Loading

What socket size are Subaru lug nuts?

The standard lug nut size for Subaru vehicles is 12mm. This size is used across most Subaru models, including the Impreza, Outback, Ascent, and others. Knowing the correct lug nut size is important when changing tires or performing other maintenance on your Subaru.


Understanding Lug Nut Sizes


Lug nuts are the nuts that secure the wheels to the vehicle's hubs. The size of the lug nuts is typically measured in millimeters (mm) and refers to the diameter of the threaded portion of the nut. Common lug nut sizes range from 10mm to 14mm, with 12mm being the most common size used on passenger vehicles.


Using the wrong size lug nuts can be dangerous, as they may not properly secure the wheel to the hub, potentially leading to the wheel coming loose while driving. It's important to always use the recommended lug nut size specified by the vehicle manufacturer.


Subaru Lug Nut Size


As mentioned, the standard lug nut size for Subaru vehicles is 12mm. This size is used across the majority of Subaru models, including:



  • Subaru Impreza

  • Subaru Outback

  • Subaru Ascent

  • Subaru Forester

  • Subaru Legacy

  • Subaru WRX


It's always a good idea to double-check your owner's manual or consult with a Subaru dealer to confirm the specific lug nut size for your Subaru model and year.


Changing Subaru Lug Nuts


When changing the tires or performing other maintenance that requires removing the wheels, it's important to use the correct size lug nuts and to tighten them to the proper torque specification. Subaru recommends a torque of 70-90 ft-lbs (95-122 Nm) for their lug nuts.


Be sure to use a torque wrench to ensure the lug nuts are tightened to the correct specification. Overtightening or undertightening the lug nuts can lead to issues with the wheel, such as uneven tire wear or even a wheel coming loose while driving.

Is 7/8 socket the same as 22mm?


No, a 7/8 socket is not exactly the same as a 22mm socket, but they are very close and often interchangeable. A 7/8" socket is slightly larger, at 0.8750.8750.875 inches (22.22522.22522.225 mm), compared to a 22mm socket which is exactly 222222 mm (0.8660.8660.866 inches). For a perfect fit, a 22mm socket is the correct tool for a 22mm fastener, but a 7/8" socket is often the best option for a 7/8" fastener. 

Size Metric Equivalent Imperial Equivalent
7/8" 22.22522.22522.225 mm 0.8750.8750.875 in
22mm 0.8660.8660.866 in 222222 mm
(function(){
(this||self).Wufxzb=function(c,e,f,l,k){var d=document.getElementById(c);if(d&&(d.offsetWidth!==0||d.offsetHeight!==0)){c=d.querySelector("div");var g=c.scrollWidth-c.offsetWidth,h=Math.min(e?g:0,g);c.scrollLeft=e&&(l||f)?0:h;var a=d.getElementsByTagName("g-left-button")[0],b=d.getElementsByTagName("g-right-button")[0];a&&b&&(e=RegExp("\\btHT0l\\b"),f=RegExp("\\bpQXcHc\\b"),a.className=a.className.replace(e,""),b.className=b.className.replace(e,""),h===0?a.className="pQXcHc "+a.className:(a.className=
a.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("pA30Ne")),h===g?b.className="pQXcHc "+b.className:(b.className=b.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("FpCCub")),setTimeout(function(){a.className+=" tHT0l";b.className+=" tHT0l"},50))}};}).call(this);(function(){var id='_5sclafXhBZvU7M8Pm8HC2QU_138';var rtl=false;var gecko=false;var edge=false;var soh=false;
(this||self).Wufxzb(id,rtl,gecko,edge,soh);})();



Is a 13/16 socket the same as 21mm?


No, 13/16" is not the same as 21mm, but they are very close and often used interchangeably. 13/16" is equal to $20.65$mm, while 21mm is equal to approximately 0.8260.8260.826 inches. A 21mm socket is technically larger and might have a bit of play on a 13/16" nut, while a 13/16" socket may be a tighter fit on a 21mm nut. 

  • 13/16": Exactly equal to 0.81250.81250.8125 inches or $20.6375$mm. 
  • 21mm: Exactly equal to $21$mm or approximately 0.826770.826770.82677 inches. 
  • Why the confusion: Many older or standard US-made nuts are 13/16", while modern vehicles often use 21mm nuts. Many people find that 13/16" sockets are a better, tighter fit on 21mm nuts due to slight variations in manufacturing tolerances. 



What size socket for Subaru lug nuts?


19mm socket
The lug nut size on most Subarus is 12mm x 1.25. To remove and install Subaru lug nuts, you'll need a 19mm socket. For most Subaru models, the hex size is 5/16 inch. Subaru's factory torque spec for lug nuts is 79 ft-lbs for steel wheels and 89 ft-lbs for aluminum wheels.



What size socket for Subaru tires?


19mm
The most common socket size of Subaru lug nuts is 19mm (3/4”).


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.