Yes, the 2018 Subaru Outback comes with a compact spare tire. This tire is stored underneath the jack kit in the trunk. It is meant for temporary use to assist drivers in case of tire problems. For complete vehicle specifications, always refer to your owner’s manual.
Using the spare tire requires specific steps. Begin by loosening the lug nuts of the flat tire while the vehicle is still on the ground. Next, use the jack to lift the vehicle until the flat tire is off the ground. Remove the lug nuts completely and take off the flat tire. Then, position the spare tire onto the wheel hub. Replace and tighten the lug nuts by hand before lowering the vehicle. Finally, use the wrench to firmly tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern.
After using the spare tire, it’s essential to replace it with a full-size tire as soon as possible. The spare tire is typically smaller and designed for temporary use only. Understanding these tips will ensure that you can handle a flat tire situation confidently. Next, we will explore how to maintain and check your spare tire and tools for readiness.
Does the 2018 Subaru Outback Come with a Spare Tire?
No, the 2018 Subaru Outback does not come with a traditional spare tire. Instead, it is equipped with a tire repair kit.
Many modern vehicles, including the 2018 Subaru Outback, have shifted from including a spare tire to providing a tire repair kit. This kit typically contains sealant and an air compressor. The kit is designed to repair minor tire punctures quickly, allowing drivers to continue their journey without the need for a spare. This change can result in lighter weight and improved fuel efficiency for the vehicle.
What Type of Spare Tire is Included in the 2018 Subaru Outback?
The 2018 Subaru Outback includes a temporary spare tire, often referred to as a “donut” spare.
- Type of Spare Tire:
– Temporary spare tire.
– Compact design.
– Limited speed rating.
The temporary spare tire in the 2018 Subaru Outback is designed for temporary use and has specific limitations and characteristics.
1. Temporary Spare Tire:
The spare tire provided in the 2018 Subaru Outback is a temporary spare tire. This type of tire is smaller and lighter than a standard full-size tire, simplifying its storage and weight in the vehicle. Its compact design allows it to fit into limited spaces, maximizing cargo area. However, it is crucial to note that this tire is not intended for long-term use and should be replaced with a full-size tire as soon as possible.
2. Compact Design:
The compact design of the temporary spare tire helps conserve space within the vehicle. It typically features a narrower width and a smaller diameter than regular tires. This design also allows for easier handling and installation when a flat occurs. Despite its convenience, the compact size limits the tire’s performance, especially in terms of traction and stability.
3. Limited Speed Rating:
The temporary spare tire has a limited speed rating, which typically restricts usage to a maximum speed of around 50 mph (80 km/h). Driving faster than this can lead to tire failure and unsafe driving conditions. Thus, drivers must remain aware of these restrictions when using a spare tire to avoid potential accidents.
In summary, the spare tire included in the 2018 Subaru Outback is a temporary spare tire designed for limited and emergency use, featuring a compact design and speed limitations.
Where is the Spare Tire Located in the 2018 Subaru Outback?
The spare tire in the 2018 Subaru Outback is located under the cargo area floor. To access it, open the rear hatch. Then, lift the cargo floor cover to reveal the spare tire compartment. Remove the cover to retrieve the spare tire and necessary tools.
How Can You Access the Spare Tire in the 2018 Subaru Outback?
You can access the spare tire in the 2018 Subaru Outback by removing the trunk floor cover and then taking out the spare tire and tools located underneath it.
To access the spare tire, follow these steps:
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Open the trunk: Pull the trunk release lever or use the remote key fob to open the trunk of your Subaru Outback.
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Remove the trunk floor cover: Lift the floor cover in the trunk area. This cover is usually designed to be easily removed, allowing access to the space below.
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Locate the spare tire: Once the cover is removed, you will find the spare tire and other emergency tools stored beneath it.
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Remove the spare tire: Use the handle or the designated lift points to lift the spare tire out of its storage compartment carefully.
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Gather the tools: Along with the spare tire, you will find tools such as a jack and a wrench. These will be necessary for changing the tire.
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Refer to the owner’s manual: For specific instructions on tire changing procedures and safety tips, consult the owner’s manual. This document provides detailed information tailored to your vehicle model.
