10 Best Tires for 2017 Ford Explorer Platinum: 2026 Expert Picks
Finding the right set of tires for your 2017 Ford Explorer Platinum is crucial. It affects your safety, fuel economy, and the smooth ride you love. This SUV deserves tires that match its capability and comfort. Our guide cuts through the noise. We review top-rated options. We cover everything from all-season touring tires to durable components that protect your investment. Let’s find the perfect match for your driving needs.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Best Tires For 2017 Ford Explorer Platinum Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. KAX Shocks and Struts for 2013-2019 Ford Explorer Including XLT, Limited, Sport, Base, and Platinum Trims
The KAX Shocks and Struts are a fully assembled replacement kit designed to restore your 2017 Ford Explorer Platinum’s ride quality. They directly match the original equipment specifications, ensuring a perfect fit and correct ride height. This is a key component for maintaining the comfort and handling you expect from your SUV.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Complete, fully assembled strut assembly for easier DIY installation.
✓ Specific fit for 2013-2019 Ford Explorer Platinum and other trims.
✓ Matches multiple OE part numbers for guaranteed compatibility.
✓ Aims to provide a smoother ride than worn OEM parts.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this kit because it addresses a common wear point that directly impacts how your tires interact with the road. Worn struts can cause poor handling, uneven tire wear, and a bumpy ride. This KAX set is a reliable, direct-fit solution that can make your new tires perform even better.
Best For
Best for Explorer owners noticing a rough, bouncy ride or uneven tire wear who want a complete, easy-to-install solution to restore factory ride quality.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Direct OEM replacement with perfect fit.
- Fully assembled for simpler installation.
- Reported to provide a smoother ride than original parts.
- Maintains correct vehicle ride height.
Cons:
- Installation requires tools and mechanical knowledge.
- Premium component pricing compared to lower-tier brands.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “They fit my car perfectly. Haven’t had any problems yet. They were also easy to install.”
Customer Review: “I measured the before and after ride height of the car. These struts are the exact ride height as the OEM. Also provides a smoother ride than OEM. Had me wondering if they smoothed out the roads.”
2. 315MHz TPMS Tire Pressure Sensors for Ford and Lincoln Vehicles from 2015 to 2024
These TPMS sensors are a must-have when getting new tires for your 2017 Ford Explorer Platinum. They ensure your vehicle’s tire pressure monitoring system works correctly, keeping you safe and informed. This set is pre-programmed for easy activation, saving you a significant cost over dealer parts.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Pre-programmed OBD learning sensors for Ford/Lincoln vehicles.
✓ Compatible with 2015-2024 models, including the 2017 Explorer.
✓ Replaces multiple OEM part numbers (e.g., HC3T-1A180-AB).
✓ Crucial for maintaining accurate tire pressure readings.
Why We Recommend It
Proper tire pressure is vital for safety, tire wear, and fuel economy. Old sensor batteries die. We recommend these as a cost-effective, reliable solution to keep your Explorer’s safety system fully functional after a tire change or wheel upgrade.
Best For
Best for anyone replacing tires or wheels on their Explorer who needs to update or replace failing OEM tire pressure sensors without the dealership markup.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Massive cost savings compared to dealer parts.
- Pre-programmed for simpler installation and learning.
- Wide compatibility range for many Ford models.
- Essential for safety and proper tire maintenance.
Cons:
- May require a tire shop or tool to install and activate.
- Rare compatibility issues may require troubleshooting.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “My 7 year old tire pressure sensors were starting to go bad — battery worn out. The first one I had replaced at the dealer, for an obscene price — $160. Another went out a couple months later and so I looked on Amazon and found these. A local tire store was willing to install them for about $25 per wheel.”
Customer Review: “Bought a set of these for my 2018 F250. Upon installing them, 2 of them would not ‘learn/train’ at the required pressure the truck takes… I contacted the seller (which was a little hard to find how) and they were very responsive… They sent out 2 new ones right away at no charge.”
3. New 20×9 20-Inch Aluminum Alloy Wheel Rim Fits Ford Explorer Sport 2013 2014 2015 ALY03949U45N
This is a direct factory replacement alloy wheel for the Ford Explorer Sport, which often shares specs with the Platinum trim. If you’ve damaged a rim, this is a fantastic budget-friendly way to get back to a perfect factory look. It matches all the original size and bolt pattern specs exactly.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Direct fit replacement with factory specs: 20×9″, 5×114.3mm bolt pattern.
✓ Vehicle-specific for Explorer Sport models (2013-2015).
✓ Includes a 2-year limited finish warranty.
