The 2017 Subaru Forester Touring has its spare tire and tire jack located beneath the trunk lining. It can hold a temporary spare tire. A full-size spare may not fit in the storage area. Always use the spare to replace a flat rear tire, and refer to your owner’s manual for further details.
To access the spare, drivers can simply lift the cargo floor cover. This straightforward process reveals the spare tire compartment, which also includes tools for tire changing. The presence of a full-size spare tire in the Forester Touring enhances peace of mind for long journeys and off-road adventures, offering assurance that drivers can handle unforeseen situations on the road.
As we explore the features of the 2017 Forester Touring further, it’s essential to consider how this vehicle’s tire-related capabilities contribute to its overall functionality and user experience. Understanding these elements will help potential buyers make informed decisions about its suitability for their needs.
Where Is the Spare Tire Located in the 2017 Forester Touring?
The spare tire in the 2017 Forester Touring is located under the cargo floor in the rear of the vehicle. To access it, lift the cargo floor cover in the trunk area. This area provides a secure space for the tire, keeping it out of sight and protected from the elements.
What Type of Spare Tire Does the 2017 Forester Touring Come With?
The 2017 Subaru Forester Touring comes equipped with a full-size spare tire.
- Full-size spare tire
- Tire specifications
- Compatibility with all-wheel drive
- Storage location within the vehicle
- Owner opinions on full-size spare tire benefits
The features and specifications of the spare tire enhance the vehicle’s overall capability.
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Full-Size Spare Tire: The 2017 Forester Touring includes a full-size spare tire. A full-size spare mirrors the vehicle’s regular tires in size and design. This allows immediate usability without compatibility issues during a flat tire scenario.
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Tire Specifications: The spare tire’s specifications match the original tires used on the Forester Touring. This consistency ensures that the spare tire maintains similar performance characteristics, such as grip and balance.
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Compatibility with All-Wheel Drive: The all-wheel-drive system functions optimally with a full-size spare. Using a tire of the same size helps maintain balanced traction and handling. Mismatched tire sizes can lead to drivetrain issues.
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Storage Location Within the Vehicle: The spare tire is stored under the cargo floor in the trunk. This design maintains a clean and organized interior space without sacrificing storage capacity.
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Owner Opinions on Full-Size Spare Tire Benefits: Many owners express satisfaction with having a full-size spare tire. They appreciate the confidence it provides during long trips. Critics argue that a smaller, lightweight spare would save space and weight, but most drivers prefer the reliability a full-size tire offers.
In summary, the 2017 Subaru Forester Touring provides a full-size spare tire that supports its all-wheel drive functionality while ensuring drivers have the reliability needed during unforeseen flat tire situations.
How Do You Access the Spare Tire in the 2017 Forester Touring?
You can access the spare tire in the 2017 Forester Touring by opening the rear cargo area, removing the cargo cover, and lifting the floor panel.
To elaborate on this process:
- Open the rear cargo area: Start by unlocking and opening the rear hatch of the vehicle to provide access to the cargo space.
- Remove the cargo cover: If your vehicle has a cargo cover, retract or remove it to clear the area above the spare tire. This cover is usually removable by pulling it out or lifting it off, depending on the model specifics.
- Lift the floor panel: The spare tire is located beneath the flat cargo floor. Simply lift the floor panel, which may be secured with clips or hinges, to reveal the compartment where the spare tire is stored.
- Inspect the spare tire: Once the panel is lifted, you will see the spare tire secured in place. In most Forester models, this tire is full-sized, meaning it matches the other tires in size and design.
Following these steps ensures that you can easily access the spare tire as needed for roadside emergencies or tire replacements.
Why Is a Full-Size Spare Tire Important for the 2017 Forester Touring?
A full-size spare tire is important for the 2017 Forester Touring because it ensures safety, reliability, and convenience in emergencies. The availability of a full-size spare allows drivers to replace a flat tire without compromising performance or safety.
According to the Tire Industry Association, a full-size spare tire provides the same handling characteristics and performance as the tires that are regularly used on the vehicle. This is crucial for maintaining control and stability, especially during emergency situations or when driving at higher speeds.
The significance of a full-size spare tire stems from several factors. First, a small or temporary spare tire, often called a “donut,” generally has limited speed and distance capabilities. These limitations can lead to unsafe driving conditions. In contrast, a full-size spare matches the other tires in size and tread design. This parallelism contributes to balanced traction and steering. Furthermore, changing tires is common during long trips, where road conditions may lead to increased tire wear or potential punctures.
