What size tires are on a Subaru Crosstrek?
There isn’t a single tire size for every Crosstrek model. The exact size depends on the model year and trim level. In recent years, Subaru has used 16-, 17-, or 18-inch wheels with a range of tire sizes, so to know your precise specification you should check the door jamb placard or the owner's manual.
Overview: tire sizes vary by year and trim
Across generations, the Crosstrek has shifted wheel sizes and corresponding tire dimensions. This means two Crosstreks that look similar can carry different tires if they are different trims or model years. The most reliable way to know your exact size is to consult the vehicle’s documentation or the tire placard located on the door frame.
Determining the exact size for your Crosstrek
To get the precise tire size for your specific vehicle, start with the most authoritative sources provided by Subaru and the vehicle itself.
Before you consult these sources, here is how you verify the tire size on your Crosstrek:
- Check the door jamb placard on the driver’s side. This label lists the Original Equipment (OE) tire size for your specific trim and year.
- Look at one of the tires themselves. The size is imprinted on the sidewall in a format like P215/60R17 or 225/50R18.
- Consult the owner’s manual or a Subaru dealership for the exact specification tied to your VIN, especially if the vehicle has aftermarket changes.
By verifying these sources, you ensure you have the correct tire size for maintenance, replacement tires, and wheel/tct options.
Typical sizes seen on recent Crosstrek models
Below are representative configurations observed on more recent Crosstrek trims. The precise size depends on year, trim, and optional packages, so use this as a general guide rather than a guarantee for every unit.
- 16-inch wheels: commonly paired with smaller-profile tires (roughly around 205/60R16 or similar) on base trims.
- 17-inch wheels: often paired with mid-range tires (roughly around 225/60R17 or 225/65R17 on certain trims).
- 18-inch wheels: typically seen on higher trims and sport-oriented variants, with sizes around 225/50R18 or 235/45R18 depending on the year and package.
When shopping for replacements, matching the original size (as listed on the placard or owner’s manual) is the safest route to preserve handling, traction, and instrument accuracy. If you need to go up or down in size, consult a tire professional to understand impacts on speedometer readings, load capacity, and clearance.
If you’re replacing tires or upgrading wheels
Consider these practical tips to ensure proper fit and performance:
- Match the load index and speed rating to or above what Subaru specifies for your model.
- Maintain the overall diameter to avoid speedometer error and drivetrain/ABS issues; a larger diameter can affect accuracy and clearance.
- Check for tire rotation and alignment recommendations in the owner’s manual, especially if you’re using a different tire size.
Always confirm your exact size before purchase, especially if you’re swapping wheel sizes or moving between trims with different OE configurations.
Summary
In short, there is no single “Crosstrek tire size.” The correct size depends on the year and trim, with common configurations spanning 16-, 17-, and 18-inch wheels and a range of tire sizes from roughly 205/60R16 up to 225/50R18 in recent generations. To be sure, check the door placard, the tire sidewalls, the owner’s manual, or a Subaru dealer for the exact OE specification for your vehicle.