By following these steps, you will efficiently access the spare tire in your Subaru Outback when needed.
What Tools Do You Need to Change a Tire in the 2018 Subaru Outback?
To change a tire in the 2018 Subaru Outback, you need a few essential tools readily available in the vehicle.
- Spare tire
- Jack
- Lug wrench
- Wheel chocks
- Owner’s manual
These tools are vital for a successful tire change. Understanding their functions helps ensure you are prepared for a tire-related emergency.
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Spare Tire: The spare tire in the 2018 Subaru Outback is an essential tool, serving as a replacement for a flat tire. It allows the driver to continue travel until the damaged tire can be repaired or replaced.
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Jack: The jack is the device that lifts the vehicle off the ground. In the 2018 Subaru Outback, this tool is necessary for removing the weight from the tire that you want to replace. The vehicle includes a scissor jack that can be easily operated by turning a handle.
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Lug Wrench: The lug wrench is used to loosen and tighten the lug nuts that secure the tire to the wheel hub. The size and style of the lug wrench in the Outback is designed to fit the lug nuts precisely, ensuring that they can be tightened adequately after replacing the tire.
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Wheel Chocks: Wheel chocks are used to prevent the vehicle from rolling while it is jacked up. Placing these behind the wheels that remain on the ground ensures stability and safety during the tire-changing process.
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Owner’s Manual: The owner’s manual contains specific instructions and guidelines for changing a tire in the 2018 Subaru Outback. This includes safety precautions, proper jack placement, and torque specifications for lug nuts. Reading this information ensures that the task is performed correctly.
Equipped with these tools and knowledge, drivers can efficiently handle a flat tire situation. Regularly checking the condition of the spare tire and tools enhances overall road safety.
What Steps Should You Follow to Change a Tire in the 2018 Subaru Outback?
To change a tire in the 2018 Subaru Outback, follow these steps: safely park the vehicle, retrieve the spare tire and tools, loosen the lug nuts, lift the vehicle, remove the flat tire, install the spare tire, lower the vehicle, and finally tighten the lug nuts.
- Safely Park the Vehicle
- Retrieve the Spare Tire and Tools
- Loosen the Lug Nuts
- Lift the Vehicle
- Remove the Flat Tire
- Install the Spare Tire
- Lower the Vehicle
- Tighten the Lug Nuts
By following these steps, you can efficiently change a tire.
1. Safely Park the Vehicle:
To safely park the vehicle, select a flat surface away from traffic. Turn on the hazard lights and engage the parking brake. This prevents the vehicle from moving during the process, ensuring safety.
2. Retrieve the Spare Tire and Tools:
To retrieve the spare tire and tools, access the trunk area. The spare tire and the jack are usually located beneath the floor mat or inside a compartment. Gather all necessary tools, including the lug wrench.
3. Loosen the Lug Nuts:
To loosen the lug nuts, use the lug wrench. Turn the nuts counterclockwise while the tire is still on the ground. Loosening them before lifting the car prevents wheel spin.
4. Lift the Vehicle:
To lift the vehicle, position the jack under the jacking point indicated in the owner’s manual. Crank the jack to raise the vehicle until the flat tire is off the ground.
5. Remove the Flat Tire:
To remove the flat tire, unfasten the loosened lug nuts completely and set them aside. Pull the flat tire straight off the wheel hub.
6. Install the Spare Tire:
To install the spare tire, align it with the wheel hub and push it onto the stud bolts. Hand-tighten the nuts onto the bolts to secure the spare.
7. Lower the Vehicle:
To lower the vehicle, use the jack to slowly bring the vehicle back down until the spare tire touches the ground.
8. Tighten the Lug Nuts:
To tighten the lug nuts, use the lug wrench to turn them clockwise. Follow a star pattern to ensure even tightening. Make sure they are snug, which prevents them from loosening while driving.
Following these steps will allow you to confidently change a tire in your 2018 Subaru Outback, ensuring a smooth transition back to the road.
How Do You Inflate the Spare Tire in the 2018 Subaru Outback?
To inflate the spare tire in the 2018 Subaru Outback, you will need a tire inflator, access to a power source, and follow key steps including locating the spare tire, removing the valve cap, connecting the inflator, and monitoring the pressure.
