Elevate your Toyota Fortuner’s performance and style with a tire size upgrade. Discover the impact on handling, comfort, and overall driving experience. Explore the Potential benefits of changing tyre size in Toyota Fortuner perfect tire size options for your Fortuner.
Changing Tyre Size in Toyota Fortuner
The Toyota Fortuner is a popular midsize SUV that is known for its off-road capabilities and rugged design. One common question Fortuner owners have is whether they can change the tyre size on their vehicle, typically to install larger tyres. There are a few key things to consider when changing tyre size in a Fortuner:
Fitment and Clearance
Larger tyres may require modifications to prevent rubbing. They should clear the fenders and suspension components at full lock and over bumps. Wider tyres also increase scrub radius effects.
Gearing and Speedometer
Larger diameter tyres will throw off your speedometer reading and affect gearing. You’ll travel faster than the speedometer reads. This may be illegal and unsafe.
Load Ratings
Ensure new tyres have adequate load and speed ratings for the vehicle. The Fortuner is heavy, so light truck tyres are best.
Ride Quality and Handling
Larger tyres can give a harsher ride and affect handling. Consider this if going more than 1 inch larger in diameter.
So it is possible to change tyre size in a Fortuner, but careful selection is required to avoid issues. See the sections below for more details.
Recommended Tyre Sizes for the Toyota Fortuner
The Toyota Fortuner comes equipped from the factory with 17, 18 or 20 inch diameter wheels depending on the trim level. Here are the original equipment tyre sizes:
Factory Tyre Size for Fortuner Trims:
- 2.7L 2WD – 265/65R17 112H
- 2.7L 4WD – 265/60R18 110H
- 2.8L 4WD – 265/60R18 110H
- 2.8L 4WD (Limited) – 265/50R20 111V
These are common highway terrain tyres that offer a balance of on-road comfort and adequate off-road traction.
When considering an increase in tyre diameter, here are some sizes that are compatible with the Fortuner:
265/70R17 (33.7″ diameter) – 1.4% larger
This size will fit on the factory 17″ rim and provides a modest increase in ground clearance. Requires minor suspension tweaks.
265/65R18 (32.9″ diameter) – stock diameter
This is essentially a direct replacement for the stock 18″ tyre size. Maintains all factory drivetrain characteristics.
275/55R20 (32.9″ diameter)
Fits factory 20″ wheels. Same diameter as stock with added width for more traction.
285/50R20 (33.4″ diameter) – 1.4% larger
Fits factory 20″ wheels. Lifts the Fortuner slightly while adding grip.
These sizes strike a good balance for the Fortuner, providing some added capability without compromising too much on-road behavior.
Larger Tyre Sizes to Fit the Fortuner
For increased off-road performance, some Fortuner owners choose to install oversize tyres in the 33 to 35 inch diameter range:
265/75R16 (33.7″)
Fits after minor modifications on stock 16″ steel wheels for select trims. Adds significant ground clearance.
275/70R17 (34.6″) – 2.6% larger
Fits with minor mods on factory 17″ alloy wheels. Provides excellent off-road traction and height.
275/65R18 (34.4″) – 2.2% larger
Fits factory 18″ rims with minor adjustments. Great compromise size for off-road use.
285/70R17 (35″) – 4.1% larger
Very large for a 17″ wheel but doable with significant modifications. Maximum lift and traction.
33×12.5R17 (34.2″)
A 33″ tall light truck tyre is a common choice for dedicated off-road Fortuners. Requires aftermarket wheels.
These oversize tyres will change the Fortuner’s driving dynamics more noticeably, but offer greater capability in deep ruts, over rocks, and on loose terrain. Additional considerations are required.
Effects of Larger Tyres on the Fortuner
While larger tyres can improve off-road traction and ground clearance, they do have some downsides:
Speedometer/Gearing
The Fortuner’s speedometer and gearing are calibrated for the stock tyres. Increasing overall diameter throws off the speedometer accuracy and effectively raises gear ratios. Your actual traveling speed will be higher than indicated.
Ride Comfort
Larger tyres have more mass which impacts the suspension tuning. The ride may feel harsher and less comfortable, especially with oversize tyres. Noise levels also increase.
