How To Choose Tires For Ford Mustang

By Nick Marchenko, PhD

Updated: October 20, 2023

Tires, right, they're sort of like the comfy trainers you wear to the gym. But instead of keeping your feet comfy, they're looking after something a bit...heftier. Say, for example, when you buy those trainers on sale – the ones that weren’t really a bargain – they end up giving you blisters, and suddenly that jog isn't fun anymore.

And it's not any different with Ford Mustang tires. Slap on a dodgy set, and you're in for a ride that's...well, less thrilling. Your Mustang might feel a bit off, losing some of its characteristic growl and grip. You'll notice things like unexpected vibrations or, heavens forbid, the mournful howl of rubber that's not quite up to the job.

Worse still, that means more than just an unpleasant drive. We're talking safety here. Poor tire choice could mean you're braking just a tad too late or not gripping the road when you really need to.

So, a tip from someone who's been around cars a fair bit: don't skimp on tires for your Ford Mustang. They're the unsung heroes of every adventure you'll have in that beast.

Let’s get our hands dirty and dive into the world of Mustang rubber, shall we?

Key Takeaways:

• Quality tires can make or break the performance of a Ford Mustang. They’re crucial for safety and a darn good drive.
• Size, speed ratings, and other jargons are more than just numbers – they matter when choosing the perfect tire for your Mustang.
• Keep a keen eye on your tire’s tread and overall condition – it tells you when they’re ready to retire.
• If you're hunting for used tires, be sharp. Check tread depth and look out for signs of too many birthdays or past injuries.

Selecting the Right Tires for the Ford Mustang

Not all tires are created equal. Some might fit your Mustang's year model like a glove, while others...not so much. So, let's unravel the mystery.

Which tire size suits your Ford Mustang?

Ever gawked at the hieroglyphics on your tires and wondered what on earth they mean? Let’s decrypt this tire code.

Take 205/55R18 for instance.

The "205" bit? That's how wide the tire is, from one side to the other. The “55” part, that's a percentage of the width, which gives you the height of the tire. So, a 205 wide tire with a “55” aspect ratio is about 112.75 mm tall.

And the "R"? It means the tire’s got a radial tread pattern. There are others, but you’ll probably find them in a museum. Lastly, "18" is the size of the wheel it fits onto. Just remember, the tire and rim sizes need to match up. So, don't try fitting an 18-inch tire on a 20-inch rim. It won't end well.

The good folks at Ford have recommendations on what tires fit each Mustang model year. It's all in the owner’s manual.

Stick close to these guidelines. Stray too far, and you might get tires that rub against parts they shouldn’t, which is never a good thing. Remember, factory-approved tires are the way to go. Need a list? You can check them out right here.

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Ford Mustang Speed Rating: Which Type Are You?

Alright, let's get to the crux of the matter. When you slide behind the wheel, are you a relaxed cruiser or do you get that mischievous glint in your eye, dreaming of unleashing all those horses?

Here's the thing: Your tire's speed rating isn't just a random letter scribbled on the side. It's a vital bit of info, signifying the top speed that particular rubber can safely handle. Ignoring it could, well, blow up in your face!

This little symbol gives a nod to the tire's maximum allowed speed under its load. And for the majestic Ford Mustang, a car that screams performance, getting the right speed rating is paramount.

That code, gracefully etched onto the tire's side, correlates to a max speed, either in good old mph or the more continental km/h. Here’s the rundown:

