Finding the Right OEM Wheels for Your Ford Explorer | Overview

Finding the Right OEM Wheels for Your Ford Explorer

When it comes to replacing your Ford Explorer's wheels, using original equipment manufacturer (OEM) wheels is often the best option. OEM wheels are made by the same manufacturer as your vehicle's original wheels, so you know they will fit properly and meet Ford's specifications.

Benefits of Installing OEM Wheels on Your Ford Explorer

There are several key benefits to choosing OEM wheels for your Ford Explorer:

• Proper fit - Since OEM wheels are made for your specific vehicle, you can be confident they will align and fit correctly without any modifications needed.
• Retain resale value - Keeping genuine Ford wheels on your Explorer helps preserve its resale value down the road.
• Maintain handling and performance - The original wheel size, offset, and design plays an important role in your vehicle's handling characteristics and performance.
• Enhanced safety - OEM wheels meet Ford's stringent testing and quality control standards for safety.
• Retain warranty coverage - Installing non-OEM wheels may void portions of your vehicle warranty.

Where to Buy OEM Ford Explorer Wheels

There are a few places Explorer owners can purchase OEM wheels for their vehicles:

• Ford dealership parts department - This is often the most convenient option but tends to be more expensive.
• Independent auto parts stores - Many national chains like AutoZone offer some OEM Ford wheels at discounted pricing.
• Online retailers - Websites like TascaParts.com, FordPartsGiant.com, and OEMFordParts.com sell genuine Ford wheels shipped directly to you often at lower prices.
• Salvage yards - Check with local junkyards and salvage yards to find used OEM Ford Explorer wheels in good condition.
• eBay motors - Search Ford parts listings on eBay to find new and used OEM wheels for sale by various sellers.

Choosing the Correct Wheel Specs

To order the right replacement OEM wheels for your Ford Explorer, you'll need to match them to your vehicle's wheel specifications which can be found on the tire information sticker inside the driver's side door jamb. Key details to note are:

• Bolt pattern - The bolt pattern indicates the number of wheel lugs and the diameter of the circle they make. Ford Explorers are typically 5x114.3 or 5x127.
• Wheel diameter - Measured from the outer edge to outer edge across the wheel, typical diameters are 17 inches and 18 inches.
• Wheel width - Widths generally range from 7 inches to 8.5 inches for the Explorer depending on option packages.
• Offset - The offset is the distance from the wheel's hub mounting surface to its center line. Explorer specs range from +35mm to +55mm.

Wheel Finishes Available

Ford offers Explorer wheels in a variety of finishes to complement different trim levels and colors. Common OEM wheel finishes include:

• Painted - Painted gray, black or silver metallic are typical solid color finishes.
• Polished - A shiny polished metal look often paired with chrome accents.
• Machine faced - Machine smoothing with a metallic silver look around the outer wheel edge.
• Black painted pockets - Gloss black rear inner wheel sections provide a distinctive contrasting accent.

Maintaining Your New OEM Ford Explorer Wheels

To keep your new Ford Explorer's original wheels looking their best for miles to come, be sure to practice timely cleaning and preventative maintenance:

Regular Wheel Cleaning Tips

• Hand wash wheels often using soap and water to prevent brake dust and grime buildup.
• Use a separate wash mitt or sponge just for wheels to avoid scratching the finish.
• Rinse well before drying to remove all debris stuck in crevices.
• Shine a spray wax or wheel protectant once fully dried to further resist staining.

Avoid Curb Damage

Scrubbing the side of your wheels against curbs when parking is a common cause of cosmetic damage. Install wheel rim protectors or take extra care when maneuvering to add miles of good-looking wear.

Watch for Signs of Trouble

Have any new wheels properly balanced and aligned right away. Listen for unusual humming noises indicating potential wheel bearing or axle trouble. Vibration or shimmying likely signals a bent rim or suspension issue needing prompt service.

By ordering new OEM explorer wheels matched precisely to year and model, owners benefit from proper fit while maintaining factory performance. With appropriate occasional cleaning and driving care, Ford's original wheels deliver lasting style mile after mile.

FAQs

What are the benefits of installing OEM wheels on my Ford Explorer?

The main benefits are proper fit, retaining resale value, maintaining factory handling and performance, meeting Ford's testing standards, and retaining warranty coverage.

Where can I buy genuine Ford Explorer OEM wheels?

Options include Ford dealerships, independent auto parts stores, online retailers that specialize in OEM Ford parts, salvage/junkyards, and eBay motors.

How do I know I'm ordering the correct replacement Explorer OEM wheels?

Carefully match your new wheels to the bolt pattern, wheel diameter, wheel width and offset that is listed on the tire sticker inside your driver's side door jamb.

What wheel finishes are available for my Explorer's OEM wheels?

Ford offers several finishes like painted gray/black/silver, polished metal, machine faced, and black painted wheel pockets to complement different model trim levels.