We have compiled a list of the best tires for your Subaru Outback in 2023. Our list includes a range of options to fit different preferences and needs, from all-season tires to all-terrain tires. We have also taken into account factors such as durability, handling, and price to provide a comprehensive guide for Subaru Outback owners.
Understanding Tire Basics
Choosing the right tires for your Subaru Outback can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it’s important to understand the basics of tires to make an informed decision. Here are some important factors to consider when selecting tires for your vehicle.
Tire Size and Type
The size and type of tire that your vehicle requires is the first thing you need to consider. The size of your tire is indicated by a series of numbers and letters on the sidewall of your tire. For example, a common tire size for the Subaru Outback is 225/60R17. The first number indicates the width of the tire in millimeters, the second number represents the aspect ratio, which is the height of the sidewall as a percentage of the tire’s width, and the final number indicates the diameter of the wheel in inches.
In addition to size, you’ll also need to consider the type of tire. There are several types of tires available, including all-season, summer, winter, and all-terrain. All-season tires are designed to provide good performance in a variety of weather conditions, while summer tires are optimized for warm weather performance. Winter tires are designed for cold and snowy conditions, while all-terrain tires are designed for off-road use.
Tread Pattern
The tread pattern of a tire is another important factor to consider. The tread pattern refers to the design of the grooves and channels on the surface of the tire. The tread pattern affects the tire’s performance in wet and dry conditions, as well as its ability to grip the road in snow and ice.
Load Capacity and Speed Rating
Another important factor to consider when selecting tires is the load capacity and speed rating. The load capacity refers to the maximum weight that a tire can support, while the speed rating indicates the maximum speed that a tire can safely handle. It’s important to select tires that are appropriate for the weight of your vehicle and the speeds at which you’ll be driving.
Tire Brand and Price
Finally, you’ll need to consider the brand and price of the tire. There are many reputable tire brands available, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. It’s important to select a tire that provides good value for your money, balancing performance and price. Keep in mind that while a more expensive tire may provide better performance, it may not necessarily be the best choice for your specific needs.
By understanding the basics of tires, you’ll be better equipped to select the right tires for your Subaru Outback. Consider your driving needs, the conditions you’ll be driving in, and your budget when making your selection.
Why Choosing the Right Tires Matters
Choosing the right tires for your Subaru Outback is an important decision that can greatly impact your vehicle’s performance, safety, and overall driving experience. The tires are the only point of contact between your car and the road, so it’s crucial to select the right ones for your driving needs and conditions.
Here are a few reasons why choosing the right tires matters:
Safety
The right tires can greatly improve your vehicle’s safety on the road. Tires that are designed for specific weather conditions, such as snow or rain, can provide better traction and handling, reducing the risk of accidents. Additionally, tires with better grip and stability can help you avoid skids or hydroplaning, which can be especially dangerous in wet or slippery conditions.
Performance
The right tires can also improve your Subaru Outback’s performance. Tires that are designed for specific driving styles, such as touring or all-terrain, can provide better handling, cornering, and acceleration. Additionally, tires with better tread patterns and materials can reduce road noise and vibrations, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride.
Durability
Choosing the right tires can also impact the durability and lifespan of your Subaru Outback. Tires that are designed for specific driving conditions, such as off-roading or highway driving, can withstand wear and tear better, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Additionally, tires with better materials and construction can resist punctures, cuts, and other damage, prolonging their lifespan.
Overall, choosing the right tires for your Subaru Outback is an important decision that can greatly impact your safety, performance, and overall driving experience. By considering your driving needs and conditions, you can select the best tires that will provide the traction, handling, and durability you need.
Best All-Season Tires for Subaru Outback
When it comes to finding the best all-season tires for your Subaru Outback, there are a lot of options to choose from. However, two tires that stand out from the rest are the Michelin Defender T+H and the Continental TrueContact Tour.
Michelin Defender T+H
The Michelin Defender T+H is a popular choice for Subaru Outback owners who want a tire that can handle a variety of weather conditions. This tire is designed to provide excellent traction on both wet and dry roads, and it also performs well in light snow.
One of the standout features of the Michelin Defender T+H is its long tread life. This tire is built to last, and it comes with a 90,000-mile treadwear warranty. It also offers a comfortable ride thanks to its Comfort Control technology, which helps to reduce road noise and vibrations.
Continental TrueContact Tour
Another great option for all-season tires for the Subaru Outback is the Continental TrueContact Tour. This tire is designed to provide excellent traction in all weather conditions, including wet and snowy roads.
