Will the Thule Tire Chains # TH2004205104 Fit the 2014 Subaru Outback

Updated 02/10/2014 | Published 02/08/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Konig Tire Chains - Diamond Pattern - Square Link - Self Tensioning - 1 Pair

(759)

$212.85

Glacier Cable Tire Chains - Ladder Pattern - Roller Links - Manual Tensioning - 1 Pair

(1115)

$76.49

Glacier Tire Chain Tensioners for 16-1/2" to 19" Rims - Rubber - 1 Pair

(218)

$16.60

Question:

The owners manual on the 2014 Subaru Outback Wagon is not clear on what can and cannot be used for tire chains and instead asks us to check with the device manufacturer. It does however specify that the traction device needs to be SAE class S which this Thule chain is. Would you know if this part can be used safely on the Outback 2014 ? I see that other people are using it on the 2013 Outbacks as in your website.

asked by: Sri

Expert Reply:

We have not had the chance to test Thule snow tire chains on a 2014 Subaru Outback Wagon, but according to the owners manual for the 2014 Outback Wagon, it seems that tire chains can be used on the front wheels if they are Class S rated. Subaru also notes, that if any damage were to occur from tire chain use, Subaru will not cover the damage under their warranty. It is basically a situation where you can use them, but at your own risk.

Since the owners manual recommends Class S chains, you could use the Thule CG9 Tire Chains, # TH2004205104, if you have the stock tire size 225/60-17. These chains will only stick out above the tire tread 9mm. To verify that you will not have any issues, you can turn your wheels to make sure you have at least 9 mm from the closest part of the wheel well or other component near the tire.

At this time Thule does not offer a tire chain for tire size 215/70-16. If you have this tire size, you could go with the Glacier Cable Chains, # PW1038. The Glacier cables do not have any type of tensioning device, so I also recommend picking up the Rubber Adjusters, # PW99. I have attached a link to the factory tire sized and tire chain recommendations for the 2014 Outback Wagon for you to check out.

expert reply by: John H