What size are Subaru Legacy tires?
The tire size for a Subaru Legacy isn’t fixed across all years and trims; it varies by model year, trim level, and wheel package. In practice, many modern Legacies use 16–18 inch wheels, with tire widths typically falling in the 205–235 mm range and aspect ratios around 50–65. To know the exact size for your specific car, check the door placard, the owner’s manual, or inspect the tire sidewall.
Why tire sizes vary across generations
Subaru redesigned the Legacy multiple times, often increasing wheel sizes and changing tire specifications with each generation and trim level. This means a base model from one year can wear a different tire size than a higher-trim model in a different year. The most reliable sources are the vehicle’s official labels and documentation.
To determine your exact tire size, consult these sources:
- Door jamb placard: look for the line that reads “Tire size” near the driver’s door frame.
- Owner’s manual or service/warranty booklet: lists the recommended tire size for each trim.
- Current tires on the car: read the size molded on the tire sidewall (for example, P205/65R16).
In practice, these sources will tell you the precise size installed on your specific Legacy, which is essential for replacements or upgrades.
Common diameter ranges by wheel size
As a general guide, factory tire setups for many Legacy models fall into these diameter ranges. Exact sizes depend on year and trim, so verify with the sources above before purchasing.
- 16-inch wheels: commonly about 205/65R16 or 215/60R16
- 17-inch wheels: commonly about 225/55R17
- 18-inch wheels: commonly about 235/45R18
Reading the tire size code
Understanding the tire size code helps you confirm the correct specification when you can’t access the placard or manual. Here’s how to decode a typical tire size such as P205/65R16:
- P: passenger car tire type (LT would indicate light truck)
- 205: tire width in millimeters from sidewall to sidewall
- 65: aspect ratio; height of the sidewall as a percentage of the width
- R: radial construction
- 16: wheel diameter in inches
By reading these elements, you can verify compatibility and ensure you’re selecting the correct tire size for your Legacy.
Summary
Key takeaway: There isn’t a single tire size for all Subaru Legacy models. The exact size depends on the model year, trim, and wheel package. Most Legacies use 16–18 inch wheels with tire widths generally ranging from about 205 to 235 mm and aspect ratios around 50–65. Always confirm the exact size with the door placard or the owner's manual, and use the tire sidewall code to understand the specification when inspecting or replacing tires.
