For the Subaru Solterra, any wheel that shows signs of bending, cracking, or severe corrosion must be replaced immediately. Continuing to use a damaged wheel can lead to tire separation or a serious loss of vehicle control while driving.
Wheel selection
When selecting replacement wheels for the Subaru Solterra, it is critical to ensure that they match the original specifications in terms of load capacity, diameter, rim width, and inset* to maintain proper handling and safety.
Genuine replacement wheels designed specifically for the Subaru Solterra are available through authorized SUBARU dealers, ensuring full compatibility and reliability.
*: Commonly referred to as offset.
SUBARU strongly advises against using the following types of wheels on the Subaru Solterra:
- Wheels of different sizes, specifications, or construction types
- Previously used wheels with unknown history
- Wheels that have been repaired after bending or deformation
■ When replacing wheels (vehicle with the tire pressure warning system)
The Subaru Solterra is equipped with integrated tire pressure warning valves and transmitters within the wheels, allowing the system to monitor tire pressure continuously and provide early warnings in case of pressure loss.
Whenever wheels are replaced, it is essential to install compatible tire pressure warning valves and transmitters to maintain full functionality of the Subaru Solterra monitoring system.
WARNING
■ When replacing wheels
- Never install wheels that differ from the specifications listed in the Subaru Solterra Owner's Manual, as this may compromise vehicle stability and handling performance.
- Do not use inner tubes in wheels designed for tubeless tires. This practice can result in sudden failure and may lead to a serious accident causing injury or death.
■ Wheel bolts
To reduce the risk of accidents and ensure safe operation of the Subaru Solterra, follow these precautions when handling wheel bolts:
- Avoid excessive tightening of wheel bolts.
- Do not apply oil or grease to wheel bolts.
Lubricants may cause over-tightening, leading to damage of the bolts or the wheel itself, and may also result in loosening during operation.
- If wheel bolts show signs of cracks, deformation, or worn surface coating,
have them replaced immediately by a SUBARU dealer.
Failure to replace damaged bolts may result in loosening and possible wheel detachment.
■ Use of defective wheels prohibited
Never use cracked, deformed, or structurally compromised wheels on the Subaru Solterra.
Such defects may cause gradual or sudden air loss, significantly increasing the risk of an accident during driving.
NOTICE
■ Replacing tire pressure warning valves and transmitters (vehicle with the tire pressure warning system)
- Since tire replacement or repair can affect the operation of tire pressure sensors in the Subaru Solterra, always have such work performed by a SUBARU dealer or a qualified service technician.
- Purchase tire pressure warning valves and transmitters only from authorized
SUBARU dealers to ensure proper compatibility and system performance.
Using non-genuine wheels or components may cause the Subaru Solterra tire pressure monitoring system to malfunction or provide inaccurate readings.
Aluminum wheel precautions
- Always use SUBARU-approved wheel bolts and tools specifically designed for aluminum wheels installed on the Subaru Solterra.
- After rotating or replacing tires, check the tightness of the wheel bolts after driving approximately 1000 miles (1600 km) to ensure they remain properly secured.
- Exercise caution when installing tire chains, as improper use may scratch or damage the aluminum wheels of the Subaru Solterra.
- When balancing wheels, use only SUBARU genuine balance weights or equivalent, along with a plastic or rubber hammer to prevent surface damage.