What is the recommended PSI for Subaru Impreza?
The recommended tire pressure for a Subaru Impreza varies by year, trim and tire size, so there isn’t a single universal figure. In practice, most Impreza models call for roughly 32 psi in the front tires and about 30 psi in the rear, with exact values shown on the door placard or in the owner's manual.
Understanding why the numbers vary
The exact PSI depends on factors such as tire size, wheel type, and whether the car is loaded or driven under specific conditions. Always start with the figures printed on the vehicle’s placard and consult the owner’s manual for any model-year notes or tire-specific guidance.
Where to find the official values
To locate the official numbers for your vehicle, consult the primary sources listed below.
- Door jamb placard on the driver's side: shows recommended cold inflation pressure for front and rear tires, and the correct tire size.
- Owner's manual: includes a Tires or Specifications section with model-year specific values and notes about different tires and loads.
- Subaru's official resources or a dealership: can confirm values for unusual configurations (temporary spares, run-flat tires, aftermarket wheels).
Always rely on these sources rather than generic estimates.
How to check and adjust tire pressure
Follow these steps to ensure you inflate to the correct level and maintain safety and performance.
- Check the tires when they are cold (before driving or after the car has been parked for several hours).
- Use a reliable tire gauge and remove the valve cap.
- Compare the current pressure to the recommended value on the placard/manual; if low, add air in small increments (about 1–2 psi at a time).
- Recheck with the gauge after adding air to ensure you have reached the target pressure.
- Repeat the process for all four tires, ensuring they are within the same cold-pressure range as specified.
- Reinstall valve caps and recheck tire pressure again after a short drive if you expect heat buildup to alter the numbers.
Maintaining proper tire pressure improves fuel economy, handling, and tire wear; never rely on high-speed or warm checks for accuracy.
Special considerations
Winter and temperature effects
Ambient temperature affects tire pressure: as temperatures drop, tire pressure can fall by about 1 psi for every 10°F (5–6°C) drop in temperature. Plan to check and adjust in winter and when switching between seasonal tires.
Load and driving conditions
If you regularly carry heavy loads or drive primarily on the highway at high speeds, some Impreza owners and manuals recommend keeping tires near the higher end of the recommended range. Do not exceed the tire’s maximum sidewall pressure or the vehicle’s placard.
Summary
There isn’t a single universal PSI for all Subaru Impreza models. The official numbers are on the door placard and in the owner's manual, typically around the low 30s to 32 psi in the front and slightly lower in the rear. Always check your exact vehicle’s placard, inflate tires when cold, and adjust for load and weather using the steps outlined above to maintain safety and performance.
