Most trims of the Wrangler — not including the Sahara and the Rubicon — come with 31.5-inch stock tires, which are adequate for everyday driving. However, they don’t offer that extra aesthetic and off-road capability that you may crave.
Whether you want your Jeep Wrangler to stand out on the pavement or the off-road, an upgrade to 33-inch tires is always a solid choice.
Here are some of the best options available and whether you should consider larger tires for your Wrangler model, budget, and driving style.
Comparison of the Best 33 Inch Tires For Jeep Wrangler
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Factors to Consider Before Buying 33 Inch Tires for Jeep Wrangler
Before you buy 33-inch tires for the Jeep Wrangler, you have to consider a few aspects. Whether the tire will fit with or without a lift/leveling kit, how often you go off-road, and your particular generation of Wrangler will have a profound effect on which 33-inch tires you choose. Here is a glance at the generations of Wranglers and what things you may have to contemplate before a tire upgrade.
CJ Wranglers
A CJ Wrangler, also known as the “Civilian Jeep,” is the first generation of Wrangler and comes in many different trims/models. To fit 33-inch tires, you’ll definitely need a lift kit. A 2.5-inch lift kit should suffice if you’re a pavement driver, although soft springs may mean you need a higher lift. Most commonly, CJ Wrangler drivers opt for a 4-inch lift to fit 33-inch tires for both on-road and off-road purposes.
YJ Wranglers
Produced from 1986 to 1995, the YJ Wrangler will need a lift kit for 33-inch tires. In most cases, a 1-inch lift or leveling kit should handle the larger tires for on-road driving. However, a 2- or 3-inch lift kit is recommended for off-road driving in a YJ with 33-inch tires.
TJ Wranglers
Manufactured from 1997 to 2006, the TJ Wrangler will also require a lift for 33-inch tires. A 2.5- to 3-inch lift is good enough for pavement driving with little to no rubbing. But if you’re an avid off-roader, the only sensible choice is a 4-inch lift kit, which will give you the clearance you need for a more robust off-road experience.
JK Wranglers
The JK Wrangler, made from 2006 to 2018, is the fourth iteration of the legendary Jeep model. Unlike its predecessors, the JK can reasonably accommodate 33-inch tires, but only for on-road driving. If you want to hit the terrain park, you’ll need at least a 1.5- to the 2-inch lift kit. Anything higher than this is purely for aesthetics or more extreme off-roading, such as rock-crawling.
JL Wranglers
The current generation of the Wrangler — the JL — doesn’t need a lift kit for 33-inch tires for regular off-roading or everyday driving. Like the JK, you could put a 2-inch lift kit for aesthetics, but it isn’t absolutely necessary.
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Review of the Best 33 Inch Tires for Jeep Wrangler
If you’re in the market for a set of 33-inch tires for your Jeep Wrangler, you have an almost endless amount of options. But to get your research started, check out some of the highest-rated tires that will provide the look, feel, and drivability you require.
Best Overall
Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac
Specifications
Section Width: 12.5 inches
Type of Tire: All-Terrain and All-Season
Tread Depth: 18/32 of an inch
Load Index Rating: 108.0 (2,205 pounds per tire)
Tire Size When Inflated: 32.5 inches
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Review
Thanks to Goodyear’s TractiveGroove technology, the treads of Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac tires can handle any type of terrain or weather condition thrown in their path. Building on this, Goodyear’s tread compound improves the longevity of the treads and even the sidewall, protecting them from debris and the elements. And with a 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake rating, even the harshest cold-weather climates are easily traversed with these tires.
Bottom Line
With Goodyear, you always know you’re getting a quality set of tires. While some drivers report deafening noise on the pavement after 25,000 miles of use, off-roaders and everyday drivers may find this a non-issue, enjoying the one-two punch and versatility of a tire that works well both on and off the road.
Pros
Quiet operation
Cool, aggressive aesthetic
Excellent performance in snow and mud
TractiveGroove technology for an edge in all types of terrain
3-Peak Mountain Snowflake certified for excellent performance in severe conditions
Cons
Tread design may reduce traction on pavement
Some buyers report a drastic increase in tire noise after 25,000 miles
Runner-up
Cooper Discoverer STT Pro All-Season
Specifications
Section Width: 12.5 inches
Type of Tire: All-Season Hybrid
Tread Depth: 21/32 of an inch
Load Index Rating: 108.0 (2,205 pounds per tire)
Tire Size When Inflated: 32.72 inches
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Review
If you need to strike a balance between off-road capability and everyday driving, chances are the Cooper Discoverer STT Pro All-Season is a good bet. A deep tread provides excellent handling off-road, even in notoriously difficult terrain such as mud and snow. These tires also have Cooper Armor Tek construction, which prevents damage to the tread sidewalls. Throw in quiet highway performance, and these are some of the most versatile tires available for the Jeep Wrangler.
