When Should You Pump Your Subaru Tires

Maintaining the correct tire pressure is crucial for safe driving and optimal vehicle performance. Knowing when to pump tires on your Subaru can save you from costly repairs, improve fuel efficiency, and extend the life of your tires. In this article, we’ll explore when you should pump your Subaru tires and the signs that indicate it’s time to do so.

Understanding Proper Tire Pressure

Tire pressure is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI), and every Subaru model has a recommended PSI level that you can find in the vehicle’s owner’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s side door. It’s important to regularly check your tire pressure—at least once a month—to ensure your tires are at the recommended level.

Why is it important to maintain proper tire pressure?

• Safety: Underinflated or overinflated tires can affect your vehicle’s handling and braking capabilities, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Fuel Efficiency: Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, which means your engine uses less fuel.
• Tire Longevity: Maintaining the correct tire pressure helps prevent uneven wear, extending the lifespan of your tires.

When to Check Tire Pressure

The best time to check your Subaru’s tire pressure is when the tires are cold, typically in the morning before you’ve driven for the day. Checking tire pressure when the tires are warm from driving can result in an inaccurate reading due to heat expansion.

Additionally, always check your tire pressure in the following situations:

• Before Long Trips: Checking tire pressure before a long journey can help avoid issues on the road.
• With Seasonal Changes: As temperatures drop, tire pressure decreases. Be sure to check tire pressure during the fall and winter months.
• After Hitting a Pothole or Curb: A sudden impact can cause a loss of air pressure. Always check your tires after hitting any road obstacles.

How to Know When to Pump Your Tires

Knowing when to pump tires is straightforward if you pay attention to certain signs:

• Low Tire Pressure Warning Light: If your Subaru is equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), the low tire pressure warning light will illuminate when a tire is underinflated.
• Visual Inspection: If you notice one or more of your tires looking flatter than usual or if they appear uneven compared to the others, it’s time to check the pressure.
• Unusual Handling or Noise: If your vehicle feels unsteady or makes unusual noises when driving, it may be a sign of low tire pressure.
• Frequent Refueling: If you find yourself refueling more often, low tire pressure might be increasing rolling resistance and reducing fuel efficiency.

How to Pump Your Subaru Tires

1. Start by removing the valve cap from the tire.
2. Place the tire pressure gauge onto the valve stem and press down until the hissing sound stops, and the gauge provides a reading.
3. If the reading is below the recommended PSI, use an air compressor to add air in short bursts, checking the pressure frequently.
4. Once the correct PSI is reached, replace the valve cap and repeat for each tire.

Visit Us for Professional Tire Maintenance

Keeping your tires properly inflated is essential for a safe and efficient driving experience. If you’re unsure about when to pump your tires or need help with tire maintenance, visit our dealership for expert assistance. Our certified technicians can inspect, inflate, and maintain your tires to ensure your Subaru performs at its best.