• L (120 km/h or 75 mph): passenger car tires intended for sedans, hatchbacks, or minivans.
• M (130 km/h or 81 mph): this rating is also for passenger cars; however, it offers higher speed capability than "L”-rated tires.
• N (140 km/h or 87 mph): tires created for sports sedans and high-performance vehicles.
• P (150 km/h or 93 mph): tires intended for high-performance sedans, coupes, and some sports cars.
• Q (160 km/h or 99 mph):  tires designed for performance-oriented vehicles like sedans and crossovers.
• R (170 km/h or 106 mph): common on light trucks, SUVs, and some passenger cars.
• S (180 km/h or 112 mph): basic tire rating for many family sedans and coupes.
• T (190 km/h or 118 mph): applied to a wide range of passenger and touring tires.
• U (200 km/h or 124 mph): such tires are great for sporty performance vehicles.
• H (210 km/h or 130 mph): suitable for sports cars, luxury sedans, and higher-performance vehicles.
• V (240 km/h or 149 mph): created for high-performance and sports car tires.
• W (270 km/h or 168 mph): high-performance rating, commonly seen on sports and supercars.
• Y (300 km/h or 186 mph): intended for ultra-high-performance and exotic sports cars.
• (Y) or (ZR): for supercars and hypercars with top speeds that exceed 186 mph (usually designated with specific manufacturer approvals).

Ford Mustang Load Index: What's Your Pony Carrying?

So, how do you use your Mustang? Zipping around town, weekend getaways, or perhaps you've packed it with some extra gear for an epic road trip? Depending on your Mustang’s purpose, you'll need the right tires to bear the load.

Every tire has its limit - a load index that dictates the maximum weight it can safely endure. Going overboard is, simply put, a no-no.

Translated from tire speak, the load index is a number you'll find on the tire, indicating how much weight a properly inflated tire can safely bear. With the Ford Mustang's power and capability, ensuring your tires can handle the load (be it passengers, cargo, or both) is essential.

This index usually comes as a two or three-digit figure, symbolizing a weight capacity either in our beloved pounds or the more metric kilograms.

For a bit of a visual, here’s a glance at some standard tire load indexes:

Load Index	Weight Capacity (kg)	Weight Capacity (lbs)	Vehicle Types
70	335	739	Compact cars and smaller vehicles
80	450	992	Small to midsize sedans and hatchbacks
90	600	1323	Larger sedans, SUVs, and some small trucks
100	800	1764	Larger SUVs, minivans, and light trucks
110	1060	2337	Heavy-duty SUVs, trucks, and vans
120	1400	3086	Larger trucks and commercial vehicles
130	1900	4189	Heavy-duty trucks and vans
140	2240	4938	Commercial trucks and buses

Mustang Muscle, Meet the Road

When you're powering a beast like the Mustang, it's not just about the roar of the engine - the rubber that meets the road matters too. So, what's with those letters on the tires? P, C, and LT? Here's the scoop:

• P - passenger car tires. The bread and butter of tire designations. Quick, smooth, and loves the open road. Perfect for those leisurely drives or even a spirited sprint now and then.
• LT - light truck. Now, the Mustang isn't a truck, but if you're dabbling in the world of pickups, these are your go-to. Built for heavier duties and rougher terrains.
• C - commercial. These are for the big boys. Think heavy-duty, cargo-toting monsters. While they might not be for the Mustang, it's always good to know they exist!

Where's the Mustang Galloping Today?

Think about it. Are you cruising along the boulevards or charging up mountain trails? Where you unleash your Mustang influences the tires you choose.

If the wilderness is calling, you might consider those rugged off-road tires. But remember, they're a bit of a handful on city roads.

If it's a mix of city streets and the occasional off-road adventure, all-terrain tires can be a Mustang's best friend. They'll get you through most challenges while still behaving impeccably in urban settings.

But if you're all about smooth asphalt and highways, stick to regular tires. The Mustang will thank you.

Changing Seasons, Changing Treads

Ah, winter. It might look picturesque, but for drivers, it can be a slippery mess. This isn't the time for summer tires; they'll have your Mustang slipping more than a toddler on an ice rink!

Winter tires come in two flavors: studded and studless.

Studded tires

These have tiny metal studs that grip onto icy roads. Imagine crampons for your Mustang. They're brilliant for ice but remember, they can be a bit noisy and might chew up the roads a touch.

Studless (friction) tires

These rely on some clever rubber compounds and tread designs to give you grip in the cold. They're a bit kinder to the roads and work wonders in the snow and slush. Perfect for cold winters without the metal bite.

