Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
1998 Subaru Forester BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Wheel & Tire Specifications: Notes
Tire specifications are imprinted on the tire side wall. The recommended cold tire inflation pressures are listed on a label attached to the driver's door jamb.
CAUTION:
All 4 tires on vehicle must be of the same size, construction and load range. DO NOT mix tires of different design such as radial with bias or belted bias tires. Mixing tire types will adversely affect road handling and may lead to loss of vehicle control. To prevent vehicle and tire damage, DO NOT use tire chains on the T-type compact spare tire.
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.