2017 Ram 1500 Sport: Find The Right Tire Size

Choosing the correct tire size for your 2017 Ram 1500 Sport is super important, guys. Not only does it affect your truck's performance and safety, but it also plays a big role in its overall look. I'm going to walk you through everything you need to know to make the best choice for your ride. We'll cover the stock tire size, how to find it, why it matters, and what your other options are if you're thinking about upgrading or changing things up. So, let's dive in and get your Ram 1500 Sport rolling on the perfect set of tires!

Understanding the Stock Tire Size

Okay, so let's talk about the stock tire size for your 2017 Ram 1500 Sport. Knowing this is crucial because it’s what the manufacturer originally intended for the truck. This size ensures that your speedometer reads accurately, your truck handles properly, and there are no clearance issues. For the 2017 Ram 1500 Sport, the most common stock tire size is P275/60R20. This alphanumeric code might seem like gibberish, but it’s actually pretty straightforward once you break it down.

• P indicates that this is a passenger tire. If you see “LT” instead, it means it’s a light truck tire, which is typically more robust.
• 275 refers to the tire's width in millimeters. So, this tire is 275 millimeters wide.
• 60 is the aspect ratio, which is the height of the tire's sidewall as a percentage of its width. In this case, the sidewall height is 60% of 275 mm.
• R simply means it’s a radial tire, which is the most common type of tire construction.
• 20 indicates the wheel diameter in inches. This tire is designed to fit a 20-inch wheel.

Sticking with the stock size offers several advantages. First, your truck will perform as the engineers designed it to. This means optimal fuel efficiency, handling, and braking performance. Second, you won't have to worry about any fitment issues, such as the tires rubbing against the wheel wells or suspension components. Third, maintaining the stock tire size keeps your speedometer and odometer accurate, which is essential for legal and safety reasons. If you’re not looking to make any significant modifications to your truck, sticking with the P275/60R20 size is generally the best way to go.

How to Find Your Current Tire Size

Finding your current tire size is super easy, guys. There are a couple of places you can look. The most obvious spot is right on the tire itself. Just walk up to any of your tires, and you'll see a series of numbers and letters molded into the sidewall. This alphanumeric code tells you everything you need to know about the tire's size and specifications. Look for something that looks like P275/60R20 – that's your tire size.

If you can't find the tire size on the tire (maybe it's worn off or hard to read), don't worry! There's another place you can check: the driver's side doorjamb. Open your driver's side door and look for a sticker that contains information about your vehicle, including the recommended tire size and pressure. This sticker is usually located on the doorjamb itself or on the edge of the door. The information here is what the manufacturer recommends, so it’s a reliable source.

Another handy resource is your vehicle's owner's manual. This booklet contains all sorts of useful information about your truck, including the recommended tire size. The manual will also provide details about tire pressure, load capacity, and other important specifications. Keeping your tires properly inflated and within the recommended load capacity is crucial for safety and performance. So, take a few minutes to consult your owner's manual – it’s a wealth of information at your fingertips. And lastly, if you're still unsure about your tire size, you can always consult a professional tire shop. They can quickly identify your current tire size and help you find the right replacement tires for your 2017 Ram 1500 Sport.

Why Tire Size Matters

Okay, guys, let’s get into why tire size actually matters. It's not just about looks; the right tire size is crucial for your truck's performance, safety, and overall driving experience. Using the correct tire size ensures that your speedometer and odometer function accurately. If you deviate too much from the stock size, your speedometer will give you incorrect readings, which can lead to speeding tickets or inaccurate mileage tracking. Similarly, your truck's computer relies on the tire size to calculate things like fuel economy and transmission shift points. Using the wrong size can throw these calculations off, leading to decreased performance and efficiency.

Handling and braking are also significantly affected by tire size. The width and diameter of your tires impact your truck's grip on the road, especially in wet or slippery conditions. Using a tire size that's too small can reduce your contact patch with the road, leading to decreased traction and longer stopping distances. On the other hand, using a tire size that's too large can cause rubbing against the wheel wells or suspension components, which can damage your tires and affect your truck's handling. The correct tire size ensures that your truck handles predictably and safely in all types of driving conditions.

Beyond performance and safety, tire size also affects your truck's appearance. Many owners choose to upgrade to larger or wider tires for a more aggressive look. While this can certainly enhance your truck's style, it's essential to ensure that the new tires fit properly and don't cause any clearance issues. It is also important to consider the load capacity of the tires. Your truck has a specific load rating, and your tires must be able to handle that weight. Using tires with a lower load capacity can be dangerous, especially when hauling heavy loads or towing trailers. Always check the load rating on the tire sidewall and make sure it meets or exceeds your truck's requirements. So, when choosing tires for your 2017 Ram 1500 Sport, it's important to consider all of these factors.

Exploring Alternative Tire Sizes

Alright, let's talk about alternative tire sizes for your 2017 Ram 1500 Sport. While sticking with the stock size (P275/60R20) is generally the safest bet, some of you might be considering other options for various reasons. Maybe you're looking for a more aggressive look, better off-road performance, or simply a different driving experience. Whatever your reason, it's important to understand the implications of changing your tire size.

