The Toyota 4Runner is legendary in the off-road community, and adding a 2-inch suspension lift opens the door to more aggressive terrains. For trails rated 6/10 or higher—where large rocks, deep ruts, and steep climbs are the norm—choosing the right tire size is just as important as the lift itself. A poorly matched tire can lead to rubbing, reduced traction, or compromised durability. In this guide, we break down the best tire sizes for a 2-inch lifted 4Runner, explain the key factors that influence performance on demanding trails, and offer practical installation and maintenance advice to keep your rig rolling.

Understanding Tire Size Basics

Before diving into recommendations, it helps to decode the numbers on the sidewall. A typical tire size like 265/70R17 breaks down as follows:

  • 265 – The section width in millimeters, measured from sidewall to sidewall.
  • 70 – The aspect ratio (sidewall height as a percentage of width). A 70-series tire has a sidewall height 70% of the width.
  • R – Radial construction.
  • 17 – Wheel diameter in inches.

For lifted 4Runners, two common sizing conventions are used: metric sizes (e.g., 265/70R17) and flotation sizes (e.g., 33×10.50R17). The overall diameter matters most for ground clearance and gear ratio impact. A 33-inch tire typically measures about 33 inches tall regardless of width, while metric sizes must be calculated. For example, a 285/70R17 roughly equals 32.7 inches tall and 11.2 inches wide. Understanding these numbers helps you compare options and anticipate clearance issues.

If you need a deeper refresher, Tire Rack’s tire size explanation provides an excellent overview.

Benefits of Upgrading Tire Size for a Lifted 4Runner

Going bigger than stock (typically 265/70R17 or 265/65R17) offers several tangible advantages on trails with 6/10+ ratings:

  • Improved Traction: A larger contact patch and more aggressive tread patterns grip loose rock, mud, and uneven surfaces.
  • Increased Ground Clearance: Every inch of tire diameter adds about half an inch of clearance under the axles, helping you clear obstacles.
  • Better Approach/Departure Angles: Taller tires raise the vehicle’s lowest points, reducing the risk of bumper or underbody contact on steep transitions.
  • Enhanced Stability: Wider tires can lower the center of gravity relative to the wheel’s footprint, improving lateral stability on side slopes.

However, larger tires also affect acceleration, fuel economy, and speedometer accuracy. Gear ratio regearing is often recommended if you go beyond a 33-inch tire, but with a 2-inch lift and the sizes we’ll discuss, regearing is optional for most drivers.

The following sizes are proven fits for 5th‑gen 4Runners (2010‑present) with a 2‑inch lift. They provide the off-road capability needed for difficult trails while keeping modifications minimal. Always test fit on your specific vehicle, as wheel offset, trim level, and suspension type can affect clearance.

265/70R17 – The Balanced All‑Rounder

This size matches the OEM option on many 4Runners. It requires no modifications and retains excellent on-road manners. Off-road, it offers a modest increase in sidewall height (more flex and impact absorption) over the stock 265/65R17. On trails rated 6/10, it works well with all-terrains, but for 7+ rated trails, you’ll want a more aggressive tread. It’s a safe choice for daily drivers who occasionally hit moderate trails.

275/70R17 – Slightly Wider, No Rubbing

At roughly 32.2 inches tall and 10.8 inches wide, the 275/70R17 fits many lifted 4Runners without rubbing, provided the wheel offset is close to stock (+15 to +20). The extra width improves stability and traction on loose surfaces. It’s a favorite among overlanders who want a little more bite without trimming. Many all-terrain and mud-terrain tires are available in this size.

285/70R17 – The Sweet Spot for Aggressive Off‑Roading

Measuring about 32.7 inches tall and 11.2 inches wide, the 285/70R17 is arguably the most popular upgrade for 2‑inch lifted 4Runners. It significantly increases ground clearance and traction. However, it often requires a body mount chop (BMC) and may rub the front bumper or fender liner at full lock. With a 2-inch lift and aftermarket upper control arms (UCAs), many drivers achieve a rub-free fit. For trails 7/10 and up, this size is worth the extra effort. Popular tires include the BFGoodrich KO2, Nitto Ridge Grappler, and Toyo Open Country AT3.

33×10.50R17 – Full 33‑Inch Tall, Narrow Option

If you want the clearance of a 33-inch tire without the width that causes rubbing, the 33×10.50R17 is an excellent choice. It’s about 33.0 inches tall and 10.5 inches wide. This size reduces strain on the drivetrain and improves snow/mud traction thanks to the narrower footprint. It typically fits with minimal rubbing and works well with a 2-inch lift, though a BMC may still be needed for full articulation. It’s a top pick for trail runners who prioritize clearance over flotation.

