2020 Subaru WRX Losing Traction in Winter? Here's Why

How to Fix Winter Tire Issues on Your 2020 Subaru WRX

Winter driving in your 2020 Subaru WRX can be a blast, but only if you're properly equipped. Many owners find that optimizing their tire setup is crucial for handling snowy and icy conditions. As one owner shared: "Seen everyone talking about blizzards this and winter tires that. Ive lived in the Midwest my whole life where it snows big just about every year throughout the winter" (DueMolasses9571). This guide will help you understand common winter tire-related issues with your 2020 Subaru WRX, diagnose the cause, and find the right solution to get the most out of your vehicle during the winter months.

Symptoms

When winter hits, improper tire selection or maintenance can manifest in several ways in your 2020 Subaru WRX. One of the most common symptoms is reduced traction. You might experience difficulty accelerating from a stop, especially on inclines. The vehicle might also feel unstable when cornering, leading to a sense of unease and reduced confidence.

Another frequent symptom is difficulty braking effectively. In icy or snowy conditions, stopping distances can increase dramatically if your tires aren't providing adequate grip. This can lead to near misses or even accidents, particularly if you're caught off guard by sudden stops or unexpected obstacles.

Loss of control is another symptom related to tires. The rear end of your car might feel loose, especially when accelerating or turning. This can be particularly noticeable when exiting corners or making quick lane changes. As one owner reported: "Yup, I kicked the rear end out today with my winters on, in first gear at only 2k rpm taking a simple left turn from a stop. Was exiting a gas station, into a two lane road" (Snoo66298).

Finally, be alert for a general lack of confidence in winter driving conditions. If you find yourself constantly needing to be extra careful and leaving excessive following distance, it might be a sign that your tires aren't performing as well as they should. This is especially true if you're comparing your experience to that of other drivers or previous winter seasons.

Most Likely Cause

The primary cause of winter tire-related problems in your 2020 Subaru WRX often boils down to tire selection and condition. Using summer performance tires or all-season tires that are not specifically designed for winter conditions significantly reduces grip in snow and ice. The rubber compounds in summer tires harden in cold temperatures, diminishing their ability to conform to the road surface.

Another cause is the condition of your winter tires themselves. Over time, the tread depth on winter tires wears down, reducing their ability to effectively grip snow and ice. Even if the tires still appear to have some tread, the specialized sipes (small slits in the tread blocks) that provide crucial grip can wear away, rendering the tires less effective. It's crucial to check the tread depth and overall condition of your winter tires each season.

Incorrect tire pressure can also contribute to handling issues in winter. As temperatures drop, tire pressure decreases, which can lead to reduced fuel economy, uneven tire wear, and compromised handling. Be sure to check your tire pressure regularly and adjust it as needed to maintain the recommended levels.

Furthermore, problems can arise if wheels are installed improperly. Damaged wheel studs can lead to unsafe driving conditions and vibration. "Come winter I find that the shop that fixed the 2... Crossthreaded 3 more!!!!!" (awoodby).

How to Diagnose

Diagnosing winter tire-related issues involves careful observation and inspection. Start by visually inspecting your tires. Check for adequate tread depth. Winter tires typically have wear bars that indicate when the tread has worn down to an unsafe level. Also, examine the tires for any signs of damage, such as cuts, bulges, or uneven wear.

Next, check the tire pressure. Use a reliable tire pressure gauge to measure the pressure in each tire and compare it to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside your driver's side door jamb or in your owner's manual. Adjust the pressure as needed.

Take your 2020 Subaru WRX for a test drive in a safe, controlled environment (like an empty parking lot after a snowfall) to assess the tires' performance. Pay attention to how the vehicle handles during acceleration, braking, and cornering. Note any signs of slipping, sliding, or instability.

If you suspect that the tires are the source of the problem, consider swapping them out for a set of known good winter tires. If the handling issues disappear, it's a strong indication that your original tires were the culprit. You can also have your tires inspected by a professional tire shop to assess their condition and performance.

Step-by-Step Fix

If you've determined that your tires are the source of the problem, here's a step-by-step guide to fixing it:

1. Choose the Right Winter Tires: Research and select winter tires that are specifically designed for your 2020 Subaru WRX and the type of winter conditions you typically encounter. Look for tires with the three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) symbol, which indicates that they meet industry standards for severe snow performance. Some owners have found success with specific brands. As one owner put it: "I was just drifting in my Blizzaks earlier. Big difference is how much throttle I have to give, and how controllable the slide is compared to my old cheap Nexen winters. Blizzaks FTW" (King-Conn).

2. Purchase New Tires: Buy a complete set of four new winter tires from a reputable tire retailer or online store. Ensure that the tires are the correct size and load rating for your vehicle.

   • Verify the tire size listed in your owner's manual or on the tire placard located on the driver's side doorjamb.
   • Consider purchasing a set of dedicated winter wheels to make tire changes easier in the future.

3. Mount and Balance the Tires: Have the new tires professionally mounted and balanced on your wheels. This will ensure proper fitment and prevent vibrations.

   • If you purchased a set of dedicated winter wheels, the tires can be mounted directly onto the new wheels.
   • If you're using your existing wheels, have the old tires removed and the new winter tires installed.

