What size tires can I put on my Subaru Forester?
In most cases, you should stick to the factory tire size shown on the door placard or in the owner's manual. If you go a bit larger or smaller, aim to keep the overall diameter within about 2% of stock and ensure your wheels have compatible width and offset. Exact sizes vary by model year and trim, so verify your vehicle’s specification before purchasing tires.
Know your model year and trim
The Forester has seen multiple generations with different wheel sizes and tire specs. The precise recommended size is printed on the driver’s door placard and in the owner's manual. Because some trims come with different wheel packages, confirming the exact specification for your vehicle is essential before buying or mounting tires.
Where to find the official size
Look for the tire size listing on the door jamb placard near the driver's door. It will show the front and rear tire sizes, along with load index and speed rating. For any deviation from stock, proceed cautiously and consult a tire professional if needed.
How to determine safe sizes
To determine what sizes fit safely, you should assess diameter change, clearance, and drivetrain considerations. The Forester’s all-wheel-drive system and suspension rely on matched tire sizes across axles, and large deviations can affect handling and ABS/traction control.
- Keep the overall diameter within roughly ±2% of stock to avoid speedometer inaccuracy and AWD drivetrain concerns.
- Match wheel width and offset to the stock setup to prevent rubbing or contact with fenders, struts, or suspension components.
- Avoid mixing different sizes on the same axle or across the vehicle; if you must mix, front and rear diameters should be as close as possible.
- Choose tires with the same load index and speed rating on all four corners to preserve intended performance and safety.
- When increasing size, expect potential changes in ride quality, braking distance, and fuel economy; consult a tire shop for a professional assessment.
Before evaluating options, ensure you understand the rules of thumb for size changes:
In short, most Forester owners stay within one size up or down from OEM when possible, especially to preserve AWD behavior and ride balance. If you’re unsure, seek guidance from a Subaru dealer or a qualified tire shop.
Special cases: lifted, lowered, or wider setups
If you’re modifying your Forester with a lift, leveling kit, or switching to wider tires, the calculations become more complex. Clearance with the fenders, brake calipers, and suspension components must be verified, and you may need spacers, alignment adjustments, or even aftermarket wheels designed for the new setup. These changes can also affect warranty coverage and dealership support, so proceed with professional coaching.
- Limit diameter increases to a conservative range and confirm clearance at full suspension travel and with steering lock.
- Ensure proper wheel offset and width to avoid rubbing and to maintain steering geometry.
- Re-check alignment after any change in tire size or suspension height, and consider a wheel alignment with all four wheels.
- Document and store any modifications, including tire size changes, in case you seek warranty service or service history.
Guidelines for modified configurations:
Aftermarket or modified setups demand careful planning and a professional assessment to prevent safety issues and drivetrain strain.
Spare tires and maintenance considerations
Spare tire recommendations and maintenance play a role in tire sizing decisions. The Forester’s compact spare, if equipped, is intended for temporary use and often has a different size than the regular tires. Do not rely on a spare for extended periods, and ensure you know the spare’s size and speed rating. When using non-stock sizes, verify you have a compatible spare or a plan for a timely replacement.
- Always replace tires in sets (all four) or at least ensure even wear across axles to maintain AWD performance.
- Regularly check tire pressures, tread depth, and wear patterns; mismatched wear can affect handling.
- Rotate tires according to the vehicle’s service schedule to maximize even wear and performance.
Practical notes about torque, mounting, and care:
Summary
Choosing tires for a Subaru Forester requires starting with the OEM size from the door placard or manual and staying near that specification. A safe approach is to limit diameter changes to about 2% and to match width, load, and speed ratings across all four tires. If you’re considering larger or wider tires, or any suspension modifications, consult a tire professional to assess clearance, alignment, and AWD implications. Always prioritize safety, reliability, and the manufacturer’s guidance when selecting tire sizes for your Forester.