Handling
The Fortuner’s handling dynamics change with tyres of different size, potentially reducing responsiveness. Wider tyres also increase scrub radius effects which affect steering.
Fuel Economy
The additional weight and rolling resistance of bigger tyres hurts fuel efficiency. You may see 1-2 mpg reduction.
Legality
Tyres that rub or contact at full lock, or throw off the speedometer substantially, may violate vehicle regulations.
While these factors shouldn’t necessarily deter you from upsizing the Fortuner’s tyres, they are important considerations. Select tyre sizes intelligently and adjust other components to compensate.
Necessary Modifications When Changing Fortuner Tyre Size
To safely accommodate larger tyres and avoid issues, the Fortuner may need some modifications:
Suspension Lift
A 1-3 inch lift helps clear bigger tyres and maintain sufficient travel. Lift kits for the Fortuner are readily available.
Fender Trimming/Cutting
Plastic fender liners and metal fender edges may need trimming to prevent rubbing at full lock or over bumps.
Hub Centric Rings
Helps center wheels of different offsets. Reduces vibration and prevents strain on lugs.
Steering Stop Adjustment
Prevents over-articulation damage. Allows proper turning radius with aggressive tyres.
Rear Axle/Differential
Upgraded components help handle the increased torque of larger tyres. Prevent premature wear.
Revised Speedometer Gearing
Corrects speedometer inaccuracy from larger overall diameter. Keeps indicated speeds legal.
These modifications require experience to install properly. Have a qualified shop make the adjustments for best results and safety.
Tips for Changing Toyota Fortuner Tyre Size
If you do decide to upsize the tyres on a Toyota Fortuner, here are some tips:
- Select tyres sizes in modest increments to minimize negative effects
- Adjust suspension, fenders, drivetrain as needed to prevent damage
- Have wheels properly balanced and aligned after new tyres installed
- Re-calibrate speedometer and ABS system to account for diameter change
- Check tyre clearance at full lock when test driving
- Retorque wheel lugs after initial 50-100 miles on new tyres
- Consider more heavy duty wheels to handle larger tyres
- Gearing changes may require ECU tuning to optimize engine/transmission
- Stick with reputable brands for quality and reliability
Taking the proper precautions will allow you to upgrade your Fortuner for better off-road traction while keeping safe and reliable daily driving.
Frequently Asked Questions about Changing Toyota Fortuner Tyre Size
What is the largest tyre size I can fit on a stock Fortuner?
On a stock Fortuner without any modifications, generally a 265/70R17 or 285/50R20 are the largest tyres you can fit without rubbing or clearance issues. Anything larger will require some modifications.
What tyre size gives the most lift?
For the most increase in ride height, the largest diameter tyres that fit with a suspension lift would be options like a 275/70R17 or 285/70R17. These provide 2-4 inches of extra ground clearance.
Will bigger tyres reduce my Fortuner’s fuel economy?
Yes, increasing tyre size, especially by more than 1″, will likely result in 1-2 mpg fuel economy reduction. The heavier tyres have more rolling resistance.
Can I keep my factory Fortuner wheels if I upgrade tyre size?
It depends on how much you want to upsize. Generally you can increase tyre diameter 1″ on factory wheels, beyond that may require wider aftermarket wheels.
Do I need to tune the transmission if I change Fortuner tyre size?
For minor size increases (<3%) you may not need to tune the transmission. But for optimal performance with Significant diameter changes (+3% or more) a transmission tune is recommended.
Conclusion
Changing tyre size on a Toyota Fortuner allows owners to customize their vehicle for improved off-road capability. With thoughtful selection of tyre sizes, necessary modifications, and proper installation, tyre upsizing can provide added ground clearance, traction, and rugged aesthetics. However, take care not to compromise ride quality, handling, and drivetrain reliability in the process. Overall, a modest increase of 1-2 inches in diameter is recommended for most Fortuners seeking better off-road performance while retaining good on-road manners. With the right approach, the Fortuner can be upgraded to handle more extreme terrain while remaining a safe, comfortable daily driver.