In technical terms, a full-size spare tire is defined as being the same dimension and construction type as the original equipment tires. It provides uniformity in friction and roll resistance, ensuring consistent handling characteristics. This helps avoid issues like oversteering or understeering, which are dangerous, particularly at high speeds or on winding roads.
The process of using a full-size spare improves the vehicle’s operational efficiency. When a driver replaces a damaged tire with a full-size spare, the car can continue to be driven at normal speeds. This is vital in situations where a driver may encounter hazardous weather, such as rain or snow. For instance, a flat tire on a busy highway would necessitate immediate action to avoid further complications. A full-size spare allows the driver to travel safely to a service station or a safe area.
Specific conditions that contribute to the necessity of a full-size spare include rough terrain, potholes, and road debris, which can all result in tire damage. For example, off-road adventures in a Forester Touring might increase the risk of encountering such hazards. Having a full-size spare ensures that drivers can handle unforeseen tire troubles without compromising their journey or safety.
What Tools Do You Need to Change a Tire in the 2017 Forester Touring?
To change a tire in the 2017 Forester Touring, you will need specific tools.
- Spare tire (full-size)
- Tire jack
- Lug wrench
- Wheel chocks
- Gloves
- Safety glasses
These tools are essential for a safe and effective tire change. Understanding their functions prepares you for potential issues on the road.
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Spare Tire (Full-Size): The spare tire is designed to match the vehicle’s original tires in size and performance. A full-size spare offers better handling and safety compared to a compact spare. The 2017 Forester Touring includes a full-size spare, which enhances road comfort and reliability.
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Tire Jack: A tire jack lifts the vehicle, allowing access to the wheel for tire replacement. The 2017 Forester Touring typically uses a scissor jack, which is compact and easy to operate. Beyond basic use, it is essential to ensure the jack is positioned correctly under the vehicle’s lifting points to prevent accidents.
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Lug Wrench: The lug wrench is used to loosen and tighten the nuts that secure the tire to the wheel hub. The Forester’s factory-provided lug wrench fits the lug nuts properly, increasing efficiency. It’s recommended to first loosen the lug nuts while the tire is still on the ground for stability.
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Wheel Chocks: Wheel chocks are safety devices that prevent the vehicle from rolling during the tire change process. Placing chocks behind the opposite tire adds an extra layer of security and minimizes the risk of accidents.
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Gloves: Wearing gloves protects your hands from dirt, grease, or sharp edges while changing the tire. Gloves also offer better grip and dexterity when handling tools.
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Safety Glasses: Safety glasses protect your eyes from debris or hazards that may occur during the tire-changing process. They are vital to ensuring your safety in various environments, especially if operating near traffic.
By preparing these tools in advance, you can make the tire-changing process smoother and safer.
How Does the Spare Tire Location Impact Cargo Space in the 2017 Forester Touring?
The spare tire location impacts cargo space in the 2017 Forester Touring by occupying a designated area within the rear compartment. The Forester contains a full-size spare tire that is stored beneath the cargo floor. This placement reduces the available cargo space but retains a practical design for easy access.
When the spare tire is in place, it takes up room that could otherwise be used for additional luggage or equipment. However, having a full-size tire is advantageous during emergencies, as it provides better handling and safety compared to smaller temporary tires.
In summary, while the full-size spare tire in the 2017 Forester Touring does take up some cargo space, it meets the needs of drivers who prioritize safety and reliability on the road. The trade-off between space and functionality is a key consideration for users of the vehicle.
Can You Use a Different Size Spare Tire in the 2017 Forester Touring?
No, you cannot use a different size spare tire in the 2017 Forester Touring. Using a tire with a different size can affect the vehicle’s handling and performance.
The manufacturer specifies that the spare tire should match the original tire size to maintain safety and functionality. A non-matching spare can lead to uneven wear on the tires and can also impact the vehicle’s all-wheel drive system, which is crucial for proper torque distribution. It is always best to use a full-size spare or a compact spare that is specifically designed for the vehicle.
Which Safety Features Support the Spare Tire in the 2017 Forester Touring?
The 2017 Subaru Forester Touring supports the spare tire with several safety features.
- Full-size spare tire
- Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
- Vehicle stability control (VSC)
- Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
- All-wheel drive (AWD) system
The listed features enhance the overall safety and performance of the Forester Touring in various driving conditions.
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Full-size spare tire: The 2017 Forester Touring includes a full-size spare tire that matches the specifications of the other tires. This feature ensures consistent handling and safety when a tire replacement is necessary.
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Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS): The TPMS alerts drivers when tire pressure drops below recommended levels. This proactive safety feature helps maintain proper tire pressure, which is crucial for optimal vehicle performance and safety.
