Standing beside your Subaru Forester in the tire shop parking lot, staring at a sidewall covered in cryptic numbers and letters can feel like trying to decode an alien language when you just want to replace a worn tire safely. Understanding the sizing of your Subaru tires isn’t just about buying the right replacement—it directly impacts your performance, fuel economy, and safety. Rafferty Subaru is breaking tire sizes down in layman’s terms.
Breaking Down Your Subaru Tire Code
Let’s consider an example tire code you might find on your Subaru tires, such as “225/60R17 99H”. Each component in this string reveals crucial information about your tire’s capabilities and compatibility:
- 225: Tire width in millimeters from sidewall to sidewall
• 60: Aspect ratio (sidewall height as percentage of width)
• R: Radial construction (standard for all modern passenger tires)
• 17: Rim diameter in inches (must match your Subaru wheels exactly)
• 99: Load index (each tire supports up to 1,709 lbs safely)
• H: Speed rating (tested safe for sustained speeds up to 130 mph)
Why These Numbers Matter
Subaru tires with incorrect specifications can compromise your system’s performance. Mismatched sizes create uneven rotation speeds that stress drivetrain components, potentially causing expensive repairs.
The load index ensures your tires handle your vehicle’s weight plus passengers and adventure gear safely. Finally, speed ratings provide the performance margin that Subaru engineering demands, even during spirited highway driving.
Find the Right Subaru Tires at Rafferty Subaru
Ready to choose the Subaru tires that match your driving adventures perfectly? Visit Rafferty Subaru and speak with our tire specialists to find the ideal size, type, and performance rating for your specific model and driving style. Schedule your tire consultation today and get your vehicle adventure-ready again.
