Can I drive my Subaru on a flat tire?

Driving on a flat tire is not a good idea. Your Outback engine will keep running with a flat tire, but you could damage your wheel by continuing to drive on a flat.

Will a temporary sealant fix my Subaru's flat tire?

Temporary sealants will solve your problem… for a little bit. If you’ve seen temporary or emergency tire sealant before (it usually comes in a can), it can be tempting to turn to this as a solution for your flat tire. Keep in mind that these fixes could buy you some time to get to Firestone Complete Auto Care for a proper repair, but they could also cause some harm in the process (for example, damage to your TPMS). Plus, using a product like this could void your tire warranty.

Can’t I just keep my spare tire on for a while?

Don't rely on your spare tire for too long. Your 2003 Subaru Outback may come equipped with a compact spare tire. A spare is different than an everyday tire and is only designed to be driven a certain number of miles at lower speeds.

Who repairs Subaru Outback tires?

Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care can carry out most Subaru Outback tire repairs, but the extent of the damage will determine if we are able to help.

Why do my Outback tires keep losing air?

Your Outback tires might keep losing air due to a leaking valve stem, puncture or hole in the tire tread or sidewall, or damaged wheel.

Is it necessary to replace all four Subaru Outback tires at once?

It's important to consider replacing your Outback tires in pairs or all four at once for safety and performance reasons, even if only two of them appear to be worn. If the remaining two tires are significantly newer, they may have different grip than the older tires, which can affect your vehicle’s handling. Always double-check your owner's manual since some vehicles require all four tires to be replaced if there's a tread difference of more than 3/32”.

2003 Subaru Outback Flat Tire Repair Service

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Get Your Subaru Outback Tire Repaired

Urban areas are booming. New roads are being built, and old ones are getting a face lift. It seems construction is everywhere these days! That means more tire-damaging road debris and flat tires. Firestone Complete Auto Care is here for you when your 2003 Subaru Outback needs flat tire repair or inspection. In some cases, a tire doesn’t have to be replaced – it can be plugged and patched with a simple repair. Depending on the damage, though, a repair might not be the right move. Our technicians can determine which option is best for your situation. We'll start by evaluating the state of wear, the location of damage, type of damage, and the size of the damage.

If we determine that your 2003 Subaru Outback tire can be safely repaired, we’ll get to work on the steps to fix it: (1) Take the tire off the wheel for easy inspection, (2) fill in the area that’s been punctured to prevent damage from moisture, and (3) secure and seal the inner tire liner to ensure the tire is airtight.

Subaru Outback Tire Replacement

Sometimes, 2003 Subaru Outback tire damage calls for more than a repair. Tires with less than 2/32nd inch tread remaining can't be repaired, no matter how minor the damage. This tread depth indicates that the tire is worn out, and needs to be replaced. Some tire issues are easy and straightforward to repair, but other kinds of tire damage can’t be properly repaired. Tire damage that can’t be repaired effectively include a puncture in the tire that is ¼ inch or greater in diameter; a puncture in the tire sidewall (or anywhere else that’s not within the tread area); a tire with multiple punctures that are less than 16 inches apart; and a tire with cuts or tread separation.

Depending on what Subaru recommends for your car, you’ll want to consider purchasing one new tire, two new tires, or a new full set. For example, it’s usually recommended that you replace all four tires at the same time on AWD vehicles. Why? Because having four identical tires is vital for the AWD system to perform like it’s supposed to. However, this may not be necessary if your remaining three tires are new. It’s possible that you will only need to replace the tire that’s damaged – just make sure it’s the same size, type, and brand as the rest of your tires. Still not sure how many tires to replace or what kind to buy? A trained tire technician at Firestone Complete Auto Care is ready and waiting to answer your questions.

Tire Inspection Services for Your Subaru Outback

Some tire issues can cause you to have a flat, but other damage isn't so noticeable right away. Inconspicuous issues like bulging sidewalls, exhaust noise, leaks, or bent rims may indicate issues that need immediate attention. Stop tire damage in its tracks. Start with a tire inspection on your 2003 Subaru Outback.

Frequently Asked Subaru Outback Tire Repair Questions

Can I drive my Subaru on a flat tire? Driving on a flat tire is not a good idea. Your Outback engine will keep running with a flat tire, but you could damage your wheel by continuing to drive on a flat.
Will a temporary sealant fix my Subaru's flat tire? Temporary sealants will solve your problem… for a little bit. If you’ve seen temporary or emergency tire sealant before (it usually comes in a can), it can be tempting to turn to this as a solution for your flat tire. Keep in mind that these fixes could buy you some time to get to Firestone Complete Auto Care for a proper repair, but they could also cause some harm in the process (for example, damage to your TPMS). Plus, using a product like this could void your tire warranty.
Can’t I just keep my spare tire on for a while? Don't rely on your spare tire for too long. Your 2003 Subaru Outback may come equipped with a compact spare tire. A spare is different than an everyday tire and is only designed to be driven a certain number of miles at lower speeds.
Who repairs Subaru Outback tires? Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care can carry out most Subaru Outback tire repairs, but the extent of the damage will determine if we are able to help.
Why do my Outback tires keep losing air? Your Outback tires might keep losing air due to a leaking valve stem, puncture or hole in the tire tread or sidewall, or damaged wheel.
Is it necessary to replace all four Subaru Outback tires at once? It's important to consider replacing your Outback tires in pairs or all four at once for safety and performance reasons, even if only two of them appear to be worn. If the remaining two tires are significantly newer, they may have different grip than the older tires, which can affect your vehicle’s handling. Always double-check your owner's manual since some vehicles require all four tires to be replaced if there's a tread difference of more than 3/32”.

2003 Subaru Outback Repair

Nothing lasts forever. Even your Subaru Outback's many parts and pieces. When something breaks, we're ready. Click on a repair below to learn more about 2003 Subaru Outback repairs.