Finding the right tire size for your 2016 Dodge Journey isn’t just about replacing what’s currently on your vehicle – it’s about optimizing performance, safety, and fuel efficiency. We’ve discovered that many Journey owners don’t realize their vehicle came with different tire size options depending on the trim level and wheel package they chose.
Whether you’re dealing with worn tires or considering an upgrade, understanding your 2016 Journey’s exact tire requirements can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent costly mistakes. We’ll walk you through everything from decoding those confusing numbers on your sidewall to exploring plus-sizing options that can enhance your driving experience.
The 2016 Dodge Journey’s tire specifications vary significantly across trim levels, and choosing the wrong size can affect everything from your speedometer accuracy to your vehicle’s handling characteristics. Let’s jump into the complete guide that’ll help you make the smartest tire decision for your Journey.
Stock Tire Size for 2016 Dodge Journey
The 2016 Dodge Journey comes with different tire sizes depending on the exact trim level and wheel package selected. Factory specifications ensure optimal performance and safety ratings for each configuration.
Base Model Specifications
Base trim Journey models feature 17-inch wheels with 225/65R17 tires as standard equipment. These tires measure 28.5 inches in diameter and provide a comfortable ride quality with adequate fuel efficiency ratings. SE and SXT trim levels use this tire size configuration across most production variants.
Entry-level models prioritize affordability while maintaining manufacturer safety standards. The 225/65R17 specification delivers reliable traction in various weather conditions and supports the vehicle’s 4,800-pound gross weight capacity. Standard tire pressure for this size runs at 36 PSI for optimal performance.
Higher Trim Level Options
Crossroad and RT trim levels come equipped with larger 19-inch alloy wheels and 225/55R19 tires. These performance-oriented tires measure 27.7 inches in diameter and feature lower sidewall profiles for enhanced handling characteristics. Premium trim packages often include these larger wheel and tire combinations.
Performance models sacrifice some ride comfort for improved cornering stability and visual appeal. The 225/55R19 configuration reduces sidewall flex during aggressive driving maneuvers while maintaining the same 225mm width as base models. These tires typically require higher replacement costs but offer superior grip on dry pavement conditions.
Limited edition packages occasionally featured 20-inch wheel options with corresponding low-profile tire sizes. These configurations appeared primarily on special edition models and dealer-installed upgrade packages throughout the 2016 model year production run.
Understanding Tire Size Numbers
Understanding tire measurements helps you make informed decisions about replacement tires for your 2016 Dodge Journey. These standardized codes contain essential information about tire dimensions and capabilities.
Reading the Sidewall Markings
Every tire displays critical information on its sidewall that we can decode to understand its specifications. The primary tire size appears as a sequence like 225/55R19 100H on both the 225/55R19 tires found on Crossroad and R/T trims and the 225/65R17 tires on SE and SXT models.
Beyond the basic size designation, manufacturers include additional markings that indicate performance capabilities. Load index numbers like 100 specify the maximum weight each tire can safely carry, while speed ratings such as H define the tire’s maximum speed capability. These specifications match the performance requirements that Dodge engineers established for each Journey trim level.
DOT codes also appear on sidewalls to show manufacturing information and compliance with Department of Transportation safety standards. Date codes within these markings reveal the week and year of production, helping you determine tire age when shopping for replacements.
What Each Number Means
The first number in tire sizing represents width measured in millimeters across the tire’s widest point. Our Journey’s 225 designation means each tire measures 225 millimeters from sidewall to sidewall, providing the contact patch width that affects handling and traction.
Aspect ratio follows as the second number, expressing sidewall height as a percentage of tire width. The 55 in 225/55R19 tires means sidewall height equals 55% of the 225mm width, while 65 in 225/65R17 tires creates a taller sidewall that’s 65% of the width measurement.
Construction type appears next, with R indicating radial tire construction that’s standard across modern passenger vehicles. Radial design places steel belts at 90-degree angles to the tread direction, creating better fuel efficiency and longer tread life compared to older bias-ply designs.
