So, you're thinking about slapping some massive 37-inch tires on your 2023 Ford Bronco, huh? Awesome! You're in the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from why you might want to make this upgrade to what you need to consider before diving in. We'll cover the benefits, the potential drawbacks, the necessary modifications, and even some recommendations. Let's get started and transform your Bronco into the ultimate off-road beast!

Why Upgrade to 37-Inch Tires?

Okay, let's dive into the juicy stuff – why would you even want to upgrade to 37-inch tires on your 2023 Ford Bronco? There are several compelling reasons, especially if you're serious about off-roading.

• Improved Ground Clearance: This is the big one, guys. Larger tires lift your entire vehicle higher off the ground. This extra clearance lets you roll over bigger obstacles without scraping your undercarriage. Rocks, logs, deep ruts – bring 'em on! With 37-inch tires, your Bronco becomes a rock-crawling, trail-conquering machine.
• Enhanced Approach, Breakover, and Departure Angles: Think of these as your Bronco's angles of attack and escape. Bigger tires improve these angles, meaning you can approach steep inclines, navigate tricky transitions, and descend sharp drop-offs with less risk of damage. Essentially, you'll be able to tackle more challenging terrain.
• Better Traction: More tire surface area in contact with the ground equals more grip. This is especially crucial in loose or slippery conditions like mud, sand, and snow. 37-inch tires provide a significantly larger contact patch, giving you superior traction and control. Imagine effortlessly gliding through that mud pit your buddy got stuck in!.
• Aggressive Look: Let's be honest, the aesthetics are a big part of it too. A Bronco with 37-inch tires just looks badass. It gives your rig a more imposing and capable stance, turning heads wherever you go. If you want your Bronco to stand out from the crowd, this is a surefire way to do it.
• Increased Off-Road Capability: Ultimately, all these factors combine to dramatically increase your Bronco's overall off-road capability. You'll be able to go further, tackle tougher trails, and explore more remote areas. If you're an avid off-roader, upgrading to 37-inch tires is one of the best investments you can make.

Think about it: increased ground clearance means you're less likely to high-center on obstacles. Improved approach and departure angles prevent you from scraping bumpers and rocker panels. The enhanced traction gives you more confidence and control in challenging situations. And, of course, the aggressive look is just the cherry on top.

Potential Drawbacks of 37-Inch Tires

Alright, now for the not-so-fun part. While 37-inch tires can seriously enhance your Bronco's capabilities, they also come with some potential downsides. It's important to be aware of these before you make the leap so you can be fully prepared.

• Increased Wear and Tear: Bigger tires are heavier, which puts more stress on your Bronco's suspension, axles, and steering components. This can lead to increased wear and tear and potentially shorten the lifespan of these parts. Be prepared for more frequent maintenance and potential repairs down the road. Think of it like this: you're asking your Bronco to work harder, so it's going to get tired faster.
• Reduced Fuel Economy: All that extra weight and rolling resistance will definitely take a toll on your fuel economy. Expect to see a noticeable decrease in MPG, especially around town. If you're concerned about gas prices, this is something to seriously consider. Basically, you'll be visiting the gas station more often.
• Altered Handling: The larger diameter of 37-inch tires can affect your Bronco's handling, particularly on paved roads. You might notice a decrease in steering response and an increase in body roll. It's important to adjust your driving style accordingly and be aware of these changes. It won't handle like a sports car anymore, that's for sure.
• Calibration Issues: When you change your tire size, your speedometer and odometer will no longer be accurate. You'll need to recalibrate them to ensure accurate readings. This usually involves using a programmer or tuner to adjust the vehicle's computer. Otherwise, you'll be guessing how fast you're really going.
• Cost: Upgrading to 37-inch tires is not a cheap endeavor. The tires themselves are expensive, and you'll likely need to factor in the cost of other modifications, such as a lift kit, to make them fit properly. Be prepared to open your wallet!.

It's also worth noting that larger tires can affect your Bronco's braking performance. The increased weight and rolling resistance can make it harder to stop quickly, especially in emergency situations. It's important to be aware of this and adjust your driving accordingly. Give yourself more following distance and brake earlier than you normally would.