One popular option is to go with a slightly larger tire. For example, you could consider a P275/65R20 or P285/60R20. These tires will give your truck a bit more ground clearance and a more aggressive stance. However, it's crucial to ensure that these larger tires don't rub against the wheel wells or suspension components. You may need to install a leveling kit or lift kit to create enough clearance. Also, keep in mind that larger tires can affect your speedometer accuracy and fuel economy.

Another option is to go with a wider tire. For example, you could consider a P305/50R20. Wider tires can provide better grip and handling, especially in dry conditions. They can also enhance your truck's appearance, giving it a more muscular look. However, wider tires can also decrease fuel economy and increase road noise. It's also important to ensure that the wider tires don't extend too far beyond the fenders, as this can lead to legal issues in some areas.

If you're planning to do a lot of off-roading, you might want to consider tires with a more aggressive tread pattern. These tires typically have larger lugs and deeper grooves, which provide better traction in mud, sand, and snow. However, aggressive off-road tires can be noisy on the highway and may not last as long as standard tires. It's essential to balance your off-road needs with your on-road driving habits when choosing tires. Before making any changes, it's always a good idea to consult with a tire professional. They can assess your truck's specific needs and recommend the best tire size and type for your driving style.

Considerations Before Changing Tire Sizes

Before you jump into changing your tire sizes, guys, there are a few things you really need to think about. It's not just about picking what looks cool; it's about making sure your truck stays safe and performs well. So, let's go over the key considerations before you make any changes to your tires.

First, think about clearance. This is super important. When you go bigger, you need to make sure those new tires aren't going to rub against anything when you turn or go over bumps. Rubbing can damage your tires and even your truck, and nobody wants that. Check the wheel wells, suspension, and frame to make sure you've got enough space. If you're not sure, ask a pro. They can help you measure and figure out what will fit without causing problems. Next, consider your speedometer. Changing tire sizes can mess with your speedometer reading. If you go with a taller tire, your speedometer might read slower than you're actually going, and vice versa. This isn't just annoying; it can also get you into trouble with the law. You can usually recalibrate your speedometer to match your new tire size, but it's something you need to take care of.

Also, think about your truck's computer. Modern vehicles rely on tire size to calculate a bunch of things, like fuel economy and transmission shift points. Changing your tires can throw these calculations off, which can affect your truck's performance and efficiency. Some vehicles can automatically adjust to new tire sizes, but others might require a software update or reprogramming. Make sure you know what your truck needs to stay running smoothly. Don't forget about load capacity. Your tires need to be able to handle the weight of your truck, especially if you're hauling cargo or towing a trailer. Check the load rating on the tire sidewall and make sure it's high enough for your needs. Using tires with a lower load capacity can be dangerous, so don't skimp on this one. Finally, consider your driving conditions. Are you mostly driving on the highway, or do you spend a lot of time off-road? The type of tires you choose should match the type of driving you do. Aggressive off-road tires might look cool, but they can be noisy and wear out quickly on the highway. Think about what's most important to you – performance, comfort, or appearance – and choose your tires accordingly. Changing tire sizes can be a great way to customize your 2017 Ram 1500 Sport, but it's important to do your homework and make sure you're making the right choices.

Maintaining Your Tires

Keeping your tires in good shape is crucial for safety, performance, and longevity, guys. Regular maintenance can prevent premature wear, improve fuel efficiency, and ensure that your 2017 Ram 1500 Sport handles properly. Let's go over some essential tire maintenance tips.

First off, check your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires can lead to decreased fuel economy, poor handling, and increased risk of tire failure. Overinflated tires can cause a rough ride and uneven wear. The recommended tire pressure for your 2017 Ram 1500 Sport is usually listed on the driver's side doorjamb or in your owner's manual. Use a reliable tire pressure gauge to check your tire pressure at least once a month, and adjust as needed. It's best to check your tire pressure when the tires are cold, as the pressure increases when the tires heat up from driving.

Also, rotate your tires regularly. Tire rotation helps to ensure even wear, which can extend the life of your tires. The recommended rotation interval varies depending on the type of tires and your driving habits, but a good rule of thumb is to rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,000 miles. There are several different tire rotation patterns, so consult your owner's manual or a tire professional for the recommended pattern for your vehicle.

Inspect your tires for wear and damage. Regularly check your tires for signs of wear, such as worn tread, sidewall cracks, or bulges. Worn tread can reduce your tires' grip on the road, especially in wet or slippery conditions. Sidewall cracks or bulges can indicate structural damage, which can lead to tire failure. If you notice any signs of wear or damage, have your tires inspected by a tire professional as soon as possible. Don't forget to have your tires balanced and aligned. Tire balancing ensures that the weight is evenly distributed around the tire, which can prevent vibrations and uneven wear. Tire alignment ensures that your wheels are properly aligned with each other and with the vehicle, which can improve handling and prevent premature wear. Have your tires balanced and aligned whenever you get new tires, and then periodically as needed.

By following these simple tire maintenance tips, you can keep your tires in good shape and ensure that your 2017 Ram 1500 Sport performs safely and reliably for years to come.

Conclusion

So, there you have it, guys! Everything you need to know about tire sizes for your 2017 Ram 1500 Sport. From understanding the stock size (P275/60R20) to exploring alternative options and maintaining your tires, you're now equipped to make the best choices for your ride. Remember, the right tire size is crucial for performance, safety, and appearance, so take your time, do your research, and don't be afraid to ask for help from a tire professional.