Rim diameter concludes the size specification, measured in inches rather than millimeters like other dimensions. The 19 indicates these tires fit 19-inch diameter wheels on higher trims, while 17 designates fitment for the smaller wheels on base models.
OEM Tire Brands and Models
OEM tire manufacturers for the 2016 Dodge Journey include established brands like Goodyear and Continental, though exact models vary by production batch. We find tire information placards located on the driver’s side doorjamb or inside the fuel filler door displaying the exact OEM brand and model installed from the factory.
Recommended Factory Options
Factory tire specifications align with each trim level’s performance requirements and design objectives. SE and SXT trims receive 225/65R17 tires as standard equipment, optimizing comfort and fuel efficiency for daily driving scenarios. Crossroad and R/T variants come equipped with 225/55R19 tires that complement the sportier suspension tuning and larger wheel designs.
Additional customization options include 225/60R18 and 235/60R18 sizes, though these aren’t standard OEM configurations. These alternative sizes offer different performance characteristics compared to the factory recommendations. Buyers considering non-standard sizes must verify compatibility with their exact trim level and driving requirements.
Performance Characteristics
225/65R17 tires deliver balanced comfort and handling through their higher sidewall construction, providing enhanced ride quality over various road surfaces. This configuration absorbs road imperfections effectively while maintaining adequate steering response for everyday driving conditions.
225/55R19 tires offer improved handling precision and enhanced vehicle appearance through their lower profile design. The reduced sidewall height increases steering responsiveness and cornering stability, particularly beneficial for spirited driving scenarios. This size complements the sport-tuned suspension components found on higher trim levels.
Replacement tire selection requires matching original size specifications and speed ratings to maintain proper performance and safety standards. Load index ratings must also correspond to factory specifications to ensure adequate weight carrying capacity for the Journey’s GVWR requirements.
Alternative Tire Size Options
Beyond factory specifications, several alternative tire sizes enhance your 2016 Dodge Journey’s performance characteristics. These options accommodate different driving preferences and seasonal requirements while maintaining safety standards.
Plus-Size Upgrades
Upgrading to larger diameter wheels with lower profile tires improves handling response and visual appeal. The 18-inch upgrade transforms your Journey’s performance using 225/60R18 or 235/60R18 tires, which provide sharper steering feedback and reduced sidewall flex during cornering.
Converting from stock 17-inch wheels to 18-inch rims requires matching the overall diameter to prevent speedometer inaccuracies. Our recommended 225/60R18 size maintains compatibility with most Journey models while offering enhanced road grip.
Existing 19-inch wheel owners can consider 235/55R19 tires for improved contact patch and handling precision. This upgrade works effectively when original wheels feature 7J width or greater, though fitment verification remains essential for proper clearance.
| Upgrade Size | Wheel Diameter | Benefits | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 225/60R18 | 18-inch | Better handling, improved aesthetics | Requires wheel upgrade |
| 235/60R18 | 18-inch | Enhanced grip, sportier appearance | Check load rating compatibility |
| 235/55R19 | 19-inch | Maximum performance, premium look | Verify wheel width and offset |
Downsizing Considerations
Switching to smaller diameter wheels offers practical advantages for winter driving and cost savings. Moving from 19-inch to 17-inch wheels creates space for higher sidewall tires that absorb road impacts more effectively.
Winter tire setups benefit significantly from downsizing because increased sidewall height improves traction in snow conditions. The 2016 Journey’s 5x127mm bolt pattern accommodates this transition seamlessly when proper center bore and offset specifications are maintained.
Overall diameter preservation protects your vehicle’s electronic systems and speedometer accuracy during downsizing. We recommend consulting tire professionals to calculate equivalent sizes that match original circumference measurements within acceptable tolerances.
Cost reduction represents another downsizing advantage since 17-inch tires typically cost less than larger alternatives. Ride comfort also improves as increased sidewall height cushions road irregularities more effectively than low-profile configurations.
Seasonal Tire Recommendations
Weather conditions throughout the year directly impact tire performance and safety for your 2016 Dodge Journey. We’ve identified the most effective seasonal tire options for each trim level’s exact requirements.
