Subaru Outback Manuals 2012 Outback Owner's Manual | Page 327

Driving tips blades. If this happens, reduce the vehicle speed. NOTE When the season requiring non-freez- ing type wiper blades is over, replace them with standard wiper blades. & Corrosion protection Refer to “Corrosion protection” F10-4. & Snow tires WARNING . When replacing original tires with winter (snow) tires, make sure you use only tires of the same size, circumference, construc- tion, brand (tread pattern), speed symbol and load index as the original tires listed on the tire placard. Using tires of other sizes and constructions may affect speedometer/odometer calibra- tion and clearance between the body and tires. It also may be dangerous and lead to loss of vehicle control. . You must install four winter tires that are of the same size, circum- ference, construction, manufac- turer, brand (tread pattern), de- gree of wear, speed symbol and load index. Mixing tires of other sizes or constructions may result in severe mechanical damage to the drive train of your vehicle and may affect ride, handling, braking and speedometer/odometer cali- bration. It also may be dangerous and lead to loss of vehicle con- trol. . Do not use a combination of radial, belted bias or bias tires since it may cause dangerous handling characteristics and lead to an accident. ! Except 2.5 L turbo models Your vehicle is equipped with “all season tires” which are designed to provide an adequate measure of traction, handling and braking performance in year-round driving. In winter, it may be possible to enhance performance through use of tires designed specifically for winter driving conditions. If you choose to install winter tires on your vehicle, be sure to use the correct tire size and type. You must install four winter tires 8-11 that are of the same size, construction, brand and load range and you should never mix radial, belted bias or bias tires since this may result in dangerous hand- ling characteristics. When you choose a tire, make sure that there is enough clearance between the tire and vehicle body. Remember to drive with care at all times regardless of the type of tires on your vehicle. ! 2.5 L turbo models Your vehicle is equipped with “summer tires” as original equipment, which are inadequate for driving on slippery roads such as on snow-covered or icy roads. Compared with winter and all-season tires, summer tires give significantly less grip on snowy and icy road surfaces. Therefore, use of winter tires is strongly recommended when driving with such road conditions. When you choose to install winter tires on your vehicle, be sure to use the correct tire size and type. You must install four winter tires that are of the same size, construc- tion, brand and load range and you should never mix radial, belted bias or bias tires since this may result in dangerous hand- ling characteristics. When you choose a tire, make sure that there is enough – CONTINUED –