But remember, it's all about where you live. Warm summers and frosty winters? Go for two sets: summer and winter. Mild winters? An all-season tire could do the trick. But if winter's just a storybook concept for you, keep those summer tires on and enjoy the ride!

Inside the Tire: The Tube Question

So, what's the magic that keeps our mighty Mustangs hugging the tarmac? Well, air, of course! But where is it, and how's it contained?

You've got the tube tires - picture an old bicycle tire - where air is cozily wrapped inside an inner tube. And then you've got the tubeless ones where, well, there's no inner tube. The air sits directly inside the tire.

Tube tires are like that sturdy old leather jacket; even if you scuff it up, you're still warm inside. Damage the outer layer, and you can still drive on. But a tiny prick on a tubeless? That's a pit stop, my friend.

But every coin has two sides. Tube tires add a bit more weight, and that's more work for your Mustang's suspension.

It seems like the world's moving towards tubeless. But how can you tell the difference?

• For the classic tube types, look out for a "Tube" or "T" on the sidewall.
• The sleeker tubeless? They're labelled "Tubeless," "TL," or "TLess."

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When to trade in the old boots on your Mustang?

Now, tires, as much as we wish, aren't like fine wine; they don't get better with age. And riding on a worn-out set? That's like dancing on a wet floor - risky! A Mustang deserves shoes that match its swagger, and worn-out tires just won't do.

Here's when to bid farewell to the old and welcome the new:

• The tread's looking thin. It's what keeps you glued to the road. If it's looking worn, it's a goodbye hug waiting to happen.
• Feels like you're wrestling the steering wheel? That's not you, it's the tires losing grip.
• Too much wheelspin. Tires should stick, not slip, especially on a dry day. If they're spinning too much, it's new tire time.
• Hearing ghostly tire screams? Could be the tread's sad song or just old, worn-out rubber.
• Feel like you're in a massage chair? That's probably your tires being uneven. Keep them balanced, and the ride smooth.
• Steering wheel's shaking like it's in a dance-off? Your tires might be the reason and a sign they're nearing their end.
• Need a longer runway to stop? Longer braking distances are a big red flag. Good grip is non-negotiable for road safety.

Picking Up Second-Hand Tyres for the Mustang? Here’s Your Guide!

Look, not every day's a shopping spree day. Sometimes, you might want some decent rubber for your roaring Mustang without busting the bank. Maybe it's for an off-track day, or just getting by, but that's not the real story here.

Buying pre-loved tyres is a bit like picking up vintage clothes – you've got to have a keen eye, and know what you're looking for. After all, you don’t want your Mustang feeling let down.

Now, just because someone assures you it's "barely used" or "almost new", don't just jump in. Here are a few things you should check:

1. It's All About the Tread

Like the sole of a shoe, mate. You're after something between 8–10 mm. And if it looks uneven or lopsided, it might be a sign they've been a little...misused.

2. Cracking Under Pressure

Spot any cracks? If yes, it’s like buying jeans with holes. Might look trendy, but not ideal for your Mustang's next gallop.

3. Watch Out for Bulges

Any bulges or "bubbles"? That tyre's been through a rough night and probably isn’t safe to ride on anymore.

4. Signs of a Quick Fix

A patch here, a stitch there. Repairs on a tire might be a red flag, especially if it looks amateurish. You don't want any surprises mid-drive, do you?

5. Age Isn’t Just a Number

Check their birthday. Tyres, like good cheese, have a shelf life – 5-8 years at best. And if they’re entering their teenage years? Just walk away.

6. Give Them a Feel

Your Mustang's shoes need to have some spring in them. Give them a good squeeze. If they’re feeling a bit hard and unyielding, they might be past their prime.

Bringing It All Home

Your Mustang’s roar, its elegance on the road, that sheer thrill – a lot of it's down to the tyres.

Whether you’re saving a penny or two, or just for kicks, remember to choose wisely. Sometimes, it might just be worth it to splurge a little and get a brand-new set. Your Mustang, and more importantly, you, deserve the best.