All-Season Performance
All-season tires deliver balanced performance across multiple weather conditions for Journey owners who experience moderate climates year-round. Tiger Paw Touring AS DT tires provide excellent tread life with 75,000-mile warranties for the 225/65R17 size found on SE and SXT trims. Terramax HLT models offer superior highway performance with enhanced fuel efficiency ratings for daily commuting needs.
Discoverer EnduraMax tires combine durability with comfort features that complement the Journey’s family-oriented design. Ecopia HL 422 Plus options prioritize fuel economy while maintaining adequate wet weather traction for suburban driving conditions. These all-season choices typically feature 50,000 to 75,000-mile tread warranties that make them cost-effective for average annual mileage.
Performance characteristics of all-season tires include moderate traction on light snow, reliable wet weather grip, and consistent dry pavement handling. We recommend these options for drivers in regions with mild winters and occasional precipitation rather than extreme weather conditions.
Winter Tire Alternatives
Dedicated winter tires significantly outperform all-season options in temperatures below 45°F and snow-covered roads. Specialized rubber compounds remain flexible in freezing conditions while aggressive tread patterns bite into snow and ice for enhanced traction control.
Winter tire benefits include shorter stopping distances on icy surfaces, improved acceleration in snow, and better cornering stability during cold weather driving. We suggest installing winter tires in complete sets of four to maintain balanced handling characteristics across all wheels.
Timing for winter tire installation depends on local climate patterns, with most experts recommending the switch when daytime temperatures consistently drop below 45°F. Spring changeover becomes necessary when temperatures regularly exceed 50°F to prevent accelerated tread wear from soft winter compounds on warm pavement.
Both 225/65R17 and 225/55R19 winter tire sizes accommodate the Journey’s different trim levels while providing season-appropriate performance upgrades. Professional installation ensures proper mounting and balancing for optimal winter driving safety.
Cost Considerations and Where to Buy
Tire replacement costs for your 2016 Dodge Journey vary significantly based on brand selection and performance requirements. We’ve identified multiple purchasing channels that offer competitive pricing for both budget-conscious drivers and performance enthusiasts.
Budget-Friendly Options
SimpleTire provides affordable tire answers for 2016 Journey owners seeking value without compromising safety standards. Their inventory includes standard sizes like 225/65R17 for SE and SXT trims at competitive price points that fit most maintenance budgets.
Big O Tires offers exact models including Tiger Paw Touring AS DT and Terramax HLT that deliver reliable performance for SXT configurations. These options balance cost effectiveness with adequate traction for daily driving conditions.
Budget-conscious buyers can expect to save 30-40% compared to premium brands while maintaining manufacturer-approved load ratings. Independent tire retailers frequently stock these economical choices with installation services included in package deals.
Premium Tire Investments
Goodyear represents the premium tier for Journey owners prioritizing maximum performance and longevity from their tire investment. Their tire designs provide enhanced traction control and extended tread life that justifies higher upfront costs through reduced replacement frequency.
Premium brands offer advanced compound technologies that improve fuel efficiency ratings by 5-10% compared to basic alternatives. These tires feature reinforced sidewall construction that better handles the Journey’s crossover weight distribution and cargo capacity demands.
High-end tire investments typically include comprehensive warranties covering defects and road hazard protection. Professional installation through authorized dealers ensures proper mounting procedures that maximize tire performance characteristics designed specifically for crossover applications.
Online retailers like SimpleTire and Big O Tires provide direct access to premium inventory with detailed specifications matching your trim level requirements. Local tire shops offer personalized consultation services that help identify the optimal balance between performance features and budget constraints for your exact driving patterns.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Correct tire size installation forms the foundation of optimal 2016 Dodge Journey performance and safety. We recommend verifying your exact trim level requirements before purchasing replacement tires since Crossroad and R/T models use 225/55R19 tires while SE and SXT trims typically require 225/65R17 specifications.
Professional installation ensures proper mounting and balancing for your Journey’s tire specifications. Torque specifications matter significantly during installation as improper wheel mounting can lead to premature wear patterns and safety concerns. We suggest having certified technicians handle the installation process to maintain manufacturer warranty coverage and optimal performance standards.
