Jeep Cherokee XJ biggest tire size: stock and lifted
The biggest tire owners run on a Jeep Cherokee XJ at every lift height, with the trimming it takes, the wheel specs you need and the lift kits that get you there.
In a NAXJA thread, members agree a 235/75R15 (about 29 in) on the stock 15x7 wheels with 5.25 in backspacing fits fine, and treat a 30x9.50R15 as the practical limit. One owner's '88 on 30x9.50s rubbed only the front control arms at full lock, which a steering-stop adjustment fixes at the cost of turning circle. A 255/70R16 (about 30 in) rubbed the rear fenders on a loaded 2000. Less backspacing pushes the tire out toward the flares.
Biggest Jeep Cherokee XJ tire at every lift
| LIFT | BIGGEST TIRE | WHAT IT TAKES |
|---|---|---|
| Stock | 235/75R15 | NAXJA thread: 235/75R15 fits fine on the stock 15x7 (5.25 in backspacing). 30x9.50s rubbed the front control arms at full lock on an '88, and a 255/70R16 rubbed the rear fenders on a loaded 2000; one member says 1997-and-later trucks have less room than earlier ones |
| 3 in | 31x10.50R15 | Expect minor rubbing at full lock; trim the front bumper ends and fender corners and roll the rear quarter seam |
| 4.5 in | 33x12.50R15 | Per ExtremeTerrain's fitment table, on 15x8–17x9 wheels with −12 to +6 mm offset; trimming still likely |
Jeep Cherokee XJ wheel and tire specs
| Factory tire sizes | 215/75R15 · 225/70R15 · 225/75R15 |
|---|---|
| Bolt pattern | 5x114.3 (5x4.5") |
| Center bore | 71.5 mm |
| Wheel offset | +10 to +25 mm (stock 15x7) |
| Lug thread | 1/2"-20 |
Lift kits, wheels and tires for the Jeep Cherokee XJ
The XJ responds well to a modest lift. Coils and add-a-leafs or new packs clear 30–31 in tires, and long-arm kits are for serious rock work.
Stock plastic bumpers don't hold a winch or survive a stump. Steel bumpers add recovery points and approach angle.
Fitment comes from owners and specialists; wheel width, offset, trimming and bump stops change what fits. Check clearance at full lock and full flex before you buy. Some links are affiliate links.