How To Install New Subaru Tires

As a Subaru owner, you know how important it is to keep your vehicle in good working condition. One of the most crucial aspects of vehicle maintenance is ensuring that your tires are in good condition. Your tires are the only part of your vehicle that comes into contact with the road, and they play a crucial role in your vehicle's handling, traction, and safety. If you need to install new tires on your Subaru, this article will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to do it.

Step 1: Choose the Right Tires

Before you start, you need to choose the right tires for your Subaru. Your vehicle's owner's manual will provide you with information on the correct tire size, load rating, and speed rating for your vehicle. Choose a reputable tire brand and consider factors such as weather conditions, driving style, and your budget.

Step 2: Gather Your Tools and Materials

To install new tires on your Subaru, you will need a few essential tools and materials. You will need a jack and jack stands, a lug wrench, a torque wrench, a valve stem tool, and a set of new tires. It is also a good idea to have some wheel cleaner and a tire pressure gauge on hand.

Step 3: Remove the Old Tires

To remove the old tires, you need to first loosen the lug nuts on each wheel. Use the lug wrench to turn each nut counterclockwise until it is loose, but do not remove the nuts yet. Next, jack up the vehicle using the designated jacking points and secure it with jack stands. Finish removing the lug nuts and then remove the wheels.

Step 4: Clean the Wheels

Before you install the new tires, take the opportunity to clean the wheels thoroughly. Use a wheel cleaner and a soft-bristled brush to remove any dirt or debris from the wheels. This will help ensure a proper seal between the tire and the wheel.

Step 5: Install the New Tires

Take the new tire and position it on the wheel, making sure that the valve stem is facing out. Use the valve stem tool to insert the valve stem into the hole in the wheel. Carefully push the tire onto the wheel, making sure that the bead is seated correctly. Repeat this process for each wheel.

Step 6: Inflate the Tires

Once the new tires are installed, it is time to inflate them to the correct pressure. Check your vehicle's owner's manual for the recommended tire pressure. Use a tire pressure gauge to check the pressure and add or release air as necessary.

Step 7: Tighten the Lug Nuts

Before you lower the vehicle, tighten the lug nuts on each wheel. Use the torque wrench to tighten each nut in a star pattern to the manufacturer's specifications. This will help ensure that the wheels are properly seated and will prevent them from coming loose while driving.

Step 8: Lower the Vehicle

Lower the vehicle to the ground and remove the jack stands. Use the lug wrench to give each lug nut one final tightening to ensure that they are all secure.

Step 9: Test Drive

Before you hit the road, take your vehicle for a short test drive to ensure that the tires are properly installed and functioning correctly. Pay attention to how the vehicle handles and make sure that there are no vibrations or other issues.

Installing new tires on your Subaru is a relatively simple process that can help improve your vehicle's performance and safety. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your tires are installed correctly and provide you with reliable traction and handling. Remember to always prioritize safety when it comes to vehicle maintenance, and never hesitate to seek professional assistance if you are unsure of how to proceed.

In addition to installing new tires, it is also essential to maintain your tires properly. Regularly check your tire pressure, rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,000 miles, and inspect your tires for signs of wear or damage. If you notice any issues, have them addressed immediately by a qualified mechanic.