One of the key features of the Continental TrueContact Tour is its EcoPlus Technology, which helps to improve fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance. This tire also offers a comfortable ride thanks to its Comfort Ride Technology, which helps to reduce road noise and vibrations.
In addition to its performance and comfort features, the Continental TrueContact Tour also comes with a 90,000-mile treadwear warranty, making it a great value for Subaru Outback owners who want a tire that will last.
Overall, both the Michelin Defender T+H and the Continental TrueContact Tour are excellent choices for all-season tires for the Subaru Outback. They offer a combination of performance, comfort, and durability that make them stand out from the competition.
Best Winter Tires for Subaru Outback
When it comes to driving in winter conditions, it’s essential to have the right tires. The best winter tires for Subaru Outback are designed to provide excellent traction and handling on snow and ice-covered roads. In this section, we’ll look at two of the best winter tires for Subaru Outback.
Bridgestone Blizzak WS80
The Bridgestone Blizzak WS80 is one of the best winter tires for Subaru Outback. It features a unique tread pattern that provides excellent traction on snow and ice. The tire’s NanoPro-Tech Multicell compound helps to improve the tire’s grip on wet and slippery surfaces. The Blizzak WS80 also has a 3D Zigzag Sipe pattern that provides additional biting edges for improved traction.
Michelin X-Ice Xi3
The Michelin X-Ice Xi3 is another excellent winter tire for Subaru Outback. It features a unique tread design that provides exceptional traction on snow and ice. The tire’s FleX-Ice compound helps to maintain flexibility in cold temperatures, which improves traction on icy roads. The X-Ice Xi3 also has Cross Z Sipes that provide additional biting edges for improved traction on snow and ice.
Both of these winter tires are excellent choices for Subaru Outback owners who want to stay safe and secure on winter roads. When choosing between the two, it’s important to consider your driving needs and the conditions you’ll be driving in. The Bridgestone Blizzak WS80 is an excellent choice for drivers who encounter deep snow and icy conditions, while the Michelin X-Ice Xi3 is an excellent choice for drivers who encounter more moderate winter conditions.
Best Off-Road Tires for Subaru Outback
When it comes to off-road adventures, having the right tires can make all the difference. Here are two of the best off-road tires for your Subaru Outback:
BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 is a popular choice for off-road enthusiasts. It features an aggressive tread pattern that provides excellent traction on a variety of surfaces, including mud, snow, and rocks. The tire also has a durable construction that can withstand rough terrain and resist punctures.
One of the standout features of the KO2 is its ability to self-clean, which means that mud and debris won’t get stuck in the tread and affect performance. The tire also has a long lifespan, which makes it a good investment for those who plan on doing a lot of off-roading.
General Grabber AT2
Another great option for off-road adventures is the General Grabber AT2. This tire is designed to provide excellent traction in both wet and dry conditions, making it a versatile choice for those who want to take their Subaru Outback on a variety of terrain.
The Grabber AT2 features a unique tread design that provides excellent grip on loose surfaces, such as gravel and sand. It also has a robust construction that can handle punishment from rocks and other obstacles. The tire’s durability is further enhanced by its ability to resist punctures and cuts.
In summary, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 and the General Grabber AT2 are both excellent choices for off-road adventures in your Subaru Outback. Their aggressive tread patterns, durable construction, and self-cleaning capabilities make them ideal for tackling a variety of terrain.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Tires
When it comes to choosing the best tires for your Subaru Outback, there are several factors to consider. Here are some of the most important factors to keep in mind:
Tire Size
The first thing you need to consider when choosing tires for your Subaru Outback is the size. The size of your tires is determined by the manufacturer and can be found on the sidewall of the tire. It’s important to choose the right size tire for your vehicle to ensure optimal performance and safety. Installing the wrong size tire can affect your car’s handling and stability, and can even cause damage to your car’s suspension and brakes.
Tire Type
Another important factor to consider when choosing tires is the type of tire. There are several different types of tires available, including all-season tires, summer tires, winter tires, and performance tires. Each type of tire is designed to perform best under specific driving conditions. For example, all-season tires are designed to provide good performance in a wide range of conditions, while winter tires are designed to provide maximum traction in snow and ice.
Driving Conditions
The driving conditions you typically encounter will also play a role in determining the best tires for your Subaru Outback. If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow and ice, you’ll want to choose tires that are designed for winter conditions. If you do a lot of highway driving, you may want to choose tires that are designed for high-speed performance. And if you frequently drive on rough roads or off-road, you’ll want to choose tires that are designed for rugged conditions.
