Hey there, Jeep enthusiasts! So, you're cruising around in your awesome 2020 Jeep Gladiator Overland, and you're thinking about sprucing things up with some new tires, right? Awesome! Getting the right tire size is super important, not just for looks, but also for performance and safety. This guide will break down everything you need to know about the 2020 Gladiator Overland tire size, from the stock size to how to go bigger, and we'll even throw in some tips to make sure you get it right. Let's dive in, guys!

Understanding Your 2020 Gladiator Overland

Before we jump into tire sizes, let's chat about your ride. The 2020 Jeep Gladiator Overland is a beast of a truck, built for both on-road comfort and off-road adventures. It’s got that classic Jeep DNA, mixed with the practicality of a pickup. Knowing your Overland's specs is key to choosing the right tires. It comes with a specific suspension setup and wheel well dimensions that influence the tire sizes you can safely and effectively use. When you select the wrong size, it can mess with your truck's handling, fuel efficiency, and even cause damage to the vehicle. So, taking the time to understand your Overland's capabilities is a crucial first step.

The Overland trim typically boasts some great features, which can affect your tire choices. For example, the type of suspension might limit how large you can go with your tires without making modifications like a lift kit. The Overland is often equipped with specific wheel sizes (usually 18-inch wheels), which will dictate the diameter and width of the tires you can install without swapping out the rims. The weight of your truck, which is substantial for a pickup, is another factor. Heavier tires can affect how the truck accelerates and brakes. Furthermore, if you plan to use your Gladiator for towing or carrying heavy loads, you must consider the tire's load rating to ensure it can handle the extra weight. This includes knowing the axle weight and the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of your Gladiator. Also, if you regularly drive off-road, think about tires with aggressive tread patterns for better grip on different terrains. If you primarily stick to paved roads, a tire that prioritizes ride comfort and low road noise might be more your speed.

Before changing tires, it's wise to review your owner's manual. Your manual has all the manufacturer-recommended tire sizes and specifications, including the right tire pressure for your driving conditions. These guidelines will help you stay within the safe operating parameters of your truck. Then, you can compare your tire choices to the guidelines in the manual to ensure they meet or exceed your needs. There are many different tire brands, and each one offers several tire models designed for various driving scenarios. Consider the climate and road conditions you typically encounter. If you drive in areas with lots of rain or snow, look for tires with excellent wet or snow traction. On the other hand, if you spend most of your time on dry roads, you might choose tires designed for improved handling and reduced rolling resistance. The goal is to choose tires that offer the best balance of performance, safety, and comfort for your particular driving habits.

Remember, choosing the right tires isn't just about the size. Consider factors like tire type (all-terrain, mud-terrain, highway), load index, speed rating, and, of course, your budget. Don't worry, we'll cover all of this in more detail later! But first, let’s get down to the basics.

Stock Tire Size for 2020 Gladiator Overland

Alright, let's get down to brass tacks. The factory-installed tire size on the 2020 Jeep Gladiator Overland is typically 255/70R18. This size is a sweet spot, providing a good balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability. The numbers mean the following:

• 255: This is the tire's width in millimeters.
• 70: This is the aspect ratio, meaning the height of the tire's sidewall as a percentage of its width (70% of 255mm).
• R: This indicates radial construction.
• 18: This is the wheel diameter in inches.

These tires are designed to work well with the Overland's stock suspension and provide a decent ride quality. They're also usually chosen to provide a reasonable amount of grip on various surfaces. However, as we all know, stock isn't always the best.

Now, about those 18-inch wheels... They look fantastic, and the 255/70R18 tires fit perfectly. But what if you are aiming for something different? This is when you start to consider other sizes. Keep in mind that when going for a different size, it’s vital to ensure it fits without rubbing against your fenders, suspension components, or other parts of the vehicle, particularly when turning or going over bumps.

One common upgrade for the Gladiator is to increase the tire size for a more aggressive look and improved off-road performance. However, going too big can cause rubbing, as well as change your speedometer's accuracy and affect your truck's handling. That's why it is critical to know what tire sizes your Gladiator can handle before going for the upgrade. Always make sure to consider your driving needs and the kind of terrain you usually drive on.

Can You Go Bigger? Exploring Larger Tire Options

Absolutely! Many Gladiator Overland owners want to upgrade their tires. It's a great way to improve your Jeep's appearance and enhance its off-road prowess. However, you'll need to know what you're doing.

