Wheels and Tires for 2019 Jeep Wrangler: Upgrade Now

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Upgrading Your 2019 Jeep Wrangler: A Guide To Wheels And Tires

The 2019 Jeep Wrangler, whether it’s the iconic two-door JK or the more spacious four-door JL, is built for adventure. Its rugged capability is a major draw, but one of the most impactful ways to enhance its performance, looks, and off-road prowess is by upgrading its wheels and tires.

Choosing the right combination can transform your Wrangler from a capable daily driver into a trail-conquering machine or a stylish head-turner. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about selecting the perfect wheels and tires for your 2019 Jeep Wrangler, covering key considerations, popular options, and important factors to keep in mind.

When you think about modifying your Jeep, wheels and tires are often at the top of the list. They are the direct connection to the terrain, and their size, offset, and tread pattern play a crucial role in how your vehicle handles everything from city streets to rocky trails.

The factory setup is designed for a balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability, but for many owners, that balance needs to be shifted. Whether you’re aiming for aggressive off-road looks with larger, chunkier tires, improved on-road handling with lighter wheels, or a specific performance goal like better mud traction or sand flotation, the right wheel and tire package is essential.

This isn't just about aesthetics, though a great-looking wheel and tire combo is certainly a bonus. The right choices can improve your Jeep's ground clearance, allowing you to tackle tougher obstacles without scraping.

They can also affect fuel economy, braking performance, and even the longevity of your drivetrain components.

Understanding the interplay between wheel size, tire size, backspacing, offset, and the various types of tires available will empower you to make informed decisions that align with your driving needs and your Jeep’s intended use.

Understanding Wheel Specifications

Before diving into specific tire types and wheel designs, it’s crucial to understand the language of wheels. Knowing these terms will help you select compatible parts and avoid common mistakes.

Wheel Diameter And Width

Wheel diameter is measured in inches and refers to the size of the wheel itself, not the overall tire diameter. Common sizes for the 2019 Wrangler include 17 inches, 18 inches, and 20 inches.

Larger diameter wheels generally look more modern and can accommodate larger brake systems.

However, they often require lower-profile tires, which can reduce off-road capability and ride comfort.

Wheel width is also measured in inches and determines how wide a tire the wheel can safely mount. A wider wheel can support a wider tire, which can increase the tire’s contact patch with the ground, improving traction and stability.

Common widths range from 7. 5 inches to 9 inches or more, depending on the wheel design and bolt pattern.

Bolt Pattern

The bolt pattern describes the arrangement of the lug holes on the wheel. For the 2019 Jeep Wrangler (JL generation), the standard bolt pattern is 5×5 inches (or 5x127mm). This means there are five lug nuts evenly spaced around a 5-inch diameter circle. It’s essential to match this bolt pattern when selecting new wheels to ensure they bolt correctly to your Jeep’s hubs. The previous JK generation also used a 5×5 bolt pattern, making many aftermarket wheels compatible across both generations.

Backspacing And Offset

These two terms describe how the wheel mounts to the hub and how it sits in relation to the vehicle’s fender. They are critical for ensuring proper tire clearance and avoiding rubbing, especially when you increase tire size.

Backspacing: This is the distance from the *back* of the wheel (the mounting surface that contacts the hub) to the *back* edge of the wheel rim. A lower backspacing number means the wheel sits further out from the hub, effectively pushing the wheel and tire outwards. For a 2019 Wrangler, factory backspacing is typically around 5.5 inches. Many aftermarket wheels designed for larger tires have lower backspacing (e.g., 4.5 inches or less) to help accommodate wider tires and prevent rubbing on suspension components.
Offset: This measures the distance from the wheel’s centerline to its mounting surface. A positive offset means the mounting surface is closer to the outside of the wheel, pushing the wheel inwards. A negative offset means the mounting surface is further from the outside of the wheel, pushing the wheel outwards. Most aftermarket wheels for Jeeps have a negative offset to achieve the desired stance and tire clearance. For example, a -12mm offset will push the wheel out further than a 0mm offset.