In conclusion, when choosing the best tires for your Subaru Outback, it’s important to consider the tire size, tire type, and driving conditions. By taking these factors into account, you can find the right tires to provide optimal performance, safety, and comfort for your driving needs.
How to Maintain Your Tires
Maintaining your tires is essential to ensure that they last long and perform well. Here are some tips to help you keep your Subaru Outback’s tires in good condition:
Check Tire Pressure Regularly
Checking your tire pressure regularly is crucial to maintaining your tires. Proper tire pressure ensures good fuel efficiency, better handling, and longer tire life. Underinflated tires can cause uneven wear, while overinflated tires can lead to poor handling and reduced traction. Check your tire pressure at least once a month and before long trips. Refer to your vehicle manual for the recommended pressure levels.
Rotate Your Tires
Rotating your tires regularly helps ensure even wear and extends their lifespan. It is recommended to rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or as recommended in your vehicle manual. Tire rotation patterns vary depending on the type of vehicle and tire. Consult your vehicle manual or a tire professional for the recommended rotation pattern for your Subaru Outback.
Check Tire Tread Depth
Tire tread depth is critical for maintaining traction and preventing hydroplaning. The minimum recommended tread depth is 2/32 of an inch. You can use a tread depth gauge or the penny test to check your tire tread depth. Insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head upside down. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s time to replace your tires.
Avoid Overloading Your Vehicle
Overloading your vehicle can cause excessive wear on your tires and affect their performance. Check your vehicle manual for the recommended weight limit and avoid exceeding it. Overloading can also cause your vehicle to handle poorly and increase the risk of accidents.
Avoid Potholes and Obstacles
Potholes and obstacles on the road can cause damage to your tires, wheels, and suspension. Avoid driving over potholes and obstacles if possible. If you have to drive over them, slow down and drive carefully.
By following these tips, you can help maintain your Subaru Outback’s tires and ensure they perform well and last long.
Conclusion
Choosing the best tires for your Subaru Outback can be a daunting task, but we hope that our guide has helped you narrow down your options. It’s important to consider your driving needs and the type of terrain you’ll be encountering, as well as your budget.
Based on our research and the reviews of other drivers, we recommend the Michelin Defender LTX as the best overall tire for the Subaru Outback. It offers excellent performance in all weather conditions, including snow and rain, and is durable enough to last for many miles.
For those on a budget, the Riken Raptor is a great choice. It offers good traction and handling at a lower price point.
If you frequently encounter off-road terrain, the Geolander G015 by Yokohama and the Pirelli Scorpion ATR are both excellent all-terrain options.
For all-season performance, the Continental TrueContact and the Toyo Extensa A/S are both reliable choices.
Ultimately, the best tire for your Subaru Outback will depend on your specific driving needs and preferences. We recommend consulting with a tire specialist or mechanic to help you make the best decision for your vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tires does Subaru recommend?
Subaru recommends Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) tires for their vehicles. These tires are specifically designed for the make and model of the vehicle and meet the manufacturer’s requirements. For the Subaru Outback, the OEM tires are usually Bridgestone, Continental, or Goodyear.
What brand of tires does Subaru use?
Subaru does not have a specific brand of tires that they use. They work with different tire manufacturers to select the best tires for their vehicles based on various factors such as performance, safety, and cost.
What’s the best tire for a Subaru Outback?
The best tire for a Subaru Outback depends on the driver’s needs and preferences. Some popular tire options for the Outback include the Michelin Defender LTX M/S, Pirelli Cinturato P7, and Yokohama Geolander G015. It’s important to consider factors such as driving conditions, mileage, and budget when selecting a tire.
How much does it cost to replace tires on a Subaru Outback?
The cost of replacing tires on a Subaru Outback varies depending on the brand and model of the tire, as well as the location and labor costs. On average, a set of four tires for a Subaru Outback can cost anywhere from $400 to $1000.
What is the best all season tire for Subaru Outback?
The best all-season tire for a Subaru Outback depends on the driver’s needs and preferences. Some popular options include the Michelin Defender LTX M/S, Continental TrueContact, and Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady. It’s important to consider factors such as driving conditions, mileage, and budget when selecting an all-season tire.
What are the quietest tires for a Subaru Outback?
The quietest tires for a Subaru Outback are typically those with a low noise rating. Some popular options include the Michelin Premier LTX, Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza Plus, and Continental CrossContact LX25. It’s important to note that tire noise can also be affected by factors such as road conditions and vehicle maintenance.