Choosing Tires for Small Pickup Trucks 2WD

When replacing tires on a small 2WD pickup truck, start by checking the vehicle's door-jamb placard, usually located on the driver's-side door frame. This placard lists the manufacturer's recommended tire size and load/speed rating for your specific vehicle. Most small 2WD pickups in this class wear sizes around 255/70R16, though yours may differ. Match both the size designation and the load index and speed rating exactly, as these specifications ensure proper handling, safety, and accuracy of your speedometer and odometer.

Next, decide which seasonal type suits your driving conditions. All-season tires work well for drivers in mild climates or those who see occasional winter weather but prefer a single tire year-round. Summer tires offer better grip and handling in warm conditions but should not be used in snow or ice. Winter tires provide superior traction in cold, snowy, or icy conditions and are recommended if you regularly encounter winter weather.

Before purchasing, verify fitment by confirming the tire size, load rating, and speed rating against your door-jamb placard one final time. This step prevents ordering incorrect tires and ensures your replacement set meets your truck's engineering requirements.

Match the size, load and speed rating

Start from the original-equipment size for the segment and keep the same load index and speed rating, or higher — these protect the vehicle's carrying capacity and handling. Then match the season type to how you drive. Whatever you choose, the size on your door-jamb tire placard is what to confirm against, because trims within a class differ.

Typical tire size for this class → · Find your exact vehicle →