Subaru Outback aftermarket tires are essential for maintaining your vehicle's performance, safety, and driving comfort. The right tire size directly impacts how your Outback handles on mountain trails and city streets alike, with most models requiring either P225/65R17 or P225/60R18 configurations.
At Performance Plus Tire, we carry the best selection of Subaru Outback tires at competitive prices. Understanding tire specifications is crucial for making the right choice. Each number and letter in your tire code (such as "225/60R17 99H") tells you exactly what your tire can do and how it fits your vehicle. These specifications determine everything from ride comfort to off-road capability.
Your tires connect your Outback to the road, whether you're tackling steep mountain passes or commuting through downtown traffic. The load index shows how much weight your tires can safely support—including passengers and adventure gear. The speed rating ensures your tires meet Subaru's engineering standards for performance and safety.
We'll guide you through selecting the perfect aftermarket tires for your Subaru Outback. This straightforward guide covers tire sizing, performance considerations, seasonal options, and our top recommendations to help you find the ideal match for your driving style and budget.
Selecting the right aftermarket tires for your Subaru Outback starts with knowing your current specifications. Understanding these details ensures optimal performance, safety, and proper AWD system operation.
Your Outback's tire size information appears in two convenient locations. Check the driver's side door jamb for a sticker showing original equipment specifications. You can also read the size directly from your current tire sidewalls where it's clearly printed. Both sources give you the exact sizing details needed for replacement shopping.
Modern Subaru Outbacks use three main tire sizes: 225/65R17, 225/60R18, or 225/55R19, depending on your specific model year and trim. Most 2015 and newer models require either 225/65R17 or 225/60R18 configurations.
The code printed on your tire sidewall contains essential fitment information. Here's how to read a typical Outback tire code like "225/60R17 99H":
225: Tire width in millimeters from sidewall to sidewall
60: Aspect ratio (sidewall height equals 60% of tire width)
R: Radial construction (standard for modern passenger tires)
17: Rim diameter in inches (must match your wheels exactly)
99: Load index (safely supports up to 1,709 pounds)
H: Speed rating (safe for sustained speeds up to 130 mph)
Look for additional markings like "M+S" which indicate mud and snow capability.
Subaru's AWD system demands precise tire sizing for proper operation. All four tires must be the same manufacturer, model, and nominal size according to Subaru specifications. The company requires all tires to have circumferences within 1/4 inch of each other to prevent drivetrain stress.
Mismatched tire sizes cause uneven rotation speeds that strain drivetrain components and can lead to expensive repairs. Even minor size differences affect speedometer accuracy and fuel economy. A 2.41% increase in tire diameter can cause your speedometer to underreport speed by approximately 2.35%.
Proper tire specifications maintain your Outback's ground clearance, handling characteristics, and braking performance. These factors are critical when choosing aftermarket tire options that preserve your vehicle's engineered capabilities.
When it comes to selecting aftermarket tires for your Subaru Outback, several key factors determine the best choice for your specific needs. Consider these essential elements to ensure optimal performance, safety, and value from your tire investment.
Your typical driving environment should guide your tire selection. City drivers benefit from tires with softer tread compounds that deliver comfortable rides and superior pavement grip. Off-road enthusiasts need all-terrain options that provide exceptional traction in mud, dirt, and rocks while maintaining good highway performance. Florida drivers often prioritize all-weather tires with outstanding wet-road performance for sudden downpours, while those exploring sandy or swampy terrain require specialized all-terrain capabilities.
Understanding these tire categories helps you make the right choice for your climate:
All-Season Tires: The most versatile option, designed for typical driving conditions year-round. These tires become less flexible in cold weather, reducing traction compared to specialized winter tires.
Winter Tires: Engineered with softer rubber compounds that stay flexible in freezing temperatures. They feature deeper, wider tread patterns specifically designed for winter conditions, with optimal performance when temperatures drop below 45 degrees.
All-Weather Tires: A compromise solution offering better snow performance than all-season tires without requiring seasonal tire changes.
Look for manufacturers that back their products with solid warranties, typically lasting 2-4 years or 30,000-50,000 miles. Most tire manufacturers recommend replacement after 6 years regardless of remaining tread due to rubber degradation. Premium brands like Michelin, Continental, Goodyear, and Bridgestone consistently deliver superior performance and durability ratings.
Standard Subaru Outback tires range from $150-$350 per tire, while high-performance options can cost over $500. Investing in quality tires often provides better long-term value through improved fuel efficiency, enhanced safety, and extended tread life. Consider purchasing separate winter and all-season tire sets - while initially more expensive, this approach reduces overall wear and extends both sets' lifespan.
Now that you understand your Outback's requirements, let's explore the top tire options that deliver outstanding performance, durability, and value for your vehicle.
The Goodyear Assurance cs Fuel Max stands out with its impressive 65,000-mile warranty and superior wet-road traction. For budget-conscious drivers, the Kumho Solus TA51a starts around $153 and features advanced 3D interlocking sipes that provide excellent stability. The Michelin CrossClimate2 offers exceptional versatility with its unique V-shaped tread design that performs brilliantly in both wet and dry conditions, plus it carries the three-peak mountain snowflake rating for snow capability.
When snow performance matters most, the Michelin X-Ice Snow excels with its Flex-Ice 2.0 compound that stays flexible in extreme cold. The Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 delivers enhanced ice braking through its innovative multicell compound technology. Budget-minded drivers will appreciate the General AltiMAX Arctic 12, a studdable winter tire starting around $151 that provides reliable cold-weather traction.
