Can I drive my Subaru on a flat tire?

Driving on a flat or underinflated tire can put extra stress on your wheels and alignment. While it’s sometimes necessary to drive a short distance on a flat tire to get to a safe place, don’t take any other trips in your Outback until you can have the flat tire repaired or replaced.

Can I use an emergency/temporary sealant to 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.

What’s the harm in using my spare tire for a while?

Don't rely on your spare tire for too long. Your 2004 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.

Where can I get my Subaru Outback tires repaired?

Your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care is equipped to handle most Subaru Outback tire repairs, but it depends on how severe the damage is.

What is causing the tires on my Outback to 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.

Do I have to replace all four Subaru Outback tires at the same time?

Replacing all four tires on your Outback is not always necessary. However, it is recommended that you replace tires in pairs or all four tires at the same time for safety and performance reasons. If you have two new tires and two worn tires, the worn tires may not grip the road as well as the new tires, which could cause your car to slide or lose control. Always refer to your vehicle owner’s manual since some vehicles require you to replace all four tires if there is a tread difference greater than 3/32”.

2004 Subaru Outback Tire Repair Services

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Repairing Your Subaru Outback Tire

Urban areas are booming. Roads are expanding. Everywhere you look, it seems construction is in progress! That means more tire-damaging road debris and flat tires. If your 2004 Subaru Outback is in need of a tire inspection or possible flat tire repair, Firestone Complete Auto Care has your back. There’s a chance your tire could be plugged and patched (rather than replaced). Our technicians can inspect your tire and let you know if it is safe to repair. To start, we’ll consider the location of tire damage, the type of issue, the size and scope of the damage, and the amount of wear on your tires.

If your 2004 Subaru Outback tire puncture can be repaired, the repair process is actually fairly simple: (1) Take the tire off the wheel for easy inspection, (2) use a filler to close up the puncture (this is to keep moisture from getting in), and (3) seal the inner liner with a repair unit to prevent air loss.

Subaru Outback Tire Replacement

Unfortunately, some 2004 Subaru Outback tire damage can’t be effectively repaired. 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. Other tire damage that can't be safely repaired includes a puncture in the tire that is ¼ inch or greater in diameter; a puncture that lies outside the tire tread area; a tire with multiple punctures that are less than 16 inches apart; and a tire with tread separation or significant cuts.

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 vehicles with AWD, manufacturers recommend replacing all four tires simultaneously. This is because the AWD system can only function optimally when all tires are uniform. But, if you’ve recently replaced your tires and they don’t have significant wear, a new set might not be needed. If you can replace your damaged tire with the same type, brand, and size as the others, you may be able to save costs and only purchase one replacement. Need help? A tire technician can walk you through the options and help you determine what’s best for your vehicle’s performance and longevity.

Do I Need a Tire Inspection for My Subaru Outback?

A flat tire is a surefire sign of tire damage, but other indicators of tire issues aren’t so easy to spot. Inconspicuous issues like bulging sidewalls, exhaust noise, leaks, or bent rims may indicate issues that need immediate attention. Stay ahead of potentially dangerous tire issues. Bring your 2004 Subaru Outback in for a tire inspection.

Frequently Asked Subaru Outback Tire Repair Questions

Can I drive my Subaru on a flat tire? Driving on a flat or underinflated tire can put extra stress on your wheels and alignment. While it’s sometimes necessary to drive a short distance on a flat tire to get to a safe place, don’t take any other trips in your Outback until you can have the flat tire repaired or replaced.
Can I use an emergency/temporary sealant to 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.
What’s the harm in using my spare tire for a while? Don't rely on your spare tire for too long. Your 2004 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.
Where can I get my Subaru Outback tires repaired? Your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care is equipped to handle most Subaru Outback tire repairs, but it depends on how severe the damage is.
What is causing the tires on my Outback to 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.
Do I have to replace all four Subaru Outback tires at the same time? Replacing all four tires on your Outback is not always necessary. However, it is recommended that you replace tires in pairs or all four tires at the same time for safety and performance reasons. If you have two new tires and two worn tires, the worn tires may not grip the road as well as the new tires, which could cause your car to slide or lose control. Always refer to your vehicle owner’s manual since some vehicles require you to replace all four tires if there is a tread difference greater than 3/32”.

2004 Subaru Outback Repair

Your Subaru Outback runs best when it’s well cared for. Keep your car running newer, longer with repairs from Firestone Complete Auto Care. Learn more about 2004 Subaru Outback repairs below.