Do Subarus come with a spare tire?
Most Subarus sold in the United States still include a spare tire or a tire-repair kit, though the exact configuration depends on the model, year and trim. Always verify the specific equipment for the exact vehicle you’re considering.
What you typically find in Subaru models
Subaru’s approach to spare tires has varied over the years and across trims. Here’s a general guide to what buyers may encounter in modern Subaru models.
- Spare tire (temporary compact donut) with a jack and lug wrench — common on many mid- and higher-trim levels.
- Full-size spare — less common in recent years but still available on some trims or older models.
- Tire repair kit (sealant and inflation device) — increasingly used on base trims or newer models to save weight and space.
- No spare tire, relying on a run-flat setup or a tire-inflator kit — rare but possible on certain trims or markets; verify for your vehicle.
Conclusion: The exact spare-tire configuration varies by model and year. Check the owner's manual, dealer window sticker, or the trunk area to confirm what ships with a specific Subaru you’re considering.
Model-by-model snapshot
The following snapshot covers current Subaru models sold in the U.S. as of 2024–2025. Availability can vary by trim and market, so always confirm the exact configuration for the vehicle you’re evaluating.
Forester
In many recent Forester trims, a compact spare tire lives in the cargo area under the floor, with a jack and lug wrench included. Some base or special trims may lean toward a tire-repair kit instead. Always check the specific year and trim for certainty.
Outback
The Outback has historically included a spare tire on several trims, but Subaru has occasionally shifted to a tire-repair kit on certain configurations in newer years. Inspect the cargo floor to determine what’s included for your model year.
Crosstrek
The Crosstrek family commonly ships with either a spare donut or a tire-repair kit, depending on year and trim. If you rely on a full-size spare, verify which option is standard for the exact vehicle you’re considering.
Impreza, Legacy, and Ascent
Impreza and Legacy have traditionally included a spare tire across many trims, while the three-row Ascent has similarly offered a spare in many configurations. As with other models, confirm the exact setup for the specific year and trim you’re looking at.
What to do before you buy or when you’re checking a used Subaru
If you’re shopping, use these steps to verify spare-tire configuration yourself:
- Ask the dealer to show the spare, jack, and tools or confirm the absence of a spare in favor of a repair kit.
- Inspect the trunk floor to locate the spare or kit and check for the presence of a lug wrench and jack.
- Consult the owner’s manual for the exact equipment and recommended replacement procedures.
Taking these steps helps ensure you know exactly what’s included and what you’d need to purchase separately if you want a traditional spare for peace of mind.
Summary
Subarus generally provide either a spare tire or a tire-repair kit, with the specific arrangement tied to model, year and trim. While many newer models still include a compact spare, some base trims or recent configurations may use a repair kit to save weight. Always verify the exact configuration for the specific vehicle you’re considering by checking the trunk, owner’s manual, or the dealer’s documentation. In all cases, a spare or repair solution is a key factor in planning trips and roadside contingencies.