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Locate the spare tire: The spare tire is stored under the trunk floor. Open the trunk and lift the floor panel to access it.
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Remove the valve cap: After retrieving the spare tire, locate the valve stem. Unscrew the valve cap by turning it counterclockwise to expose the valve opening.
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Connect the tire inflator: Attach the inflator nozzle to the valve stem. Ensure it is securely fastened to avoid air leaks.
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Power the inflator: Connect the inflator to a power source. If using a portable inflator, make sure it is charged or plug it into the vehicle’s power outlet if necessary.
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Inflate the tire: Start the inflator and monitor the inflation process. Check the tire pressure regularly using a gauge. The recommended pressure for the spare tire is usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s door jamb or in the owner’s manual.
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Detach and finalize: Once the tire reaches the correct pressure, turn off the inflator and carefully remove the nozzle from the valve stem. Replace the valve cap by screwing it back on to keep the valve clean.
Following these steps will ensure your spare tire is properly inflated and ready for use when needed.
Can You Drive Long Distances on a Spare Tire from the 2018 Subaru Outback?
No, you should not drive long distances on a spare tire from the 2018 Subaru Outback.
Spare tires, often referred to as “donut” tires, are designed for temporary use and have limitations. Most spare tires have a maximum speed limit of 50 mph (80 km/h) and are meant to be used for a short distance, typically no more than 70 miles (113 kilometers). They are smaller in size and may not provide the same handling and traction as regular tires, which can lead to safety issues on longer trips or at higher speeds. Therefore, it is essential to replace the spare tire with a full-size tire as soon as possible.
What Maintenance Tips Should You Consider for the Spare Tire in the 2018 Subaru Outback?
The maintenance tips you should consider for the spare tire in the 2018 Subaru Outback include regular inspections, appropriate storage, and proper inflation checking.
- Regular Inspections
- Appropriate Storage
- Proper Inflation Checking
- Tread Depth Maintenance
- Replacement When Necessary
Proper maintenance of the spare tire ensures safety and readiness for use in emergencies. Each of these tips focuses on ensuring that the spare tire is functional and in good condition.
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Regular Inspections:
Regular inspections of the spare tire involve visually checking for signs of damage such as cracks, bulges, or punctures. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends that spare tires should be inspected once a month. This ensures the spare is ready when needed. For example, a spare tire stored for long periods can deteriorate without visible damage; therefore, periodic checks are essential. -
Appropriate Storage:
Appropriate storage of the spare tire means keeping it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. The heat can damage the rubber materials in the tire, leading to cracks and failures. Subaru recommends storing the tire in the vehicle’s designated compartment. This protects it from external factors while maintaining accessibility. -
Proper Inflation Checking:
Proper inflation checking refers to maintaining the tire pressure at the manufacturer’s recommended levels. A well-inflated tire ensures optimal performance and safety during use. According to the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), a spare tire’s pressure should be checked monthly. The 2018 Subaru Outback’s spare tire should be inflated to about 60 PSI, which is typically higher than regular tires. -
Tread Depth Maintenance:
Tread depth maintenance is crucial for ensuring traction and stability. Although spare tires can often be a temporary solution, they still require sufficient tread depth to function effectively. The minimum tread depth for tires is usually 2/32 of an inch. To measure, insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head down; if you can see his entire head, the tire should be replaced. -
Replacement When Necessary:
Replacement when necessary involves removing the spare tire if it has become damaged or excessively worn. Typically, spare tires have a lifespan of about six years, regardless of usage. Subaru advises replacing the spare tire if noticeable wear appears, so it’s essential to keep an eye on its condition over time.
By following these maintenance tips, you ensure your spare tire remains functional and ready for emergency situations.
Where Can You Find More Information on Tire Maintenance for the 2018 Subaru Outback?
You can find more information on tire maintenance for the 2018 Subaru Outback in several places. First, refer to the owner’s manual, which provides detailed guidelines for tire care and specifications. Next, visit Subaru’s official website, where they have resources about maintenance tips and tire recommendations. You can also check automotive forums or enthusiast websites, which often discuss specific maintenance issues and share experiences from other Outback owners. Additionally, local Subaru dealerships or certified mechanics can offer valuable advice and service options for maintaining your tires.
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