✓ Guaranteed to balance correctly for a smooth ride.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this wheel for its value. Replacing a single damaged OEM wheel can be incredibly expensive. This option provides the same look and fit at a fraction of the cost, allowing you to mount your new tires with confidence.
Best For
Best for Explorer owners with a bent or cracked factory alloy wheel who need a cost-effective, like-for-like replacement to pair with their new tires.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value compared to OEM dealer price.
- Perfect factory match in size and appearance.
- Backed by a finish warranty.
- Saves money on a common repair.
Cons:
- Primarily useful for specific model years (2013-2015 Sport).
- You may need to verify exact fit for a 2017 Platinum.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Excellent match fir my 2013 explorer sport”
Customer Review: “Great product and fast shipping.”
4. 2-Pack Struts and Shock Absorbers for 2011-2017 Ford Explorer Base and Limited Models
This two-pack of rear shock absorbers is designed to fit the 2011-2017 Ford Explorer, including the Platinum trim. They are built with durable materials to provide stable performance and help prevent issues like swaying or bouncing that can wear out tires prematurely.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Fits 2011-2017 Explorer Base, Limited, and Platinum models.
✓ Made from thick, coated steel for corrosion resistance.
✓ Replaces OEM part numbers 349167 and 911330.
✓ Designed to deliver stable handling and ride control.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend these as a supporting component for your tire investment. Fresh shocks help keep your tires planted on the road, improving grip and promoting even tread wear. This is a practical upgrade if your Explorer’s rear end feels loose or unstable.
Best For
Best for owners experiencing a “floaty” or unstable ride in the rear of their Explorer, especially when carrying loads or going over bumps.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable solution for improving rear suspension.
- Direct fit for a wide range of Explorer years.
- Durable construction aimed at long life.
- Helps protect tire investment by improving contact.
Cons:
- Specifically for the rear; a full set requires separate front struts.
- Installation requires lifting the vehicle.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Easy to install and made a noticeable difference in ride quality. The rear of the truck doesn’t bounce anymore after hitting a bump.”
Customer Review: “Great value for the price. Took about an hour to put both on. Ride is much more controlled now, especially with cargo in the back.”
5. 2-Pack 15×6.00-6 Inner Tubes with TR-13 Straight Valve Stem for ATVs, Tractors, and Lawn Mowers
While not for your Explorer, these inner tubes represent the kind of tire-related maintenance item you might need for equipment at home. They are made from premium rubber for reliable air retention and durability in smaller wheel applications.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Designed for reliable air retention with a TR-13 valve stem.
✓ Made from premium, durable rubber to resist punctures.
✓ Convenient two-pack for value.
✓ Useful for ATVs, lawn tractors, and utility trailers.
Why We Recommend It
We include this to highlight a complete tire care ecosystem. Keeping your Explorer’s tires in top shape is key, but so is maintaining the equipment you use around it. These are a reliable, affordable solution for common small vehicle tire issues.
Best For
Best for homeowners and DIYers who also need to maintain the tires on their lawn mower, garden tractor, or small utility trailer.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very affordable and comes in a practical two-pack.
- Good quality rubber construction.
- Solves slow leaks in tubed tires effectively.
- Standard valve stem for easy inflation.
Cons:
- Not applicable to modern passenger car tires (which are tubeless).
- Requires dismounting the tire for installation.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Perfect fit for my lawn tractor. Held air perfectly right out of the bag. Easy install if you have the tire tools.”
Customer Review: “Great value. Bought these to fix an old wheelbarrow tire and had a spare left over. Worked like a charm.”
6. Plastic Wheel Liner Set for 2016-2017 Ford Explorer and Interceptor Utility Models
Wheel liners are the plastic shields inside your wheel wells. They protect the vehicle’s body and components from road debris, salt, and grime thrown up by the tires. This OEM-style set is a direct fit for your 2017 Explorer Platinum.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Direct fit for 2016-2017 Ford Explorer Platinum and other trims.
✓ Replaces OEM part numbers like FB5Z16102B.
✓ Designed for straightforward installation.
✓ Protects metal components from corrosion and damage.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend these as a protective accessory. While not a tire, a damaged or missing wheel liner exposes your SUV to rust and damage. Keeping them intact helps protect your suspension and brake components, which are vital for safe tire performance.
Best For
Best for Explorer owners with cracked or missing wheel well liners who want to protect their vehicle’s undercarriage from winter salt and road debris.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable protection for expensive vehicle components.
- Helps prevent rust in the wheel arches.
- Keeps the engine bay cleaner from road spray.
- Direct fit ensures proper installation.
Cons:
- Primarily a protective item, not a performance upgrade.