Bottom Line
Although a soft tread and suspect handling in rainy conditions may deter some buyers, the ability to drive just about anywhere is a compelling argument for Cooper Discoverer STT Pro All-Season tires. With proper maintenance and tire pressure, you should be able to alleviate some of the concerns with these tires, leaving you nothing but an exciting adventure on the open road.
Pros
Superb performance in sand and mud
Smoother ride than comparable all-season tires
Moderately quiet performance on the highway
Cooper Armor Tek construction improves longevity and durability
Hybrid, all-season design provides traction during off-roading and everyday driving
Cons
May struggle on pavement in rainy conditions due to deep treads
Tread is softer than some other tires, which some buyers may not like
Some buyers report uneven tread wear, even with regular maintenance
Best for the Money
BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2
Specifications
Section Width: 12.5 inches
Type of Tire: All-Terrain
Tread Depth: 15/32 of an inch
Load Index Rating: 108.0 (2,205 pounds per tire)
Tire Size When Inflated: 32.5 inches
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Review
As one of the original all-terrain tires, BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tires have a name synonymous with excellent off-road handling. With a 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake designation for severe weather and CoreGard technology for improved longevity and durability, you’re getting a quality tire that will stand up to even the toughest terrain.
Bottom Line
While some drivers report that the quality of on-road driving of BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tires has fallen substantially in the past decade, it’s still one of the most popular choices for off-road excursions. As a result, everyday drivers and commuters who seldom off-road may want to look at all-season tires as a viable alternative. Still, the argument remains that these tires are just what you need for regular off-roading.
Pros
Rated for severe weather
Better handling with sidewall traction bars
Prevents sidewall punctures and damage thanks to CoreGard technology
Prevents damage to wheel wells and loss of grip thanks to stone ejector technology
Specially formulated tread rubber for excellent handling on gravel and rocky terrain
Cons
Poor performance on ice or heavy snow
Sharp turns or cornering can cause spinouts
Below-average performance in rainy conditions on pavement
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Editor’s Pick
Nitto Ridge Grappler
Specifications
Section Width: 12.5 inches
Type of Tire: All-Terrain
Tread Depth: 18.3/32nd of an inch
Load Index Rating: 122.0 (3,305 pounds per tire)
Tire Size When Inflated: 32.76 inches
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Review
Nitto Ridge Grappler tires are one of the most versatile options available on the market, providing superior traction both on the road and off. Both off-roading enthusiasts and regular drivers will love the traction, as well as the low levels of noise.
Bottom Line
While thrifty buyers or those who don’t off-road may find that the cost and drain on fuel economy aren’t worth the price, off-roaders may find that the Nitto Ridge Grappler is the tire they’ve been searching for. Either way, both parties can agree that the rugged look provides an aggressiveness that few other tires can touch.
Pros
Great traction in all types of conditions
Little to no noise when driving on highway
High durability thanks to 10-ply construction
Long-lasting compared to similar tires (70,000 miles+)
Excellent balance for off-roading and pavement driving
Cons
Poor handling in wet conditions
Lower fuel economy due to heavy weight
Honorable Mention
Toyo Tires Open Country M/T
Specifications
Section Width: 12.5 inches
Type of Tire: Mud-Terrain
Tread Depth: 21/32 of an inch
Load Index Rating: 114.0 (2,600 pounds per tire)
Tire Size When Inflated: 33 inches
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Review
Although Toyo may not hold the brand recognition of some American tire manufacturers, its Open Country M/T tires will make you think twice about this Japanese brand. With a rugged aesthetic, excellent off-road capability, and super-quiet highway operation, it checks all the boxes.
Bottom Line
Although a bit pricey, Toyo Open Country M/T tires provide the versatility you crave, regardless of where you’re driving. So whether you’re driving to work or up a mountainside, these tires dwindle all your concerns away with a smooth and dependable ride.