Regular pressure monitoring extends tire lifespan and maintains fuel efficiency ratings for your 2016 Journey. Check tire pressure monthly using a reliable gauge since underinflated tires reduce fuel economy by up to 3% according to automotive efficiency studies. Recommended pressure levels appear on the tire information placard located on your driver’s side doorjamb.
Rotation schedules between 5,000 and 8,000 miles prevent uneven wear patterns across all four tires. Front tires typically experience faster wear due to steering and braking forces while rear tires maintain more consistent tread depth over time. We recommend following a cross rotation pattern for non-directional tires to maximize tread life and maintain balanced handling characteristics.
Proper balancing eliminates vibration issues and extends tire longevity for both 17-inch and 19-inch wheel configurations. Unbalanced wheels create irregular wear patterns that compromise ride quality and reduce overall tire performance. Ever-changing balancing equipment ensures smooth operation at highway speeds while preventing premature suspension component wear.
Tread depth monitoring maintains traction performance and safety standards throughout tire lifespan. Replace tires when tread depth reaches 2/32 inches as measured by the penny test or professional tread depth gauges. We recommend considering replacement at 4/32 inches for enhanced wet weather traction since shallow treads significantly reduce stopping distances on wet surfaces.
Conclusion
We’ve covered everything you need to know about selecting the right tires for your 2016 Dodge Journey. From understanding stock specifications across different trim levels to decoding sidewall markings and exploring seasonal options there’s a lot to consider when making this important decision.
Remember that your Journey’s performance safety and fuel efficiency all depend on choosing the correct tire size and specifications. Whether you’re sticking with OEM recommendations or exploring alternative sizes always verify compatibility with your exact trim level.
Don’t forget about proper maintenance once you’ve made your purchase. Regular pressure checks rotation schedules and professional installation will help you get the most value from your investment while keeping your Journey running safely on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the stock tire sizes for the 2016 Dodge Journey?
The 2016 Dodge Journey comes with different tire sizes depending on the trim level. Base models (SE/SXT) feature 17-inch wheels with 225/65R17 tires, while higher trims like Crossroad and R/T have 19-inch wheels with 225/55R19 tires. Limited edition packages may include 20-inch wheel options with low-profile tires.
How do I read tire size numbers on my Dodge Journey?
Tire size numbers are displayed on the sidewall and follow a specific format. For example, in 225/65R17: 225 is the width in millimeters, 65 is the aspect ratio (sidewall height as percentage of width), R indicates radial construction, and 17 is the rim diameter in inches. Additional markings show load index and speed ratings.
Which tire manufacturers supply OEM tires for the 2016 Dodge Journey?
The 2016 Dodge Journey comes with OEM tires from manufacturers like Goodyear and Continental, with specific models varying by production batch. You can find the exact OEM brand and model information on the tire placard located on the driver’s side doorjamb or inside the fuel filler door.
Can I use different tire sizes on my 2016 Dodge Journey?
Alternative tire sizes like 225/60R18 and 235/60R18 may be compatible but require verification for your specific trim level. Any replacement tire must match the load index ratings and maintain proper speedometer accuracy. It’s essential to consult with a tire professional before switching from factory specifications.
What seasonal tires work best for the 2016 Dodge Journey?
All-season tires like Tiger Paw Touring AS DT and Terramax HLT work well for moderate climates, providing balanced performance year-round. For colder regions, dedicated winter tires are recommended when temperatures drop below 45°F, as they offer superior traction and safety compared to all-season options.
Where can I find affordable tires for my 2016 Dodge Journey?
Budget-friendly tire options are available through retailers like SimpleTire and Big O Tires, which offer competitive pricing on standard sizes without compromising safety. Both online and local retailers provide various options, allowing you to balance performance features with budget constraints while maintaining quality standards.
How often should I maintain my 2016 Dodge Journey tires?
Regular maintenance includes monthly tire pressure checks, tire rotation every 5,000-7,500 miles, and tread depth inspections. Professional installation and balancing are crucial for safety and performance. Proper maintenance extends tire lifespan, maintains fuel efficiency, and prevents irregular wear patterns that can affect ride quality.