285/75R16 (for 16‑Inch Wheels)

For 4Runners with 16-inch wheels (common on SR5 and some older models), the 285/75R16 is the equivalent of a 33-inch tire (≈32.8″ × 11.2″). The taller sidewall provides excellent air-down capability and rock crawling performance. Clearance is similar to the 285/70R17, and it usually requires a BMC and possibly trimming. This size is particularly popular among those who run on rough, rocky trails rated 8/10 and above.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Tires for Difficult Trails

Selecting a tire size is only part of the equation. The following factors heavily influence how well a tire performs on 6/10+ rated trails.

Tread Pattern and Rubber Compound

All-terrain (AT) tires like the BFGoodrich KO2 or Falken Wildpeak AT3W are adequate for 6/10 trails, but for 7+ you’ll likely want a mud-terrain (MT) or hybrid tire. MT tires (e.g., Toyo Open Country M/T, Nitto Trail Grappler) have deeper, more aggressive lugs that clean out better in mud and bite into rock. However, they are louder on pavement and wear faster. Hybrid tires (e.g., Nitto Ridge Grappler) split the difference. For rock-heavy trails, a tire with reinforced sidewalls (such as the BFGoodrich KM3 or Cooper Discoverer STT Pro) is ideal to prevent punctures.

Load Rating and Ply Rating

Off-road tires are often available in Load Range C, D, or E (equivalent to 6‑ply, 8‑ply, or 10‑ply). For a 4Runner, Load Range C offers a comfortable ride and is sufficient for most trails. Load Range E tires are stiffer and more puncture-resistant but can be harsh on washboard roads. If you carry heavy expedition gear, consider Load Range D or E. Check the manufacturer’s specs for each tire.

Wheel Offset and Backspacing

Wheel offset is critical for tire fitment. Stock 4Runner wheels have a +15 to +20 offset. Moving to wheels with lower offset (e.g., 0 to -12) pushes the tires outward, which can cause rubbing on the fender liner at full flex. For a 2-inch lift and 285/70R17s, many aftermarket wheels with 4.75″ backspacing (about +4 offset) work well with minimal trimming. Always test fit or consult a forum like Toyota-4Runner.org for specific wheel/tire combos.

Clearance Modifications (BMC, Trimming, UCAs)

To fit tires larger than 275/70R17, you may need:

  • Body mount chop (BMC): Trimming the front body mount to prevent rubbing at full lock. Many shops do this for $150–$300.
  • Fender liner trimming or removal: Often required for 285+ width tires.
  • Aftermarket upper control arms (UCAs): Helps correct camber and caster after lifting, and provides extra clearance for larger tires.

For a comprehensive guide on fitting 285/70R17s, refer to Trail4Runner’s write-up.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

Proper installation and ongoing care ensure your tires perform reliably on the trail and last longer.

  • Professional Mount and Balance: Large off-road tires require careful balancing with large weights. Insist on a road force balance to minimize vibration.
  • Alignment After Lift: A 2-inch lift changes suspension geometry. Get a full alignment with camber/caster specs after installing new tires.
  • Tire Rotation: Rotate every 5,000 miles (or per manufacturer recommendation) to prevent uneven wear, especially important with aggressive treads.
  • Air Pressure Adjustments: For trails, air down to 15–20 psi for better traction. Use a quality gauge and reinflate before highway driving.
  • Visual Inspections: After each hard trail, check for cuts, bulges, or embedded rocks. Also inspect the sidewalls for damage.
  • Re‑torque Lug Nuts: After the first 50 miles of driving on new tires, re-torque lug nuts to spec (usually 85–100 ft-lbs for 4Runners).

For a maintenance schedule, consult the tire manufacturer’s website. For example, BFGoodrich’s tire care page offers practical advice for off-road tires.

Conclusion

Choosing the right tire size for a 2‑inch lifted Toyota 4Runner can transform your trail experience. For moderate 6/10 rated trails, a 265/70R17 or 275/70R17 provides a solid balance of comfort and capability. As you push into 7/10 and higher, the 285/70R17 (with minor modifications) and 33×10.50R17 become the go‑to choices among experienced off-roaders. Remember to match tire size to your wheel offset, driving style, and willingness to perform modifications like a body mount chop. Pair your chosen size with a suitable tread pattern, maintain proper air pressure, and rotate regularly. With the right setup, your 4Runner will confidently conquer the toughest trails you throw at it.

For further research, the Offroaders.com 4Runner tire guide offers additional specs and user-reported fits. Happy trails!