Pros
Quiet for mud terrain tires
Longer tread life than many competitors
Superb off-road capabilities in mud and snow
Rugged-looking tread adds to the appearance of Wrangler
Holds true to 33-inch size when inflated unlike most other 33-inch tires
Cons
Doesn’t handle well in ice
Expensive compared to some other options
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Top Brands in the Jeep Wrangler Tires Space
A well-known brand name doesn’t always mean that a tire is inherently better than the other. Yet Jeep Wrangler owners overwhelmingly gravitate to the same tire brands, simply because of the manufacturers’ reputation for longevity, quality, and durability. If you’re unsure which brand is for you, these brands continually rank among the best 33-inch tire options for the Jeep Wrangler.
Goodyear
Founded in 1898 in Akron, Ohio, Goodyear is the third-largest manufacturer of tires in the world and the biggest in North America. The company’s longevity in the industry can be attributed to several reasons, but mostly based on its innovative design and proprietary technology (SoundComfort and TractiveGroove, among others). With the combination of industry experience and a dedication to innovation, Goodyear tires provide superior grip and handling no matter where you go.
Cooper
Headquartered in Findlay, Ohio, Cooper dates back to 1914 — a 100-year tradition that’s a testament to the company’s quality tire manufacturing. Since 2000, the company has expanded its operations into over a dozen countries.
In 2003, the company purchased Avon Tyres and Mickey Thompson Performance Tires, cementing its interest in the performance off-road tire business. For buyers that want a true off-roading experience, Cooper has become one of the preeminent names in the industry, producing superior tires for the Jeep Wrangler and other off-road workhorses.
Toyo
Started less than a month before the end of World War II, Toyo started as a rubber importer, manufacturer, and distributor. But just two years later, in 1947, Toyo began to produce tires for trucks and other heavy-duty vehicles. Less than two decades later, the brand came to the United States, and in just 10 years, it became synonymous with off-road prowess.
Today, the tire remains a top option for off-roading with the invention of three technologies: Nano Balance Technology, Nano Composite Polymer, and its elongated high-strength rubber tire design. Together, this adds up to improved grip and handling in your Jeep Wrangler, regardless of the terrain in front of you.
Mix Aesthetic and Performance With a Set of 33-Inch Tires for Your Jeep Wrangler
While stock tires might seem a bit small and 35-inch tires a bit much, the 33-inch option is a fit that feels just right. Combining smooth on-pavement driving with the ability to off-road at your leisure, these tires provide an excellent alternative to other types of tires. And with the head-turning aesthetic and aggressiveness, you’ll feel like the true envy of every Jeep Wrangler owner you meet.
Recap – Best 33 Inch Tires for Jeep Wrangler
Before you head out, here’s a quick wrap-up of the best 33 inch tires for Jeep Wrangler:
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People Also Ask
Even with the information and reviews listed above, you may still have concerns about finding the tire with the correct size. To ensure your tires fit properly, here are some typical questions you may have thought about.
Although tire manufacturers use imperial measurements in certain situations (such as off-road tires) for some markets, most tire makers still employ the metric system. If you can’t find imperial measurements for your Jeep Wrangler tires, these metric tire sizes should be a close approximation for 33-inch tires with 16-inch wheels:
• 285/75R16
• 305/70R16
• 330/65R16
The optimal rim or wheel size for 33-inch tires is 15 or 16 inches. However, some 33-inch tires may accommodate 17-inch rims if you want a bit of extra bling. That said, 17-inch rims are usually more optimal for 35-inch tires
The YJ, CJ, and TJ models of the Jeep Wrangler will all need lift kits to accommodate 33-inch tires. Conversely, 33-inch tires can fit without a lift kit on nearly all trims of the JK without problems, provided you don’t off-road. If you decide to off-road in a JK with 33-inch tires and no lift, the tires will rub against the air dam under the front bumper when making harder turns.
The latest generation of the Jeep — the JL — can also accommodate 33-inch tires without a lift kit for on-road driving. However, both the Sahara and Rubicon trims provide enough clearance for 33-inch tires without the need for a lift kit whether you’re on pavement or off-road.
Who Worked on This?
Brian
Editor
A master of organization, Brian helps keep everything running smoothly for Your Jeep Guide.
No Jeep yet but we’re working on that!
Cory
Writer
Cory loves his XJ and frequently thrashes it through the hills. He’s constantly fixing something.
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