The 2006 Ford Explorer, a staple of the mid-size SUV market, came equipped with a range of wheel and tire options depending on the trim level and any optional packages selected by the original buyer․ Understanding the specifications of these wheels and tires is crucial for proper maintenance, replacement, and even upgrades to enhance performance or aesthetics․ This information allows owners to maintain the vehicle’s intended handling characteristics and safety features․ It’s also important to note that using the correct wheels and tires ensures the speedometer and odometer function accurately․
Factory Wheel Options for the 2006 Explorer
The 2006 Explorer generally came with the following wheel sizes:
- 16-inch Wheels: Typically found on the base models․ These provided a comfortable ride and were often paired with all-season tires․
- 17-inch Wheels: A common upgrade option, offering a balance between ride quality and handling․
- 18-inch Wheels: Available on higher trim levels, these provided a sportier look and potentially improved handling, but might have resulted in a slightly firmer ride․
Wheel Material and Design
The wheels were usually made of either:
- Steel: More common on base models, offering durability and affordability․
- Aluminum Alloy: Lighter and more aesthetically pleasing, often found on higher trim levels․
Original Tire Specifications
The tire size varied depending on the wheel size․ Here are some common tire sizes found on the 2006 Explorer:
- 235/70R16: Often paired with the 16-inch wheels․
- 245/65R17: A common choice for the 17-inch wheel option․
- 255/60R18: Typically used with the 18-inch wheels․
These numbers represent the tire width (in millimeters), aspect ratio (sidewall height as a percentage of width), and wheel diameter (in inches), respectively․ Consult your owner’s manual or the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the exact tire size recommended for your specific Explorer․
Considerations for Replacement Tires
When replacing tires on your 2006 Explorer, it’s essential to consider several factors:
- Load Rating: Ensure the replacement tires have a load rating equal to or greater than the original tires․
- Speed Rating: Match or exceed the speed rating of the original tires․
- Tire Type: Choose tires appropriate for your driving conditions (e․g․, all-season, all-terrain, winter)․
Upgrading Wheels and Tires
While sticking with the original specifications is generally recommended, some owners choose to upgrade their wheels and tires․ When doing so, ensure the new wheels have the correct bolt pattern and offset․ Also, consider the impact on speedometer accuracy and overall vehicle handling․ Consulting with a tire professional is always a good idea before making significant changes․
Finding the right 2006 Explorer tire and wheel combination is essential for safety and performance․