Understanding these specifications is crucial. For instance, if you plan to run significantly larger tires, choosing wheels with appropriate backspacing and negative offset is key to preventing the tires from rubbing on your fenders, control arms, or sway bar links.

Choosing The Right Tires For Your 2019 Jeep Wrangler

Tires are arguably the most important component for off-road performance and overall driving experience. The type of tire you choose will depend heavily on where and how you plan to use your Jeep.

Tire Types

All-Terrain (AT) Tires: These are the most popular choice for Jeep owners who want a versatile tire. AT tires offer a good balance between on-road manners and off-road capability. They have more aggressive tread patterns than street tires but are still relatively quiet and comfortable for daily driving. They perform well on dirt, gravel, and light mud.
Pro Tip: Look for AT tires with robust sidewalls, as this is crucial for off-road durability and can help prevent punctures when airing down.
Mud-Terrain (MT) Tires: For serious off-road enthusiasts who frequently encounter mud, rocks, and challenging terrain, MT tires are the way to go. They feature large, widely spaced tread blocks with deep voids, which provide excellent traction in soft conditions like mud and sand. However, they tend to be louder on the highway, offer a harsher ride, and wear faster on pavement.
Consideration: MT tires often require more frequent airing down for optimal off-road performance and can be less predictable in wet or icy conditions.
Hybrid Terrain (RT/XT) Tires: These tires attempt to bridge the gap between AT and MT tires. They offer a more aggressive tread than ATs, with larger voids and often reinforced sidewalls, but aim to be quieter and more comfortable on the road than traditional MTs. They are a good option for those who do a mix of daily driving and moderate to challenging off-roading.
All-Season Tires: While some Wranglers might come with all-season tires, they are generally not recommended for owners who plan to venture off-road. They prioritize on-road comfort and fuel efficiency but lack the aggressive tread and durability needed for trail use.

Tire Sizing

Tire sizes are presented in a code like LT285/70R17. Let’s break this down:

LT (Light Truck): Indicates the tire is built for light trucks, offering stronger construction and higher load ratings than passenger car tires.
285: This is the tire width in millimeters.
70: This is the aspect ratio, representing the tire’s sidewall height as a percentage of its width. So, 70% of 285mm. A lower number means a shorter, more “low-profile” tire.
R: Stands for Radial construction, which is standard for most modern tires.
17: This is the wheel diameter in inches that the tire is designed to fit.

When increasing tire size, you need to consider:

Clearance: Larger tires can rub against fenders, suspension components, or the frame, especially at full steering lock or when the suspension is compressed.
Gearing: Larger tires effectively increase your gear ratio, making your Jeep feel slower and putting more strain on the engine and transmission. You might need to re-gear your axles to compensate.
Speedometer Calibration: Your speedometer and odometer will be inaccurate with larger tires. Many aftermarket programmers can correct this.
Revolutions Per Mile (RPM): This is a key metric. Larger tires have fewer revolutions per mile, affecting your perceived speed and distance.

Popular Tire Brands And Models For 2019 Jeep Wrangler

Here are some highly regarded tire options that fit the 2019 Jeep Wrangler, categorized by type:

All-Terrain (AT):
BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2: A benchmark in the AT category, known for its durability, aggressive looks, and excellent performance on various terrains.
Falken Wildpeak A/T3W: Offers a great balance of on-road comfort, wet traction, and off-road capability, with a strong sidewall.
Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac: A very popular choice, often considered a hybrid between AT and MT due to its aggressive tread and good mud/snow performance.
Nitto Ridge Grappler: Often categorized as a hybrid, it offers aggressive looks and capability with surprisingly decent on-road manners.
Mud-Terrain (MT):
BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3: The latest iteration, offering improved mud traction, rock crawling grip, and better durability than its predecessors.
Toyo Open Country M/T: A classic choice for serious mud enthusiasts, known for its aggressive tread and robust construction.
Nitto Trail Grappler M/T: A true mud-terrain tire with deep treads and large voids for maximum mud and dirt performance.
Hybrid Terrain (RT/XT):
Cooper Discoverer Rugged Trek: A newer entrant that aims to provide a blend of aggressive looks and capability with improved on-road comfort.
General Grabber X3: Offers a more aggressive look than many ATs and good performance in mud and rocks.

