What tires are standard on a Subaru Forester?
In the United States, Forester base trims typically come with 225/65R17 all-season tires on 17-inch wheels, while higher trims commonly use 235/60R18 all-season tires on 18-inch wheels. Exact sizes vary by model year and market, so always check the door placard for your specific vehicle.
The Forester’s tire setup has evolved across its current generation, with changes tied to refreshes, trim levels, and regional offerings. This article outlines the typical configurations you’ll encounter and explains how to confirm your exact specification for replacement or maintenance.
Typical tire configurations in recent model years
Below are the sizes you’ll most often see on recent Forester models, noting that variations may occur by year and region.
Base vs higher trims
- Base trims and most entry models: 225/65R17 all-season tires on 17-inch wheels
- Higher trims and popular option packages: 235/60R18 all-season tires on 18-inch wheels
These configurations reflect Subaru’s standard equipment for the mainstream Forester lineup in the United States in recent years. Always validate against the specific vehicle’s placard and official documentation.
Why the size varies by year and market
Several factors drive tire-size differences across Forester generations, trims and regions:
Regional and model-year variations
- Design changes during mid-cycle refreshes that swap wheel diameters or tire profiles
- Trim-level differences that pair each wheel size with different body kits or suspension tuning
- Regional market differences where some countries receive different wheel options or bundled tires
- Availability of OEM tire packages or optional packages that alter the standard fitment
Understanding these variables helps buyers and owners avoid mismatches when replacing tires or buying wheels.
How to verify your exact tire size
To confirm the precise tire size for your Subaru Forester, use the steps below. This ensures you have the correct size for replacement or rotation intervals.
- Check the tire sidewall on any currently mounted tire for the size code (example: 225/65R17). This is the most direct indicator of what your car uses.
- Inspect the driver’s side door jamb placard, which lists the recommended tire size and the correct cold inflation pressures for the vehicle when loaded normally.
- Consult the owner’s manual or a dealer’s service department if you’re uncertain, especially for special editions or regional variants.
- When replacing, choose tires that match the specified size, load index, and speed rating; if you’re considering a different size, consult a tire professional to ensure safe handling and warranty compliance.
Following these steps will help ensure you maintain the Forester’s intended handling, comfort, and safety characteristics.
Summary
Across its recent generation, the Subaru Forester’s standard tires have typically been 225/65R17 on base models and 235/60R18 on higher trims, both sets being all-season compounds. However, wheel diameter, tire width, and profile can vary by year, trim, and market. Always verify the exact specification on the door placard or in the owner’s manual before buying replacements or tires for the vehicle.
What brand of tires does Subaru use?
Subaru uses a variety of tire brands depending on the model and trim, with original equipment (OE) suppliers including Falken, Michelin, Bridgestone, and Goodyear. For example, the 2024 Crosstrek uses Falken Ziex ZE001A all-season tires as original equipment on specific trim levels, while other models may come equipped with tires from brands like Michelin or Goodyear.
- Falken: The Falken Ziex ZE001A all-season tire is an original equipment option for the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek on the Sport and Limited trims.
- Michelin: Michelin is a trusted supplier for various Subaru models, offering a range of options for different needs.
- Bridgestone: Bridgestone is another major brand that Subaru sources tires from.
- Goodyear: Goodyear is also a frequent supplier of tires for Subaru vehicles.
- Yokohama: Yokohama has partnered with Subaru, including for the WRX STI in motorsports, and the Yokohama Geolandar is a popular choice for many Subaru models.
What tires come on a Subaru Forester?
The specific tires on a Subaru Forester depend on the model year and trim level, but common original equipment (OE) sizes are P225/60R17, P225/55R18, and P235/50R19. Many different brands like Yokohama, Continental, Falken, and Michelin produce the factory-installed tires, which are often all-season or touring tires, with specific models depending on the trim.
Common tire sizes
- P225/60R17: Often found on the base or standard trims, for example, a 2022 model's standard trim uses this size.
- P225/55R18: Common on trims like the Sport or Limited.
- P235/50R19: May be found on higher trims or specific models.
Common brands and tire types
- Brands: Subaru partners with various tire manufacturers for its original equipment. Examples include Yokohama, Continental, Falken, and Michelin.
- Tires: The tires are typically all-season touring tires, but the specific model varies. For instance, a 2024 Forester might come with a Yokohama AVID Ascend LX or a Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus on certain trims.
How to find your specific tire size
- Check the driver's side doorjamb: A sticker on the frame will list the recommended tire size and pressure for your vehicle.
- Consult the owner's manual: This document provides all the official specifications for your Forester.
What comes standard on a Subaru Forester?
2026 Subaru Forester Limited vs. Touring
| 2026 Subaru Forester Limited | 2026 Subaru Forester Touring | |
|---|---|---|
| Panoramic Moonroof | Standard | Standard |
| EyeSight Driver Assist Technology | Standard | Standard |
| Blind-Spot Detection | Standard | Standard |
| Reverse Automatic Braking | Optional | Standard |
What are the factory installed tires?
OE tires (sometimes called OEM tires for “Original Equipment Manufacturer”) are those tires that are specified by the vehicle manufacturer and are initially fitted to the vehicle when new.