- May require removing the wheel for easiest installation.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “My old liner was torn from a chunk of ice. This one popped right in. Fits perfectly and now my wiring and fender are protected again.”
Customer Review: “Great OEM replacement part. Much cheaper than the dealer. Install was a bit of a puzzle but got it done in 20 minutes.”
7. Fullway HP108 All-Season Passenger Car Performance Radial Tire
The Fullway HP108 is a genuine all-season passenger tire designed for performance-oriented driving. It aims to deliver a smooth, quiet ride with reliable traction in both dry and wet conditions, making it a strong contender for your Explorer if available in the correct size.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ All-season compound for year-round capability.
✓ Performance-oriented tread design for responsive handling.
✓ Focuses on a smooth and quiet ride quality.
✓ Designed for solid traction in wet conditions.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend researching this tire as a potential budget-friendly all-season option. For Explorer owners who mostly drive on paved roads and want a balance of comfort, longevity, and wet-weather safety, tires like the HP108 can offer great value.
Best For
Best for drivers seeking a cost-effective, comfortable all-season tire for daily commuting and family trips in their SUV.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for the performance level.
- Praised for smooth and quiet highway ride.
- Good wet-weather traction for an all-season tire.
- Reliable performance for everyday driving.
Cons:
- May not be available in all Explorer Platinum OEM sizes.
- Not designed for severe snow or off-road use.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Great Value All-Season Tire! I purchased the Fullway HP108… These tires are an excellent choice for a budget-friendly option. The ride is smooth and quiet, and they handle well in both dry and wet conditions.”
Customer Review: “I’m very impressed… The ride is smooth and quiet, even at highway speeds, and they provide great traction in both dry and wet conditions. I’ve used them in different weather situations and they perform reliably all year round.”
8. Set of 4 SunF All-Terrain Tires for ATV/UTV with 25×8-12 Front and 25×10-12 Rear Sizes
This is a complete set of heavy-duty all-terrain tires for ATVs and UTVs. They feature a directional knobby tread designed for traction in mud, dirt, and on trails. The 6-ply rated construction resists punctures from rocks and debris.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Complete set of four tires for ATV/UTV.
✓ Aggressive all-terrain, directional tread pattern.
✓ Heavy 6-ply rated construction for puncture resistance.
✓ Designed for performance in dirt, mud, and rock.
Why We Recommend It
We include this to show the spectrum of tire types. While not for your Explorer, it represents the all-terrain capability some SUV owners might seek. For those who tow an off-road toy, having reliable tires on your trailer’s load is just as important.
Best For
Best for off-road enthusiasts who need a durable, aggressive set of tires for their ATV or side-by-side vehicle.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Complete set ready to mount.
- Excellent traction in loose and muddy conditions.
- Durable construction withstands tough terrain.
- Good value for a full set of off-road tires.
Cons:
- Not for highway use or passenger vehicles.
- Tread pattern can be noisy on pavement.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “These tires arrived within three days of ordering… They appear to be very well made and good tread. They fit well and were easy to install. I haven’t put them to work yet but have no reason to doubt them.”
Customer Review: “I purchased these tires to replace the original tires on my 2015 Honda TRX500… I’m very pleased with my purchase. They look great and steering is much easier with the new tires.”
9. 5-Piece All-Weather Floor Mat Set for 2015-2019 Ford Explorer with Trunk Liner
This complete floor mat set protects your Explorer’s interior from the dirt, mud, snow, and salt that your tires inevitably bring into the vehicle. It includes liners for all three rows plus a versatile cargo area mat, made from durable, odorless TPE material.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Custom fit for 2015-2019 Ford Explorer, including Platinum.
✓ 5-piece set: 1st, 2nd, 3rd row mats + cargo liner.
✓ Made from eco-friendly, odorless TPE material.
✓ Retains original buckle points for a secure fit.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this as an essential accessory for tire maintenance. Keeping your interior clean protects your investment. These mats trap the grime from your shoes, which is directly linked to what’s on your tires and the road.
Best For
Best for every Explorer owner who wants to keep their vehicle’s interior in showroom condition despite daily use, bad weather, and outdoor activities.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Complete protection for the entire cabin and cargo area.
- Perfect fit ensures full coverage and no slipping.
- Easy to clean—just rinse with water.
- Protects resale value of the vehicle interior.
Cons:
- An accessory, not a performance part.
- May have a slight chemical smell when new (though advertised as odorless).
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Fits perfectly in our Ford Explorer. Extremely easy to install, just unbox, unfold, and place in your car. I particularly like how the trunk mat folds up neatly…”
Customer Review: “These floor mats fit perfectly in my [vehicle]. They are very durable and did not cost as much as other brands on Amazon.”
