If you’re thinking about upgrading your Jeep Wrangler tires, you might wonder if the 285 70R17 size is a good fit. This tire size is popular for drivers who want extra traction, better looks, and improved off-road ability.
But does it really fit on a Jeep Wrangler without problems? Let’s look at what you need to know before making the change, and how it could affect your ride.
What Does 285 70r17 Mean?
The numbers and letters in 285 70R17 tell you important things about the tire:
- 285: The width in millimeters (285 mm)
- 70: Aspect ratio, or height of the sidewall (70% of the width)
- R: Radial construction
- 17: Fits a 17-inch wheel
This tire measures about 32. 7 inches in diameter and 11.
2 inches wide. Many Wranglers come with 245/75R17 or 255/75R17 tires, which are narrower and slightly shorter.
Will 285 70r17 Fit A Jeep Wrangler?
For most Jeep Wrangler models (JK, JL), 285 70R17 tires will physically fit, but there are a few things to watch out for:
- Stock Suspension (No Lift)
- The tires will fit on stock wheels with no major rubbing, but it’s close.
- Turning the wheel fully or going over large bumps may cause slight rubbing on the fender liners.
- Off-road, the risk of rubbing increases due to more suspension travel.
- Aftermarket Wheels
- If you use wheels with less backspacing (4.5” or less), you get better clearance for the wider tire.
- Factory wheels with spacers (1.25”) can also help prevent rubbing.
- Lift Kits
- A 2-inch lift or higher is ideal for 285 70R17 tires, especially if you go off-road.
- A small lift gives more space for the tires to move, reducing rubbing on fenders and control arms.
- Fender Clearance
- Some models, like the Rubicon, have higher fender flares. This gives more room for bigger tires.
- Sahara or Sport trims may need fender modifications for serious off-roading.
Comparison: 285 70r17 Vs Stock Wrangler Tires
Changing to 285 70R17 affects your Jeep’s look and performance. Here’s how it compares to common stock tire sizes:
| Tire Size | Width (inches) | Diameter (inches) | Sidewall (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 245/75R17 | 9.6 | 31.5 | 7.2 |
| 255/75R17 | 10.0 | 32.1 | 7.5 |
| 285/70R17 | 11.2 | 32.7 | 7.8 |
With 285 70R17 tires, your Jeep sits a bit higher and looks more aggressive. The wider tire also gives more grip off-road and a smoother ride on rough surfaces.
Pros And Cons Of 285 70r17 Tires
Let’s break down the main advantages and drawbacks:
Pros
- Improved traction on dirt, mud, and rocks
- Bolder appearance (wider, taller stance)
- Higher ground clearance (about 0.6 inches more)
- Better ride comfort on rough roads
Cons
- Slightly reduced fuel economy due to more weight and rolling resistance
- Speedometer error (will read lower than your actual speed)
- Possible rubbing without wheel spacers or a lift
- Heavier steering feel
What You Need To Install 285 70r17 Tires
Switching to 285 70R17 isn’t just about swapping tires. You might need:
- Wheel spacers (1.25” recommended) if using stock wheels
- Aftermarket wheels with correct backspacing (4.5” or less)
- Lift kit (2” lift helps for off-road use)
- Speedometer recalibration to correct speed reading
- Tire carrier reinforcement for the heavier spare
Many owners skip the lift if they use their Jeep mostly on-road. But for off-road adventures, extra clearance is a smart move.
Real-world Examples And Data
Many Jeep owners have made this upgrade. Here’s what they report:
- On-Road Use: Most say there’s little to no rubbing on the street, but tight turns may just graze the fender liner.
- Off-Road Use: With full suspension flex, some rubbing is common unless you have a lift or trimmed fenders.
- Looks: The wider stance gets lots of compliments and makes the Jeep look more “trail-ready.”
A Jeep forum survey showed over 60% of JK and JL owners running 285 70R17 tires chose a 2” lift for best performance and appearance.
Cost And Maintenance Considerations
Upgrading to 285 70R17 tires isn’t cheap. Here’s a quick look at what to expect:
| Item | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Set of 285 70R17 tires | $900–$1,400 |
| Wheel spacers (set of 4) | $100–$200 |
| 2-inch lift kit | $300–$700 |
| Speedometer calibration | $80–$150 |
Regular rotation, balancing, and correct air pressure help your new tires last longer. Heavier tires can also put more strain on brakes and suspension, so keep up with maintenance.
Non-obvious Insights For Beginners
- Backspacing Matters: Many new owners focus only on tire size, but wheel backspacing is just as important. Too much backspacing can cause rubbing on the suspension, not just the fenders.
- TPMS Sensors: Don’t forget about Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensors. If you buy new wheels, you’ll need to transfer or replace your sensors, or you’ll get warning lights on your dash.
Before you upgrade, check your state’s laws about tire coverage—some places require the tire tread to be fully covered by fender flares.
Upgrading to 285 70R17 tires can give your Jeep Wrangler a fresh look and more off-road power. With the right setup—wheels, lift, spacers—you’ll enjoy better performance and avoid common fitment issues. For more technical tire data, you can check Tire-Size.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will 285 70r17 Tires Fit A Stock Jeep Wrangler Without Rubbing?
They usually fit on stock wheels, but there may be slight rubbing at full turn or during off-road flex. Adding spacers or a small lift helps avoid this.
Do I Need To Recalibrate My Speedometer With 285 70r17 Tires?
Yes, your speedometer will read slower than your actual speed. A calibration tool or a dealer can fix this.
Will My Gas Mileage Drop With Bigger Tires?
Yes, you may lose 1–2 mpg because the tires are heavier and wider, causing more rolling resistance.
Can I Use My Stock Wheels With 285 70r17 Tires?
Yes, but wheel spacers (1. 25”) are recommended for better clearance and to reduce the risk of rubbing.
Are 285 70r17 Tires Good For Daily Driving?
They work well for both daily driving and off-road use. The ride may feel a bit stiffer, and you’ll notice heavier steering, but many owners are happy with the upgrade.