The Falken Wildpeak AT Trail combines off-road capability with durable 2-ply polyester construction and includes valuable road hazard protection. Subaru specifically selected the Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015 for its Wilderness trim, making it an ideal factory-endorsed choice for adventure-ready Outbacks.
Complete wheel and tire packages offer the perfect solution for drivers wanting both style and performance. Choose from gloss black, silver, or bronze wheel finishes paired with all-season or hybrid terrain tires. These packages provide the ideal balance of comfort and capability for any terrain you encounter.
Find your perfect Subaru Outback tire options at Performance Plus Tire
Ready to upgrade your Outback's tires? The purchasing and installation process ensures your new tires deliver the performance and safety you expect.
Many Subaru owners choose Discount Tire for competitive pricing and customer satisfaction ratings. Dealership purchases offer advantages like free tire inspections, exclusive warranties, and factory-trained technicians. At Performance Plus Tire, we provide convenient online shopping with detailed specifications to match your exact Outback model requirements.
We offer flexible financing options to make your tire purchase more affordable. Our financing programs include instant approvals with no credit needed, making it easy to get the tires you want today.
Your Outback's AWD system demands this approach. Subaru requires all tires to be within 1/4" rolling circumference of each other. Mismatched tires force your differentials to work constantly, causing expensive premature failure. When you must replace a single tire, consider having the new tire "shaved" to match your existing tread depth.
This isn't a sales technique—it's essential for protecting your AWD drivetrain and maintaining proper handling characteristics.
Professional mounting ensures proper balancing and alignment that DIY installation often misses. Dealership technicians have manufacturer-specific training and specialized tools for correct installation. They also provide complimentary tire inspections during regular service visits.
At Performance Plus Tire, our experienced technicians use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure your tires perform at their best.
New tires need 500 miles of moderate driving to reach full performance. Manufacturing release agents reduce initial traction, so avoid aggressive acceleration, hard braking, and sharp cornering during this break-in period.
Our team can guide you through the break-in process to ensure optimal tire performance from day one.
Find your Subaru Outback tire options at Performance Plus Tire
Choosing the right aftermarket tires for your Subaru Outback is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your vehicle's performance and safety. This guide has covered everything from tire sizing basics to selecting the perfect match for your specific driving conditions.
Your Outback's AWD system requires precise tire matching. All four tires must stay within that critical 1/4 inch circumference tolerance to protect your drivetrain from expensive damage. Whether you're commuting daily or exploring weekend trails, your driving environment should determine your tire choice.
Quality matters more than initial price. Premium tires from trusted manufacturers provide better long-term value through improved safety, fuel efficiency, and durability. Professional installation ensures proper balance and alignment that protects your investment.
At Performance Plus Tire, we understand that every Outback owner has different needs and priorities. Our experienced team can help you find the perfect tires that match both your vehicle's requirements and your budget. We're here to make sure your next tire purchase gives you years of confident, comfortable driving.
Ready to upgrade your Subaru Outback's performance? Contact our tire experts today and discover why so many drivers trust Performance Plus Tire for their aftermarket tire needs.
Understanding tire specifications and making informed choices ensures your Subaru Outback maintains optimal performance, safety, and AWD system integrity.
• Match tire sizes exactly: All four tires must be within 1/4 inch circumference to prevent expensive AWD drivetrain damage and maintain proper handling.
• Choose tires based on driving conditions: All-season for versatility, winter tires for snow/ice, and all-terrain for off-road adventures with highway capability.
• Replace all four tires together: Mismatched tread depths stress the AWD system, causing premature differential failure and costly repairs.
• Invest in quality brands: Premium tires from Michelin, Goodyear, or Bridgestone offer better long-term value through improved safety, fuel efficiency, and durability.
• Consider professional installation: Proper mounting, balancing, and alignment ensure optimal performance and prevent issues that DIY installation might miss.
The right aftermarket tires transform your Outback's capabilities while protecting your investment. Whether you're commuting daily or exploring mountain trails, matching your tire choice to your specific driving needs and climate conditions ensures years of safe, comfortable adventures.
Modern Subaru Outbacks generally use one of three common tire sizes: 225/65R17, 225/60R18, or 225/55R19, depending on the model year and trim level. You can find the exact size for your vehicle on the driver's side door jamb or on the sidewall of your current tires.
Replacing all four tires simultaneously is crucial for Subaru's AWD system. All tires must be within 1/4 inch rolling circumference of each other to prevent constant differential work, which can lead to premature failure and costly repairs. Even minor differences can cause issues with the AWD system.
Some top all-season tire choices for the Subaru Outback include the Goodyear Assurance cs Fuel Max, known for its 65,000-mile warranty and enhanced wet-road traction, and the Michelin CrossClimate2, which offers excellent versatility in various weather conditions. The Kumho Solus TA51a is a budget-friendly option with good stability features.
Tire manufacturers typically recommend replacement after 6 years, regardless of tread condition, due to rubber degradation. However, tire warranties usually last 2-4 years or between 30,000-50,000 miles, depending on the manufacturer. Regular inspections and monitoring tread wear can help determine when replacement is necessary.
Yes, you can use all-terrain tires on your Subaru Outback for off-road driving. Options like the Falken Wildpeak AT Trail or the Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015 offer a good balance of off-road capability and on-road comfort. These tires provide enhanced traction for various terrains while still performing well on highways.