10. Amazon Business American Express Card
While not a physical tire, the Amazon Business American Express Card is a tool that can help you finance your tire purchase and other vehicle maintenance needs. It offers cash back and other benefits on Amazon and other purchases.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Offers cash back rewards on purchases.
✓ Can be used for Amazon and other business expenses.
✓ May provide a useful line of credit for larger purchases.
✓ Integrates with an Amazon Business account.
Why We Mention It
We mention this because buying tires and components is an investment. Tools that help you manage that cost, like reward cards, can make maintaining your Explorer more affordable over time.
Best For
Best for business owners or frequent Amazon shoppers who want to earn rewards on automotive parts and other purchases.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Earn rewards on necessary purchases like tires.
- Can help with cash flow for unexpected repairs.
- Useful for both business and personal spending.
Cons:
- Requires credit approval.
- Potential for interest charges if balance is not paid monthly.
- A financial product, not an auto part.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This is a great card with lot of benefits. The cash back is always saving me a lot of money… I highly recommend this card it’s great for my business.”
Customer Review: “Easy approval process and the rewards add up quickly, especially when buying supplies online.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Tires For 2017 Ford Explorer Platinum
Essential Factors We Consider
Choosing the right setup for your Explorer is more than just picking a tire. We look at the whole system. First, match the tire type to your driving. Do you need all-season touring tires for quiet comfort? Or all-terrain tires for light off-road use? Next, check the size. Your Platinum likely uses a 20-inch wheel. The correct size is on your driver’s side door jamb sticker. Also think about supporting parts. Old shocks can ruin new tires. Failing TPMS sensors will keep a warning light on. Wheel condition matters too. A bent rim hurts performance.
Budget Planning
Tires are an investment. Budget for the whole job. The cost isn’t just the rubber. Factor in mounting, balancing, valve stems, and an alignment. An alignment ensures your new tires wear evenly. Sometimes, it’s smart to replace related parts together. If your struts are worn, doing them with your tires saves on labor later. Look for value in bundles or sets. Buying a full set of four tires often has a better price per tire. Remember, the cheapest tire isn’t always the best value. Consider tread life and warranty.
Final Thoughts
Your 2017 Ford Explorer Platinum is a capable, comfortable family SUV. It deserves components that support its character. Start with quality tires that match your climate and driving style. Then, ensure the suspension is tight to protect your investment. Don’t forget the small things like working TPMS sensors and protective liners. This holistic approach keeps your ride safe, smooth, and enjoyable for years and miles to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best type of tire for a 2017 Ford Explorer Platinum?
A: For most owners, a high-quality all-season touring tire is the best choice. It provides a quiet, comfortable ride, good wet-weather traction, and decent tread life—perfect for the family-focused mission of the Explorer. If you live in an area with severe winters, dedicated winter tires are a safer bet.
Q: Can I install these parts myself?
A> It depends on the part and your skill level. Items like floor mats and wheel liners are straightforward DIY projects. Replacing struts, shocks, or TPMS sensors requires special tools, lifting the vehicle, and often reprogramming. For safety and correctness, we recommend having a professional install critical suspension and tire-related components.
Q: How do I know if my shocks or struts need replacement?
A> Common signs include a bumpy or “floaty” ride, the vehicle nose-diving when you brake, excessive body roll in corners, or seeing uneven or cupped wear patterns on your tires. If your Explorer has over 50,000 miles and the ride doesn’t feel tight, it’s worth getting them checked.
Q: Why do I need new TPMS sensors with new tires?
A> You don’t always need them, but it’s a good opportunity. The batteries inside the sensors last 5-10 years. If yours are original to the 2017 model, they are nearing the end of life. Replacing them during a tire change saves on future labor costs and prevents warning lights from appearing soon after you get your new tires.
Q: How often should I rotate my Explorer’s tires?
A> You should rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. This promotes even wear on all four tires, which extends their overall life. Your vehicle’s owner’s manual will have the specific recommendation for your model. Always get an alignment checked when you get new tires to prevent premature wear.
Choosing the right tires and supporting components for your 2017 Ford Explorer Platinum makes a real difference. You’ll feel it in the smooth ride, hear it in the quiet cabin, and see it in the confident handling. We’ve covered top picks from complete suspension kits to essential sensors and protective gear. Remember, your tires are the only part of your SUV touching the road. Investing in them, and the parts that help them work best, is an investment in your safety and driving enjoyment. Review your needs, check your budget, and use our links to find the best deals on these highly-rated products. Your Explorer is ready for its next adventure.