• Without Modifications: You can generally go up to a 275/70R18 without any modifications. This is a pretty popular upgrade because it gives you a slightly more aggressive look and a bit more ground clearance without any significant changes to your Jeep.
• With a Lift Kit: If you're looking for something more, a lift kit opens up a world of possibilities. A 2-inch lift will often allow you to run tires up to 35 inches in diameter, which will significantly improve your off-road capability and give your Gladiator a seriously tough look.

Important Considerations:

• Rubbing: Larger tires can rub against the wheel wells, especially when turning or during off-road articulation. This is where a lift kit comes in handy, as it provides extra clearance. You might also need to trim your fenders or install aftermarket fender flares.
• Speedometer Accuracy: Changing tire size affects your speedometer. You can correct this with a programmer or by recalibrating your speedometer.
• Gear Ratio: Larger tires can impact your truck's gearing, making it feel sluggish. Regearing your axles might be necessary to restore performance.

If you decide to go with a significantly larger tire size, you'll likely want to regear the axles to maintain performance, especially if you have the V6 engine. The stock gear ratio may not be optimized for larger tires, so regearing can make a huge difference in acceleration and overall drivability.

Tire Types: Choosing the Right One for Your Needs

Choosing the right tire type is as important as the size. Here's a breakdown of the most common types:

• All-Terrain (AT): A great all-around choice. AT tires offer good on-road manners and decent off-road performance. They're a popular choice for the Gladiator because they can handle a variety of conditions.
• Mud-Terrain (MT): Designed for serious off-roading. MT tires have aggressive tread patterns that provide excellent grip in mud, sand, and other challenging terrains. They tend to be noisier on the road and can wear faster than other types.
• Highway Terrain (HT): These tires are optimized for on-road use. They offer a smooth ride, good fuel economy, and long tread life. They're not the best choice for off-roading.

Consider your driving habits and the types of terrain you'll encounter most often when selecting a tire type. For example, if you spend most of your time on paved roads and occasionally hit some dirt trails, all-terrain tires are probably your best bet. If you regularly tackle challenging off-road trails, mud-terrain tires are the way to go. Make sure you know where you will be driving to make the right selection of tires.

Load Index and Speed Rating: What Do They Mean?

Don't overlook these important details! The load index indicates how much weight a tire can carry, and the speed rating indicates the tire's maximum speed. You must choose tires with a load index and speed rating that meet or exceed your vehicle's requirements. These are critical for safety.

• Load Index: This is a numerical code that corresponds to the maximum weight the tire can support. You'll find this information on the tire's sidewall. Make sure your new tires have a load index that meets or exceeds the load capacity of your original tires.
• Speed Rating: This is a letter code that indicates the tire's maximum speed. Again, you'll find this on the sidewall. Choose tires with a speed rating that meets or exceeds your vehicle's requirements.

Tips for Buying Tires

Okay, so you're ready to buy! Here are some tips to help you get the best deal and ensure you get the right tires:

• Shop Around: Prices can vary significantly between different tire retailers. Compare prices from multiple sources, including local tire shops and online retailers.
• Read Reviews: See what other Gladiator owners are saying about different tire brands and models. This can give you valuable insights into performance, durability, and value.
• Consider Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): The 2020 Gladiator Overland has a TPMS. Make sure any new tires you purchase are compatible with your TPMS to prevent any warning lights from coming on.
• Get a Professional Installation: Proper installation is crucial for tire performance and safety. Have your new tires mounted and balanced by a qualified technician.
• Check the Build Date: Make sure the tires aren't too old. Tires degrade over time, even if they haven't been used. Look for the DOT date code on the sidewall to find out when the tire was manufactured.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Gladiator

There you have it, guys! We have gone through the details of 2020 Gladiator Overland tire size. Choosing the right tires for your Gladiator is a balance of aesthetics, performance, and practicality. By understanding your vehicle's specifications, considering your driving needs, and doing your research, you can find the perfect tires to enhance your Gladiator's capabilities and appearance. Remember to prioritize safety, always choose tires with the correct load index and speed rating, and consult with a professional if you have any questions. Now go out there and enjoy your awesome Gladiator adventures!

Do you have any more questions about your Gladiator? Let us know! Happy trails!**