When you’re cruising down the highway in your Subaru Crosstrek, the last thing you want to worry about is tire pressure. Proper tire inflation is crucial for fuel efficiency, tire longevity, and most importantly, safety. Let’s get you up to speed with the Subaru Crosstrek’s recommended tire pressures for various generations, trim levels, and engines. Plus, we’ll teach you how to reset that pesky low tire pressure light.
Recommended Tire Pressure: By Generation
Subaru Crosstrek Generations:
- 1st Generation (2013-2017)
- 2nd Generation (2018-Present)
| Generation | Recommended PSI (Front/Rear) |
|---|---|
| 1st Gen | 33/32 PSI |
| 2nd Gen | 35/33 PSI |
Remember, these are general recommendations. Always refer to your owner’s manual or tire sidewall for specific instructions.
Trim Levels and Their Impact
Different trim levels may come with various wheel sizes, potentially affecting the recommended tire pressure. Below is a breakdown for the popular trims.
Subaru Crosstrek Trim Levels:
- Base
- Premium
- Limited
- Sport
| Trim Level | Recommended PSI (Front/Rear) |
|---|---|
| Base | 33/32 PSI |
| Premium | 33/32 PSI |
| Limited | 35/33 PSI |
| Sport | 35/33 PSI |
Does Engine Type Affect Tire Pressure?
While engine type doesn’t directly influence tire pressure, the overall vehicle weight could. The Crosstrek offers two primary engine types:
- 2.0L 4-Cylinder
- Hybrid
Let’s break it down:
| Engine Type | Recommended PSI (Front/Rear) |
|---|---|
| 2.0L 4-Cylinder | 33/32 PSI |
| Hybrid | 34/33 PSI |
Hybrids generally weigh a bit more due to the battery pack. Adjust your tire pressure accordingly.
Year-by-Year Tire Pressure Guide for Subaru Crosstrek
| Year | Summer Tires (PSI) | Winter Tires (PSI) |
|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 32 | 34 |
| 2013 | 32 | 34 |
| 2014 | 32 | 34 |
| 2015 | 33 | 35 |
| 2016 | 33 | 35 |
| 2017 | 33 | 35 |
| 2018 | 33 | 35 |
| 2019 | 33 | 36 |
| 2020 | 33 | 36 |
| 2021 | 33 | 36 |
| 2022 | 33 | 37 |
| 2023 | 34 | 37 |
| 2024 | 34 | 37 |
These are average recommended pressures. Always refer to your Subaru manual or door sticker for specific recommendations.
Resetting the Low Tire Pressure Light
That blinking light can be an annoyance, but it’s there to keep you safe. Here’s how to reset it:
- Ensure all tires are inflated to their proper levels.
- Locate the TPMS reset button. In most Crosstreks, it’s under the steering wheel.
- Turn the ignition to the “On” position but don’t start the engine.
- Press and hold the TPMS reset button until the tire pressure light blinks three times.
- Wait for several minutes with the ignition on. The light should eventually stay off, indicating it has been reset.
If the light doesn’t turn off or comes back on later, it might be time for a visit to your local Subaru dealer.
Why is Tire Pressure So Important?
There’s more to tire pressure than just avoiding a flat or ensuring you get the smoothest ride. Proper tire pressure affects various aspects of your vehicle’s performance:
Fuel Efficiency
- Under-inflated tires: These can reduce your gas mileage since they make the engine work harder. A tire under-inflated by just 10 PSI can reduce fuel efficiency by 3%!
Tire Longevity
- Uneven wear: Improper tire pressure can lead to uneven wear, reducing the tire’s lifespan and your investment.
- Heat build-up: Over-inflated tires can cause excessive heat build-up, further diminishing the tire’s lifespan.
Safety
- Reduced handling: Under or over-inflated tires can reduce the vehicle’s handling, making it harder to turn, especially in emergencies.
- Increased risk of blowouts: Extreme tire pressures can lead to tire blowouts, which can be catastrophic at highway speeds.
Subaru Crosstrek Tire Care Tips
- Regularly check your tire pressure: At least once a month or before long trips. Morning checks are best when the tires are cold and haven’t been driven for a few hours.
- Invest in a quality tire pressure gauge: Digital gauges tend to be more accurate and are quite affordable.
- Don’t forget the spare: It’s easy to forget about your spare tire until you need it. Periodically checking its pressure ensures it’s ready when you need it.
- Rotate your tires: Every 6,000 to 8,000 miles to ensure even wear and extend their lifespan.
- Monitor for wear and damage: Regularly inspect your tires for any damage, cuts, punctures, or bulges.
Conclusion
Your Subaru Crosstrek deserves the best care, and understanding tire pressures is an integral part of that care. By ensuring you’re at the right PSI for your generation, trim, and engine type, you guarantee the safety, efficiency, and longevity of your vehicle. Embrace the freedom of the open road, but always make tire safety a top priority. Safe driving!