What type of TPMS does Subaru use?
Subaru primarily relies on indirect TPMS in most recent U.S. models, rather than tire-by-tire sensor readings. Some markets or higher trims may use direct TPMS with sensors in each tire, so verify your exact model and year.
This article explains the difference between the two main TPMS types, how Subaru has tended to implement them, and how you can confirm the system in your specific vehicle.
Direct TPMS vs Indirect TPMS
There are two fundamental approaches to Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS). Direct TPMS (dTPMS) measures the actual air pressure in each tire using sensors installed in the wheel and transmits that data to the car’s computer. Indirect TPMS (iTPMS) does not measure pressure directly; instead it uses ABS wheel-speed sensors and other signals to infer pressure changes based on changes in wheel circumference. Subaru’s U.S. lineup has largely relied on indirect TPMS, but some regions and trims may employ direct TPMS.
Direct TPMS (dTPMS)
Direct TPMS uses wheel-mounted sensors that continually monitor the air pressure in each tire and report the readings to the vehicle’s system. This setup can display individual tire pressures on the dash and typically requires sensor maintenance or replacement when tires are changed or rotated. Subaru models that have direct TPMS generally enable the display of precise pressures for each tire and may require sensor relearn after tire service.
Indirect TPMS (iTPMS)
Indirect TPMS relies on ABS/traction-control sensors to estimate pressure by comparing the tires’ effective rolling diameters. It does not measure actual pressures with sensors in the tire, and many models using iTPMS only alert you when a tire is below the recommended pressure rather than showing exact numbers. Initialization or relearn can be needed after tire rotation or replacement in some configurations.
Verifying the TPMS Type on Your Subaru
To know the exact TPMS type for your specific Subaru, check the model-year documentation and consult your dealership. Variations can occur by market, trim level, and production year, so VIN-specific confirmation is the most reliable path.
Before you inspect or inquire, keep in mind that Subaru’s approach has evolved over time. If you own a newer model, your vehicle may be more likely to use indirect TPMS unless you’re in a market or on a trim where direct TPMS is standard.
Here are practical steps to verify your car’s TPMS type:
- Check the owner's manual or the official Subaru specification sheet for your model/year.
- Ask a Subaru dealer or authorized service center to confirm the TPMS configuration for your VIN.
- Inspect the instrument cluster: if you see individual tire pressures displayed for each wheel, it is typically a direct TPMS; a generic low-pressure warning is more common with indirect TPMS.
- Consider maintenance history: direct TPMS may require sensor relearn after tire changes or rotations; indirect TPMS usually does not require sensor replacement and relies on system calibration.
Knowing the TPMS type helps with tire maintenance, replacements, and any relearn procedures after service.
Summary
In practice, Subaru’s recent U.S. models have predominantly used indirect TPMS, which detects pressure issues through the vehicle’s ABS and related sensors rather than installed tire sensors. Direct TPMS is possible in some markets or trims, but you should verify your exact model and year with official documentation or a dealership. Understanding which system you have informs how you service tires, perform resets, and interpret TPMS warnings.
