Whether you’re looking to improve your vehicle’s performance or give it an aesthetically pleasing vibe, changing the wheels of your Jeep Cherokee requires meticulous planning and consideration.
Our team spent 48 hours researching to help you figure out what wheels fit a Jeep Cherokee and learn about the factors to consider before changing your car tires.
Wheels That Fit On Your Jeep Cherokee
The Jeep Cherokee 1997 to 2001 was considered the classic model, where the edgy designs were turned into rounded corners, similar to the aesthetics of the Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 [1]. As the designs evolved, the Jeep wheels on different models were also changed.
However, since the old series of the Jeep Cherokee require the replacement of wheels, it is essential to check the bolt pattern that will match the vehicle. Take note that there are different Jeep wheels interchangeable with a Cherokee, like the Grand Cherokee and Jeep Wrangler.
Why You Can’t Put Just Any Wheels On A Jeep Cherokee
As stated earlier, looking for replacements on the Jeep Cherokee needs to be done meticulously and requires the same bolt pattern matching the vehicle. If you perform a wheels interchange with your Jeep Cherokee using the wrong design, your vehicle’s performance may be compromised.
Remember that most passenger vehicles have lug formations of 4, 5, 6, and 8, so all you need to do is find a compatible fit before changing your Jeep Cherokee wheels. For instance, the Grand Cherokee X-Pedego has a similar pattern to the Dodge wheel of Durango, so you can interchange them.
Interchangeable Wheels With Jeep Cherokee
While older models of Jeep Cherokee cannot be compared with the latest specifications, other series of Jeeps have interchangeable wheels. However, what Jeep wheels can be interchanged with Cherokee?
If you’re looking for a wheels interchange, look for Jeep models like the Jeep Wrangler, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Wagoneer, Jeep Comanche, Jeep Compass, Jeep Patriot, and Jeep Liberty.
Furthermore, you can look into other vehicles to find compatible replacements, including some of Toyota’s SUVs, Ford, and other series of Dodge. By utilizing wheel spacers, adapters, and a bit of due diligence, you can successfully change to a 5.5 inches wheel!
Factors To Consider
When To Change Wheels
There are various reasons to change wheels, whether you’re driving a Cherokee or Wrangler, but the top reason to change your wheels is if it’s already damaged and is causing control problems.
Also, it might be time to look for replacements if there’s uneven tire tread wear, decreased fuel efficiency, vibrating steering wheel or seat, and increasing road noise that you can hear in the car cabin.
Bolt Patterns
Since Jeep wheels have varying bolt patterns, you should find a compatible wheel before purchasing (even if it’s from Wrangler). The bolt pattern has two numbers, like 5×5.5 inches – 5 indicating the number of bolts, and 5.5 inches is the diameter for the bolts holes.
For instance, the 1981 to 2001 Jeep Cherokee has a bolt pattern of 5×4.5 inches, similar to the 2002 to 2012 Jeep Liberty. Thus, you can interchange the wheels of the two.
Tire Sizes
Another important thing to consider when changing wheels is the tire’s size. Your tires should match the rim’s perimeter to avoid rolling issues that can cause accidents. Moreover, if you use the incorrect size that is taller, it can rub in the rim’s middle part, and later on, cause steering problems.
Rim Size & Width
The size of your wheels matters not only because of their appearance but also their effect on your vehicle’s performance. Your new tires should match your old tires to ensure road safety.
For instance, if you own a 2015 Jeep Cherokee Latitude, your rim’s perimeter should be 17 inches to fit the 225/65R17 tires.
Size Guide & Specifications
Although the Wrangler has similar wheels to a Cherokee, they differ in size and specs. Therefore, it is important that you check if the series of your vehicle matches the product you are buying.
For example, the 1987 to 2006 Wrangler has a wheel size of 15 to 16 inches, 5×4.5 inches bolt design, and a stud size of 1/2×20, whereas the 1981 to 2001 Cherokee have similar sizes but have a 1/2-RH stud.
Offset & Backspacing
The offset and backspacing are also important before modifying your wheels, as this helps determine if your wheels will fit into the fender. If the wheel’s backspacing is higher, you will have a positive offset, making it easier to mount and perfectly fit your vehicle.
Nonetheless, if the backspacing is decreased, it is considered a negative offset. It can result in the tires extending out or rubbing against the fenders and lift.
Lug Pattern
The most important factor to look for when buying wheels for your Jeep is that it matches the stud layout, also known as the bolt design. This only has 2 numbers, like 6×5.5 inches, 6 indicating the number of mounting studs, and 5.5 as the bolt measurement to be used.
Hub-Centric & Lug Centric
There are two available wheels that can be purchased in the market. The first is the hub-centric which is the big hole on the middle of the wheel that perfectly fits the vehicle’s hub, and the other has an oversized hole that can fit different vehicles. Thus, know if you prefer to have the standard size or go for the modified ones.
Bead Locks
This mechanical tool is used by securing the tire’s bead to stick to the car’s wheel whenever the tire lacks pressure to carry the bead. However, it is illegal in most countries as it does not pass the standards. But, if you’re into off-road adventures, you may need to install bead locks.
Also Read:
- Service Shifter Jeep Cherokee Signal – What It Means
- 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee Shuts Off While Driving – What It Means
FAQs
Will Ford Explorer rims fit on a Jeep Cherokee?
No, the Ford Explorer rims won’t fit on the Jeep Cherokee and even on Wrangler because the center bore is smaller. Despite having a similar pattern, Jeeps’ wheels have a 5.25 inches backspacing, while the Explorer wheels have 4.625 inches.
Are Jeep and Ford wheels interchangeable?
Yes, some Ford wheels are interchangeable with Wrangler and Cherokee, as long as they have similar wheel size and bolt design. So make sure to check your vehicle’s wheel sizes and configuration to see if it’s compatible for fix replacement and improved suspension.
Final Thoughts
A wide range of wheels matches Jeep Cherokee from Jeep models like Wrangler and other specific brands of vehicles. However, many factors should be considered before going for any modifications on your Jeep Cherokee or Wrangler – from the bolt design and backspace up to the offset.
The wheels of a vehicle contribute greatly to its usability and road safety. Thus, make sure to thoroughly check all the necessary details about your Jeep Cherokee to make sure they match before switching Jeep wheels.
Thank you for reading this far! I hope that the information provided in this article will be helpful to you.
Reference:
- https://www.motortrend.com/how-to/154-1001-jeep-cherokee-buyers-guide/