4. Install the Wheels: Install the wheels on your 2020 Subaru WRX, tightening the lug nuts to the specified torque.

   • Use a torque wrench to ensure that the lug nuts are properly tightened. Over-tightening can damage the wheel studs or warp the rotors, while under-tightening can cause the wheels to come loose.
   • Follow the lug nut tightening pattern specified in your owner's manual. Typically, this involves tightening the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure distribution.
   • One owner discovered wheel studs had been cross-threaded by a shop during tire changes: "Hell, i had 2 on my car, being lazy i took it to the corner shop to do and swap my summer wheels on. Come winter I find that the shop that fixed the 2..." (awoodby).

5. Check Tire Pressure: Inflate the tires to the recommended pressure listed on the tire placard or in your owner's manual.

   • Use a reliable tire pressure gauge to ensure accurate readings.
   • Adjust the tire pressure as needed to compensate for temperature changes.

6. Test Drive: Take your 2020 Subaru WRX for a test drive in a safe location to evaluate the new tires' performance.

   • Pay attention to how the vehicle handles during acceleration, braking, and cornering.
   • Check for any signs of vibrations or unusual noises.

7. Re-Torque Lug Nuts: After driving approximately 50-100 miles, re-torque the lug nuts to ensure that they are still properly tightened.

Parts and Tools Needed

• Winter Tires: A set of four winter tires that meet the specifications for your 2020 Subaru WRX. Consult your owner's manual or a tire professional for the correct size and load rating.
• Wheels (Optional): A set of dedicated winter wheels can make tire changes easier.
• Torque Wrench: A torque wrench is essential for properly tightening lug nuts.
• Tire Pressure Gauge: A reliable tire pressure gauge is needed to check and adjust tire pressure.
• Jack and Lug Wrench: These tools are necessary for removing and installing wheels.
• Wheel Chocks: Wheel chocks are used to secure the vehicle while it's being jacked up.
• Gloves: Gloves will protect your hands from dirt and grime.
• Safety Glasses: Safety glasses will protect your eyes from debris.

Real Owner Costs

The cost of addressing winter tire-related issues can vary depending on the severity of the problem and whether you choose to DIY or seek professional help.

DIY Costs:

• New Winter Tires: A set of four new winter tires can range from $600 to $1200, depending on the brand, size, and features.
• Dedicated Winter Wheels: A set of four new steel or alloy wheels can cost $400 to $800.
• Torque Wrench: A decent torque wrench can be purchased for $50 to $100.
• Tire Pressure Gauge: A reliable tire pressure gauge can be bought for $10 to $20.

Professional Costs:

• Tire Mounting and Balancing: Professional tire mounting and balancing typically costs $20 to $40 per tire, or $80 to $160 for a set of four.
• Wheel Installation: Installing wheels can cost $20 to $40 per wheel, or $80 to $160 for a set of four.

Example 1:

An owner who purchased a set of new winter tires and had them professionally mounted and balanced might spend:

• Winter Tires: $800
• Mounting and Balancing: $120
• Total: $920

Example 2:

An owner who purchased a set of new winter tires, dedicated winter wheels, and had the tires mounted and balanced on the new wheels might spend:

• Winter Tires: $800
• Winter Wheels: $600
• Mounting and Balancing: $120
• Total: $1520

Prevention

Preventing winter tire-related issues starts with proper tire selection and maintenance. Always choose winter tires that are specifically designed for your 2020 Subaru WRX and the type of winter conditions you typically encounter. Check the tread depth and tire pressure regularly, and rotate your tires as recommended to promote even wear.

Store your winter tires properly during the off-season. Clean them thoroughly, remove any debris, and store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help to prolong their lifespan and prevent premature wear.

Consider using a tire storage rack or stacking the tires horizontally to prevent them from deforming. It's also a good idea to cover the tires with a breathable tarp to protect them from dust and dirt.

What Owners Say

Real experiences from SUBARU owners:

Success Stories

"Hell, i had 2 on my car, being lazy i took it to the corner shop to do and swap my summer wheels on. Come winter I find that the shop that fixed the 2..." — awoodby (source)

"Come winter I find that the shop that fixed the 2... Crossthreaded 3 more!!!!!" — awoodby (source)

Owner Experiences

"Ive lived in the Midwest my whole life where it snows big just about every year throughout the winter. Ive got some year or so old general gmax A/S and it drove great!" — DueMolasses9571 (source)

"Seen everyone talking about blizzards this and winter tires that. Ive lived in the Midwest my whole life where it snows big just about every year throughout the winter." — DueMolasses9571 (source)

"I’m going from a full summer / winter setup to my first winter with DWS06 plus’s only. Looking forward to seeing how capable they are in the winters, but I’ve heard nothing but good things, and winters are wetter than they are snowier typically for me." — sapfromtrees (source)

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to fix tire issues? A: Changing tires usually takes 1-2 hours if you do it yourself, and 30-60 minutes at a shop. The actual replacement is quick; the biggest time factor is typically waiting at the shop if you're not doing the work yourself.

Q: Can I drive with bad winter tires? A: Driving with worn or damaged winter tires is not recommended. Reduced traction can significantly increase your risk of accidents, especially in snowy or icy conditions. It's best to replace your tires as soon as you notice signs of wear or damage.

Q: Is this a common issue on the 2020 Subaru WRX? A: Winter tire-related issues are common on all vehicles, including the 2020 Subaru WRX. The performance of any tire diminishes with wear, and summer tires are especially bad in winter conditions. The WRX, with its sporty character, may encourage more aggressive driving that exacerbates wear.

Q: DIY vs mechanic – what's recommended? A: Changing tires is a fairly straightforward DIY job if you have the right tools and experience. However, if you're not comfortable working on your car, or if you don't have the necessary tools, it's best to have a professional do it. Improperly installed wheels can be dangerous.