Alton Brobst If you’re a Subaru owner with 18-inch wheels, finding the right tires for your vehicle is crucial. Your wheels not only affect the aesthetics of your car, but they also play a major role in your car’s overall performance, handling, and safety. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which tires will work best for your Subaru 18 inch wheels. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide to tire compatibility specifically for Subaru 18 inch wheels, covering all the important aspects you need to know when selecting the perfect tires for your car.
Understanding Wheel and Tire Compatibility
Before we dive into the different types of tires compatible with Subaru 18 inch wheels, it’s important to understand the basics of wheel and tire compatibility. When upgrading your tires, you need to ensure that they fit your wheels, or else they won’t work properly. Here are the main aspects of wheel compatibility you need to know:
- Bolt pattern: This is the number of bolt holes your wheels have and the diameter of the circle they form. For Subaru 18 inch wheels, the bolt pattern is typically 5×114.3mm.
- Diameter: This refers to the diameter of your wheels. For 18 inch wheels, the diameter is, of course, 18 inches.
- Width: This is the width of your wheels. Generally, Subaru 18 inch wheels have a width of 7-8 inches.
- Offset: This refers to the distance between the wheel’s mounting surface and its centerline. For Subaru 18 inch wheels, the offset is typically between 40-55mm.
When it comes to tire compatibility, you need to ensure that the tire diameter and width match your wheels. For Subaru 18 inch wheels, the ideal tire size is usually 235/45R18. Other tire sizes might also work, but you should consult your owner’s manual or a tire specialist to avoid compatibility issues.
Different Types of Tires
Now that you understand wheel and tire compatibility for Subaru 18 inch wheels, let’s take a look at the different types of tires available.
All-Season Tires
All-season tires are a popular choice for Subaru owners who live in areas with mild weather. They’re versatile and can handle light snow and rain, as well as dry conditions. All-season tires are also great if you don’t want to switch out your tires every season. Some top-rated all-season tires compatible with Subaru 18 inch wheels include:
- Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 3+
- Continental ExtremeContact DWS06
- Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS
Summer Tires
Summer tires are specifically designed for warm weather, providing excellent grip and handling on dry and wet roads. However, they’re not suitable for cold or snowy conditions. If you live in an area with hot summers, summer tires could be a great choice for your Subaru 18 inch wheels. Some top-rated summer tires compatible with Subaru 18 inch wheels include:
- Bridgestone Potenza S-04 Pole Position
- Michelin Pilot Super Sport
- Continental ExtremeContact Sport
Winter Tires
If you live in an area with harsh winters, winter tires are a must-have to keep you safe on the road. They’re designed to provide excellent traction on snow and ice, and they’re also compatible with Subaru 18 inch wheels. Some top-rated winter tires include:
- Bridgestone Blizzak WS90
- Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4
- Continental WinterContact SI
The Importance of Proper Tire Pressure, Balancing, and Alignment
No matter which type of tire you choose, it’s important to maintain proper tire pressure, balancing, and alignment. These factors can greatly affect your car’s performance, handling, and safety. Make sure to regularly check your tire pressure and adjust it to the manufacturer’s recommendation. Additionally, make sure to have your tires balanced and aligned regularly to ensure even wear and tear.
FAQ
1. Can I use wider tires on my Subaru 18 inch wheels?
Although a wider tire might provide better traction, it’s not always the best choice for Subaru 18 inch wheels. Make sure to select a tire that matches your wheel’s width and maximizes the recommended tire width.
2. Should I switch to winter tires every season?
If you live in an area with harsh winters, switching to winter tires every season is highly recommended. Winter tires provide the necessary traction to keep you safe on snowy and icy roads.
3. Can I change my Subaru 18 inch wheels to a different size?
Changing your wheel size can greatly impact your car’s performance and safety. Make sure to consult a tire specialist or your owner’s manual before making any changes to your wheel size.
Conclusion
Choosing the right tires for your Subaru 18 inch wheels doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By understanding wheel and tire compatibility, and exploring the different types of tires available, you can make an informed decision to improve your car’s performance, handling, and safety. Remember to maintain proper tire pressure, balancing, and alignment to ensure your tires last as long as possible. With the right tires on your Subaru 18 inch wheels, you’ll be ready to hit the road confidently.