Exploring Wheel Options For Your 2019 Jeep Wrangler

Wheels are not just about looks; they also play a role in weight, durability, and clearance for larger brake systems or suspension components.

Wheel Materials And Construction

Aluminum Alloy: The most common choice for aftermarket wheels. They are relatively lightweight, strong, and can be cast or forged into complex, attractive designs.
Cast Aluminum: More affordable, but can be more susceptible to cracking under extreme impact.
Flow-Formed/Rotary Forged: A hybrid process that makes the wheel stronger and lighter than traditional casting.
Forged Aluminum: The strongest and lightest option, but also the most expensive. Ideal for extreme off-roading where durability is paramount.
Steel: Traditional and very durable, often used for basic, heavy-duty applications. Steel wheels are heavier than alloy wheels but are less likely to crack from impacts, often deforming instead. They are typically less aesthetically pleasing and come in fewer designs.

Popular Wheel Brands And Styles

When choosing wheels for a 2019 Wrangler, consider the trade-offs between weight, strength, aesthetics, and price.

17-inch Wheels: This is the most popular size for off-road focused Wranglers. It allows for a taller sidewall on the tire, which improves ride comfort and off-road performance (better flex, less chance of rim damage).
Method Race Wheels: Known for rugged, stylish designs like the 305 NV and 312 Vex. They offer excellent durability and are popular in off-road communities.
Fuel Off-Road: Offers a vast range of designs, from aggressive to more subtle. Models like the D558 Anza or D576 Impact are common choices.
Vision Wheel: Provides a wide array of affordable and stylish options, such as the 171 Navajo or 375 Warrior.
18-inch and 20-inch Wheels: These sizes are often chosen for a more street-oriented or aggressive stance. They allow for lower-profile tires, which can improve on-road handling and steering response but reduce off-road compliance.
AEV (American Expedition Vehicles): Their 3500HD wheels are specifically designed for JK/JL Wranglers, offering a perfect backspacing for larger tires and a clean, functional look.
Rhino Rack: While known for roof racks, they also offer wheels that complement the Jeep aesthetic.
Mopar: Factory and dealer-offered wheels provide a guaranteed fit and finish, often with designs that enhance the stock look.

Beadlock Vs. Beadlock-capable Wheels

Beadlock Wheels: These wheels physically clamp the tire bead to the rim, preventing the tire from de-beading (coming off the rim) even at very low tire pressures. This is crucial for extreme rock crawling and desert racing where maximum traction is needed. They are generally more expensive and may not be street legal in all areas.
Beadlock-Capable Wheels: These wheels have provisions for a beadlock ring but do not come with one installed. You can add a beadlock ring later if needed. They offer a compromise, providing enhanced security at low pressures without the full cost or complexity of true beadlocks.

Common Tire And Wheel Combinations For The 2019 Jeep Wrangler

The “best” combination depends on your goals. Here are some popular setups:

1. Balanced All-terrain Build (daily Driver + Weekend Trails)

Wheel Size: 17-inch
Wheel Offset/Backspacing: Mild negative offset (e.g., -10mm to -12mm) or around 4.5 inches of backspacing.
Tire Size: 33-inch (e.g., LT285/70R17) or 34-inch (e.g., 285/75R17).
Tire Type: All-Terrain (BFGoodrich KO2, Falken Wildpeak A/T3W).
Lift Needed: Often none, or a mild 1-2 inch lift for optimal clearance and aesthetics.
Pros: Excellent on-road comfort, good off-road capability, minimal impact on fuel economy, no need for re-gearing or speedometer correction in most cases.
Cons: Limited capability on extreme trails compared to larger setups.