2021 Subaru Outback — Tire Size & Pressure

Quick Answer

• OEM Tire Size: 225/65R17 (Base, Premium, Limited, Touring), 225/60R18 (Limited XT, Touring XT, Onyx Edition XT), 225/55R17 (Wilderness)
• Recommended Cold Tire Pressure (Door Placard):
  • 225/65R17: 35 PSI (Front) / 33 PSI (Rear)
  • 225/60R18: 35 PSI (Front) / 33 PSI (Rear)
  • 225/55R17 (Wilderness): 36 PSI (Front) / 34 PSI (Rear)
• Bolt Pattern: 5x114.3mm
• Wheel Size: 17x7J or 18x7J
• Load Index/Speed Rating: Varies by tire, but generally 102H or 100H for 17-inch, 100V or 99H for 18-inch.
• Spare Tire Size: T155/80D17 (temporary spare)
• TPMS Frequency: 315 MHz

Tire Sizes by Trim

Recommended Replacement Tires

Selecting the right replacement tires for your 2021 Subaru Outback is essential for maintaining its renowned comfort, safety, and all-weather capability. Here are a few popular options across different price tiers:

• Mid-Range: Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail

  • Price: $ (Good value)
  • These tires are an excellent choice for Outback owners who venture off-pavement regularly but still want comfortable street manners. They offer a more aggressive tread pattern than typical all-season tires, providing better grip on loose surfaces without significant road noise.

• Premium All-Season: Michelin CrossClimate2

  • Price: $$$ (Higher price point)
  • The CrossClimate2 is a leader in the all-season category, particularly excelling in winter conditions for a non-dedicated winter tire. They offer superb wet and dry grip, a quiet ride, and long tread life, making them a fantastic option for those who prioritize safety and performance in varying climates.

• Value All-Season: Cooper Discoverer Endura

  • Price: $ (Budget-friendly)
  • The Cooper Discoverer Endura provides a solid balance of all-season performance, comfort, and durability at an attractive price. They are a reliable choice for daily driving and offer good tread life.

When to Inflate to Max Load PSI

The 2021 Subaru Outback is not a heavy-duty truck, so the concept of "max load psi" for heavy hauling doesn't typically apply in the same way. The recommended cold tire pressures found on your door placard are designed to provide the optimal balance of ride comfort, handling, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity for normal driving conditions, including when the vehicle is fully loaded with passengers and cargo up to its Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).

Always adhere to the pressures listed on your vehicle's door jamb placard. Overinflating tires beyond these recommendations can lead to:

• A harsher ride
• Reduced traction
• Uneven tread wear (center wear)
• Increased risk of tire damage from impacts

Only in very specific, rare circumstances, such as carrying an unusually heavy, concentrated load that exceeds the distribution capabilities of the standard inflation (and almost certainly exceeds the Outback's payload capacity), would a slight increase in pressure be considered, and even then, only after consulting a tire professional and ensuring it doesn't exceed the tire manufacturer's maximum inflation pressure marked on the tire sidewall.

Lug Nut Torque & Pattern

Maintaining the correct lug nut torque is crucial for wheel security and proper seating. For the 2021 Subaru Outback:

• Lug Nut Torque: 89.6 lb-ft (122 Nm)
• Tightening Pattern: Always tighten lug nuts in a star or crisscross pattern. This ensures even pressure distribution around the wheel hub, preventing warping of the wheel or rotor and ensuring the wheel is properly centered.

Here's a typical 5-lug star pattern:

1. Start with any lug nut.
2. Move directly across to the lug nut furthest from it.
3. Move to an adjacent lug nut.
4. Move directly across to the one furthest from it.
5. Finish with the last lug nut.

Always use a torque wrench to achieve the precise specification. Avoid over-tightening with an impact gun without proper torque control, as this can damage the studs or wheel.

Common Tire Issues for This Vehicle

The 2021 Subaru Outback is generally well-behaved when it comes to tires, but like any vehicle, some common issues can arise:

• Uneven Wear: Misalignment, improper tire pressure, or worn suspension components can lead to uneven wear patterns. Rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles and have your alignment checked periodically to mitigate this.
• Road Noise: Some owners report increased road noise, especially as OEM tires wear down or with certain all-terrain replacement tires. This is often subjective, but choose tires known for quiet operation if this is a concern.
• Hydroplaning (worn tires): As tire tread depth decreases, the ability to channel water away from the tire footprint diminishes, increasing the risk of hydroplaning in wet conditions. Regularly check tread depth and replace tires before they reach the minimum legal limit (2/32nds of an inch).
• TPMS Malfunctions: While not exclusive to Subaru, TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) sensors can occasionally fail due to battery depletion (typically after 7-10 years) or damage. If your TPMS light comes on after checking pressures, it may indicate a sensor issue.

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