I have 2004 H6 3.0 Outback with H rated tires. I want to get a set of winter tires and steel rims to use up in Vermont. I used to own a 2000 Outback and put Michelin Arctic Alpin tires on it. I was not impressed with their abilitity in slush or heavy snow. I have been reading that an H rated tire should be replaced with an H rated snow tire. I have also read that Subaru specifies 215x60x16 snow tires. What has been your experience with Q or T rated snow tires. Have you used 225 x 60 x16 snow tires? Do they cause any rubbing problems? That size seems more available.

I have not used winter tires on my 97 OB, but I have used them on prior cars (Honda Civics) and on my wife's 99 Honda Odyssey. The size on the Odyssey is 225/60/16. I'd be very surprised if going up one notch on the width would give you a problem, but I can't say for certain. You might also find 215/65/16 tires as another alternative.

 

To me, the tread of the Alpine is more wet and ice biased. There is just not that much void area, and that is what is needed for cutting thru slush and snow. I have used Yokohama winter tires in the past and have been very pleased with them. I have a set of 4 Guardex 720's for my wife's vehicle. I think that there is new tire that has replaced this one, but not sure what it is called. The 'microspheres' that they use do keep the tread from being squirmy. (Again, assuming my info is not out of date.)

 

Just one thought for you.

 

Commuter

I know Nokian tires are good. I have heard good things about the Hakka Q's, but they appear to be ending production of that tire.

I don't know what the stock tire width is on those Outbacks, but from my experience I would suggest that if you change the width for snow tires go narrower rather than wider. This will help the tire cut through the snow and minimize floating.

 

-Heikki

Subaru recommends a 215x60x16 snow tire in place of the 225x60x16 all season tire, which is not all that available a size. I was thinking about the Dunlop Winter Sport M3, but it is not available in that size.