What tires does Subaru recommend for Forester?
The official guidance is to use the original equipment tire size and type listed for your Forester, with all-season tires serving most customers and winter tires recommended in snow-prone climates. For AWD Foresters, maintaining four matched tires is important for optimal performance.
To determine the exact recommendations for your specific vehicle, consult the tire placard on the driver’s door jamb and the owner's manual for the correct OE size, load index, and speed rating. Subaru does not mandate a single tire brand or model; instead, it emphasizes compatibility with the vehicle’s specifications and drivetrain requirements.
Key considerations for Forester tire selection
Subaru’s guidance centers on matching the original specifications, choosing climate-appropriate tires, and taking care with AWD performance and tire wear. These elements help preserve handling, safety, and fuel efficiency across model years and trims.
All-season versus winter tires
For most Forester owners in temperate climates, all-season tires provide practical year-round performance and comfort. In regions with substantial snow, ice, or prolonged winter weather, dedicated winter tires (with the 3PMSF mountain snow symbol) on all four wheels significantly improve traction, braking, and steering reliability. If you live in very hot climates, high-performance all-season or summer tires may be suitable, but ensure they meet the vehicle’s load and speed ratings and are compatible with the AWD system.
AWD considerations and tire wear
Forester’s all-wheel-drive system benefits from uniform tire wear and matching tire specifications. Replacing tires in sets—ideally all four—helps maintain consistent rolling diameter and AWD balance. If you must replace only two tires, choose tires with the same size, brand, and tread pattern on the same axle to minimize drivetrain stress and preserve handling characteristics.
Speed rating and load index
Choose tires whose speed rating and load index align with or exceed the OE specifications for your Forester. Tires with mismatched ratings can affect stability control, fuel economy, and overall performance, particularly on AWD configurations.
How to locate the exact OE tire size for your Forester
Find the tire size and inflation information on the placard located on the driver's door jamb and in the owner’s manual. Keep in mind that tire sizes can vary by model year, trim level, and wheel diameter, so verify the precise specification for your vehicle before purchasing replacements.
Practical steps for tire replacement
Begin by confirming the recommended OE size, type, and load/speed ratings, then select tires that match those specifications. If winter tires are elected, install them on all four wheels and ensure they carry the appropriate winter certification. Regularly check tire pressure, measure tread depth, and monitor wear to maintain AWD performance and safety.
Summary
Subaru Forester tire guidance centers on using the OE tire size and type, choosing climate-appropriate tires (all-season for everyday use; winter tires for snowy regions), and keeping four evenly worn tires on AWD models to preserve performance and safety. Always verify the exact specifications via the door placard and owner’s manual, and consult a Subaru dealer or tire professional if you have questions about your year and trim.
