2002 Subaru Outback Owner's Manual - Page 423

Maintenance and service NOTE Loss of correct wheel alignment* causes the tires to wear on one side and reduces the vehicle's running stability. Contact your SUBARU dealer if you notice abnormal tire wear. * : The suspension system is designed to hold each wheel at a certain alignment (relative to the other wheels and to the road) for optimum straight-line stability and cornering performance. J Wear indicators Each tire incorporates a tread wear indicator, which becomes visible when the depth of the tread grooves decreases to 0.063 in. (1.6 mm). A tire must be replaced when the tread wear indicator appears as a solid band across the tread. OM-H0231 A) New tread B) Worn tread 1) Tread wear indicator WARNING When a tire's tread wear indicator becomes visible, the tire is worn beyond the acceptable limit and must be replaced immediately. With a tire in this condition, driving at high speeds in wet weather can cause the vehicle to hydroplane. The resulting loss of vehicle control can lead to an accident. NOTE For safety, inspect the tire tread regularly and replace the tires before their tread wear indicators become visible. - CONTINUED - 11-43