Tire Center

Choosing the right tires for where you drive.

Different climates have certain weather patterns associated with them. This means you may encounter different driving conditions throughout the year than someone with the same vehicle in a different area. Selecting the right kind of tires for the conditions you often travel in are crucial for your safety and how your Subaru handles the road.

So, how should you decide? Begin by determining your average driving conditions for the year. Is the climate warm all year long, or do you experience a combination of weather patterns with the possibility of light-to-heavy snowfall? After you analyze which climate conditions you commonly encounter, remember that seasonal extremes can occur, or you may travel to an area that has different conditions than what you're used to.

To help you make a more informed decision, here are some common classifications of tires - each with abilities suited for different climates and driving conditions. As always, we are happy to discuss tire options with you at our tire center, so you can make the best choice for your Subaru.

The Importance of Good Tires

The area where your tires actually contact the road is very small, sometimes no bigger than the size of your hand. This makes it all the more important that they have adequate tread life and are in good condition to help ensure the safety and performance of your Subaru.

What's the point of winter tires if I have all-wheel drive?

It's common to think the Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive System of your Subaru is enough to handle what winter brings, but it becomes less effective in slippery and cold conditions without winter tires. Remember, your tires are your vehicle's only point of contact with the road. Imagine yourself running through a mix of packed snow and ice with running shoes on, versus running through the same conditions with snow boots on. Which pair of footwear is more likely to help you keep your balance or prevent you from slipping? Having the right kind of tires on your Subaru maximizes performance and, most importantly, safety.

Should I purchase winter tires?

The general guideline: If you live in a region where temperatures reach near or below freezing for extended periods of time, winter tires are ideal because their rubber compound allows them to stay pliable and deliver ample traction. If you have experienced what it's like to drive with clenched hands on the steering wheel during frequent snowfalls, winter tires may bring calmness to your grip.

Is it worth it for two sets of tires?

Additional grip and safety are worth it, especially during snowy conditions. The cost of a set of winter tires has the potential of saving you much more, by helping avoid accidents due to slick winter driving conditions. Another way to look at it: Only half the year's amount of miles you drive will be on each set. By having a designated winter (cold temperature) setup, you will increase the lifetime of your other (warm temperature) setup when it's used during the warmer months.

Couldn't I use winter tires all year long?

We do not recommend using winter tires all year long. As temperatures rise in spring through summer, the soft rubber compound of winter tires tends to wear out faster than all-season tires on warm, dry roads. In the long run, it will save you money to use your winter tires only when the season calls for them.

If you decide to purchase a set of four winter tires, our factory trained technicians can properly swap them on and off each season with proper dismounting, mounting and balancing care. We want you to stay safe in the winter months and our team is standing by to assist you with a winter tire setup that's right for your Subaru.

You can browse by brand, size and type of tire by clicking the button below.