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Vehicle stability control (VSC): The VSC system helps prevent skidding or loss of control during sudden maneuvers. It assists in maintaining traction and stability, particularly when driving on slippery or uneven surfaces.
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Anti-lock braking system (ABS): The ABS prevents the wheels from locking during hard braking. This feature helps the driver maintain steering control during emergency stops, thereby enhancing safety.
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All-wheel drive (AWD) system: The AWD system improves traction by distributing power to all four wheels. This improves handling and safety, especially in challenging weather conditions like rain or snow.
Overall, these safety features collectively contribute to the reliability and security that the 2017 Subaru Forester Touring promises to its drivers and passengers.
Are There Differences in Spare Tire Setup Between the 2017 Forester Touring and Other Models?
Yes, there are differences in the spare tire setup between the 2017 Forester Touring and other models. The Touring model features a full-size spare tire, while other models typically come equipped with a compact spare.
The 2017 Subaru Forester Touring includes a full-size spare tire, which provides better performance and safety compared to the compact spares found in lower trims like the Base or Premium models. A full-size spare allows for normal driving speeds and distances, ensuring stability and better handling after a flat tire. In contrast, compact spare tires, often called “donuts,” are designed for temporary use and have speed and distance limitations. This distinction may influence consumers when choosing between models based on potential tire problems.
A full-size spare tire offers several advantages. It boosts drivers’ confidence by eliminating the need for cautious driving with a limited-use spare. Statistically, 27% of drivers experience a flat tire each year, making reliable spare solutions essential. The cost of a tire failure can be high, often requiring towing services, which adds to the overall expenses. By choosing the Touring model with a full-size spare, drivers can avoid these inconveniences.
On the downside, a full-size spare takes up more space and adds weight to the vehicle. This setup reduces cargo capacity compared to compact spares, which are smaller and lighter. For example, the added weight of a full-size tire may slightly affect fuel efficiency. According to Subaru, the average compact spare is about 50% lighter than a full-size tire, which may be a consideration for some drivers.
For individuals deciding between the Touring and other models, consider your driving habits and needs. If you frequently travel in areas with limited services or plan longer trips where a flat tire is more likely, the full-size spare may offer peace of mind. Conversely, if you prioritize cargo space and lighter weight for daily commuting, a model with a compact spare may suffice. Always assess your circumstances before making a decision.
What Should You Know About Maintenance for the Spare Tire in the 2017 Forester Touring?
You should know the following about maintenance for the spare tire in the 2017 Forester Touring: Regular inspection and proper storage are essential for ensuring readiness.
- Regular Inspection
- Proper Storage Conditions
- Correct Inflation Pressure
- Replacement Guidelines
- Usage Limitations
To maintain the integrity and functionality of the spare tire, it is crucial to focus on these maintenance areas.
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Regular Inspection:
Regular inspection of the spare tire in the 2017 Forester Touring involves checking for visible damage, wear, or signs of aging. It is advisable to inspect the spare at least once every six months. This ensures that it is free from cracks or bulges, which can compromise safety during use. According to Subaru guidelines, tire degradation can lead to failure when needed most. Therefore, users should be proactive about checking their spare’s condition. -
Proper Storage Conditions:
Proper storage of the spare tire is essential. The 2017 Forester Touring offers a designated compartment for the spare, which protects it from environmental factors. Storing the spare in a clean, dry place shielded from direct sunlight helps prevent premature deterioration. The Tire Industry Association emphasizes that UV light and moisture can weaken tires over time, so maintaining optimal storage conditions extends the tire’s lifespan. -
Correct Inflation Pressure:
Maintaining the correct inflation pressure is vital for the spare tire’s performance. The recommended pressure for the spare in the Forester Touring should be listed in the owner’s manual, typically around 60 PSI. A properly inflated tire ensures better handling and reduces the risk of damage when in use. Tire pressure monitoring systems can alert drivers to low pressure; however, manual checks are still crucial, especially before long trips. -
Replacement Guidelines:
Replacement guidelines for the spare tire are important to follow for safety reasons. Typically, spare tires should be replaced every six years but can last longer if properly maintained. If the spare tire has been used, it is imperative to replace it immediately, as its lifespan is significantly reduced once mounted. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, regular replacement and adherence to guidelines improve safety. -
Usage Limitations:
The usage limitations of a spare tire must be understood. The 2017 Forester Touring’s spare tire is meant for temporary use only. It is usually smaller and less durable than regular tires. Manufacturers recommend driving at lower speeds (typically not exceeding 50 mph) and for short distances (generally not exceeding 70 miles) when using the spare. Following these guidelines ensures that the vehicle remains safe and operable until a full tire can be replaced.