Introduction
When it comes to venturing off-road, many Subaru owners wonder if they should invest in all-terrain tires for their vehicles. In this article, we will explore the benefits of running all-terrain tires on a Subaru Outback and how it can enhance your off-road experience. We will also discuss the considerations and modifications required, such as tire size and lift kits. By the end, you will have a comprehensive understanding of the advantages and limitations of all-terrain tires on a Subaru Outback and be able to make an informed decision.
Why Air Down for Off-Roading?
One of the first things you should consider when going off-road is airing down your tires. Many people overlook this step, but it can make a significant difference in your comfort and overall performance. By reducing tire pressure, your tires become more flexible, allowing them to absorb shocks and obstacles more effectively. This increased flexibility also reduces the chances of puncturing your tires on sharp rocks or other hazards. Furthermore, airing down increases your tire’s contact patch with the ground, providing better grip and traction.
Airing down is a simple process that only takes about five minutes. You don’t need to invest in an expensive deflator kit; a budget-friendly option like the ones available on Amazon will suffice. These deflators thread onto your valve stems, allowing you to air down all four tires simultaneously for a more efficient process.
Finding the Right All-Terrain Tire Size
Choosing the correct tire size for your Subaru Outback is crucial, especially if you have a lift kit installed. The speaker in the video initially purchased the Falcon Wild Peak all-terrain tires in 235/75R15 size for their 3rd gen Forester but couldn’t fit them due to a one-inch lift and incorrect assumptions about tire specifications.
It’s important to note that the second number in the tire size (75 in this case) represents the sidewall height as a percentage of the tire’s width. Therefore, a 75 percent sidewall height in a larger size tire will differ from a 75 percent sidewall height in a smaller size tire. The speaker eventually found a suitable replacement in the BF Goodrich KO2 in a 215/75R15 size.
To find the right tire size for your Subaru Outback, you can use online resources such as Tire Size Comparison Calculator, which allows you to compare different tire sizes and visualize their dimensions in the real world.
Advantages and Disadvantages of All-Terrain Tires
Once you’ve found the right tire size, it’s essential to understand the advantages and potential drawbacks of all-terrain tires on your Subaru Outback. The speaker in the video experienced a noticeable improvement in grip and performance, especially when driving off-road. All-terrain tires provide enhanced traction and stability, making your vehicle more capable on various terrains, including mud, gravel, rocks, snow, and more. They also offer increased puncture resistance, giving you peace of mind during your off-road adventures.
However, it’s crucial to consider the downsides as well. All-terrain tires tend to be heavier, which can result in decreased acceleration and fuel efficiency. The extra weight can also affect the overall handling of the vehicle. Additionally, all-terrain tires can be noisier on pavement compared to standard all-season tires, creating a hum at higher speeds.
Fortunately, there are various all-terrain tire options available for Subaru Outback owners to choose from. Some popular options include the Cooper Discoverer AT3, Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015, General Grabber ATX, and Continental TerrainContact. Each tire has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, so it’s essential to assess your specific needs and preferences before making a decision.
Lift Kits and Clearance Considerations
Contrary to popular belief, running all-terrain tires on a Subaru Outback doesn’t necessarily require a lift kit. The primary constraint is the spring perch on the strut, which determines the distance between the tire and the car body. Lift kits primarily raise the height of the vehicle, but they don’t affect this distance significantly.
In fact, the speaker in the video found that their one-inch lift hindered the ability to fit larger tires due to the limited clearance in the wheel well. They even had to make modifications, such as cutting away some plastic fender liners and hammering back the pinch weld, to accommodate the larger tires. On the other hand, a two-inch lift includes components that recenter the wheel, providing more room for larger tires without running into clearance issues.
It’s crucial to assess the specific clearance limitations of your Subaru Outback and consult with a professional or experienced off-roader before deciding on a lift kit or tire size.
Conclusion
Running all-terrain tires on a Subaru Outback can significantly improve your off-road experience, providing better traction, stability, and puncture resistance. Airing down your tires enhances these benefits and increases your comfort during off-road excursions. However, it’s essential to consider the potential downsides, such as decreased fuel efficiency and handling, and choose the right tire size and brand that suits your specific needs.
Remember to thoroughly research and consult with experts or experienced off-roaders when considering modifications like lift kits to ensure optimal clearance and compatibility. With the right combination of all-terrain tires, tire size, and modifications, you can confidently explore the great outdoors in your Subaru Outback. Happy off-roading!
Note: This article has been written based on the information provided in the video transcript. It is the result of following the guidelines provided in “https://rankmath.com/kb/score-100-in-tests/". The content has been rewritten and modified to ensure uniqueness and SEO friendliness.
