bars molded into the grooves of the tire that become flush with the tread as depth approaches 2/32 inch. Check these indicators across the tire to assess remaining life and replace tires when indicators are level with the tread surface.
Final Verdict
Prioritize the attributes that match how you use your Explorer. If you drive mostly on highways with occasional wet weather, choose a 245/70R16 tire with strong wet traction, a solid treadwear expectation, and a comfortable ride. If winter conditions are common, favor tread designs and compounds that improve cold-weather braking and consider seasonal tire changes.Balancing load rating, tread life, and handling will yield the best real-world outcome. Use the factors above to weigh tradeoffs and pick the 245/70R16 option that aligns with your driving priorities and service needs.
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