Necessary Modifications for 37-Inch Tires

So, you're still on board with the 37-inch tire upgrade? Awesome! Now let's talk about the modifications you'll need to make to your 2023 Ford Bronco to ensure everything fits and functions properly.

• Lift Kit: This is the most essential modification. You'll need a lift kit to create enough clearance for the larger tires. A good rule of thumb is to aim for at least a 2.5-inch to 3.5-inch lift. There are many different types of lift kits available, ranging from simple leveling kits to more elaborate suspension systems. Choose one that suits your budget and off-roading needs.
• Wheel Spacers or New Wheels: Depending on the offset of your factory wheels, you may need to install wheel spacers or purchase new wheels with a more aggressive offset. This will prevent the tires from rubbing against the suspension components or frame. Rubbing is bad, m'kay?
• Body Mount Chop (BMC): This involves trimming or removing a small portion of the body mount behind the front tires. This is often necessary to prevent rubbing at full steering lock, especially when off-roading. It's a relatively common modification, but it's best left to a professional.
• Reinforced Axles (Optional but Recommended): As mentioned earlier, larger tires put more stress on your axles. If you plan on doing serious off-roading, it's a good idea to upgrade to reinforced axles to prevent breakage. This is especially important for the rear axle, which is typically the weakest point.
• Steering Upgrades (Optional but Recommended): The added weight and rolling resistance of 37-inch tires can also strain your steering system. Consider upgrading to heavy-duty steering components, such as a stronger steering box and tie rods, to improve steering feel and prevent premature wear.
• Recalibration: As mentioned earlier, you'll need to recalibrate your speedometer and odometer after installing the larger tires. This can be done using a programmer or tuner that's compatible with your Bronco's computer.

Keep in mind that these are just the most common modifications. Depending on your specific Bronco and how you plan to use it, you may need to make additional changes. It's always a good idea to consult with a qualified mechanic or off-road specialist to get their recommendations.

Choosing the Right 37-Inch Tires

With so many different brands and models of 37-inch tires on the market, choosing the right ones for your Bronco can be overwhelming. Here are a few factors to consider:

• Tire Type: There are three main types of tires: all-terrain, mud-terrain, and rock-crawling. All-terrain tires are a good compromise for on- and off-road use. Mud-terrain tires are designed for maximum traction in mud and other soft surfaces. Rock-crawling tires are specifically designed for grip on rocks and other challenging terrain. Choose the tire type that best suits your driving style and the type of terrain you'll be encountering.
• Load Rating: Make sure the tires you choose have a load rating that's sufficient for your Bronco. The load rating indicates the maximum weight that each tire can carry. You can find the load rating on the tire's sidewall. Don't skimp on this!
• Sidewall Strength: If you plan on doing serious off-roading, look for tires with strong sidewalls. The sidewalls are the most vulnerable part of the tire, and they're prone to punctures and cuts when driving over rocks and other sharp objects. A flat tire in the middle of nowhere is no fun.
• Brand Reputation: Stick with reputable tire brands that have a proven track record of quality and performance. Some popular brands for off-road tires include BFGoodrich, Cooper, Falken, and Nitto.
• Reviews: Read online reviews from other Bronco owners who have used the tires you're considering. This can give you valuable insights into their performance, durability, and overall value.

Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations from other off-roaders or your local tire shop. They can help you narrow down your choices and find the perfect set of 37-inch tires for your Bronco.

Conclusion

Upgrading to 37-inch tires on your 2023 Ford Bronco is a significant undertaking, but the results can be truly transformative. You'll gain improved ground clearance, enhanced traction, and a more aggressive look. However, it's important to be aware of the potential drawbacks, such as increased wear and tear, reduced fuel economy, and altered handling. By carefully considering your needs and making the necessary modifications, you can turn your Bronco into the ultimate off-road machine. So, are you ready to take the plunge? Just remember to do your research, plan ahead, and enjoy the ride!