How to Change Kpa to Psi Subaru Crosstrek 2018

Changing Kpa to Psi on your 2018 Subaru Crosstrek is simple and ensures accurate tire pressure readings. This guide walks you through the menu settings, explains why Psi is preferred in the U.S., and offers tips for safe driving.

If you’ve recently purchased a 2018 Subaru Crosstrek or are just getting familiar with its dashboard settings, you might have noticed something a little confusing: your tire pressure is displayed in kilopascals (Kpa) instead of pounds per square inch (Psi). While Kpa is a perfectly valid metric unit, most drivers in the United States are used to seeing Psi on tire gauges, gas station air pumps, and vehicle manuals. This can make it tricky to know whether your tires are properly inflated—especially if you’re trying to follow the recommended pressure listed in your owner’s manual or door jamb sticker.

Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Many Subaru owners, especially those new to the brand or importing vehicles from regions that use metric units, face this same issue. The good news? Changing Kpa to Psi on your 2018 Subaru Crosstrek is quick, easy, and doesn’t require any tools or technical know-how. In just a few minutes, you can switch your dashboard display to show tire pressure in Psi, making it much simpler to maintain optimal tire health and driving performance.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process step by step. We’ll also explain why Psi is the preferred unit in the U.S., how tire pressure affects your driving experience, and why keeping your tires properly inflated is one of the simplest ways to improve safety, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity. Whether you’re a daily commuter, weekend adventurer, or just someone who wants to get the most out of their Crosstrek, this guide will help you stay informed and in control.

Key Takeaways

• Psi is the standard unit in the U.S.: Most tire pressure gauges and service stations use Psi, making it easier to monitor and maintain proper tire pressure.
• Access the settings menu via the steering wheel controls: Use the arrow buttons on the left side of the steering wheel to navigate to the vehicle settings.
• Change units under “Vehicle Settings” > “Unit”: Select “Pressure Unit” and switch from Kpa to Psi with a few button presses.
• Proper tire pressure improves safety and fuel efficiency: Incorrect pressure can lead to poor handling, reduced fuel economy, and increased tire wear.
• Always check tire pressure when tires are cold: For accurate readings, measure pressure before driving or after the car has been parked for at least 3 hours.
• The 2018 Crosstrek displays pressure in real time: Once set to Psi, the TPMS shows individual tire pressures clearly on the dashboard.
• Keep a manual gauge as a backup: Digital displays can occasionally glitch, so a physical gauge ensures you’re never left guessing.

Why Tire Pressure Matters in Your 2018 Subaru Crosstrek

Your tires are the only part of your vehicle that actually touch the road. That means their condition and inflation level have a huge impact on how your car handles, brakes, and responds to sudden maneuvers. The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek comes equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), which continuously checks the air pressure in each tire and alerts you if any drop below a safe threshold. But if that system is showing readings in Kpa, it can be confusing—especially when you’re trying to match those numbers to the Psi values recommended by Subaru.

Proper tire pressure ensures even tread wear, better fuel economy, and improved traction—especially important in a vehicle like the Crosstrek, which is designed for both city driving and light off-road adventures. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which forces your engine to work harder and burns more fuel. Overinflated tires, on the other hand, reduce the tire’s contact patch with the road, leading to a harsher ride and decreased grip, particularly in wet or snowy conditions.

Subaru recommends a specific tire pressure for the 2018 Crosstrek—usually around 33 Psi for normal driving conditions. This value is listed on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb and in the owner’s manual. If your dashboard is showing Kpa, that same pressure would be roughly 227 Kpa. While you could do the math every time, it’s far easier—and safer—to just change the display to Psi so you can read it at a glance.

The Risks of Incorrect Tire Pressure

Driving with incorrect tire pressure isn’t just about comfort—it can be dangerous. Underinflated tires generate excess heat due to increased flexing of the sidewalls. Over time, this can lead to tire failure, including blowouts, especially at highway speeds. In cold weather, tire pressure naturally drops (about 1 Psi for every 10°F drop in temperature), so checking and adjusting pressure becomes even more critical.

Overinflation isn’t much better. It makes your ride feel bumpy and reduces the tire’s ability to absorb shocks from potholes or rough terrain. This not only affects comfort but can also increase stopping distances and make the vehicle more prone to skidding. For a vehicle like the Crosstrek, which many owners use for outdoor activities and varying road conditions, maintaining the correct pressure is essential for both safety and performance.

How the TPMS Works in the 2018 Crosstrek

The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek uses a direct TPMS, which means each tire has a sensor that measures pressure and sends real-time data to the vehicle’s computer. This information is then displayed on the multi-information display (MID) located between the speedometer and tachometer. When a tire’s pressure drops below about 25% of the recommended level, a warning light (usually a yellow tire icon) will illuminate on the dashboard.

One of the great features of this system is that it shows the pressure for each individual tire—not just an overall warning. That means you can see if just one tire is low, which helps you identify slow leaks or punctures early. However, if the unit is set to Kpa, you might not recognize the numbers right away, especially if you’re used to seeing Psi. That’s why changing the unit to Psi is such a smart move—it brings clarity and confidence to your daily drive.

Understanding Kpa vs. Psi: What’s the Difference?

Before we dive into the steps to change the unit on your dashboard, let’s take a moment to understand what Kpa and Psi actually mean—and why one might be used over the other.

Psi stands for “pounds per square inch” and is the standard unit of pressure used in the United States. It measures how much force (in pounds) is applied over one square inch of area. Most American drivers are familiar with Psi because it’s used on tire gauges, air compressors at gas stations, and in vehicle manuals.

Kpa, or kilopascals, is a metric unit of pressure. One Kpa equals 1,000 pascals, and one pascal is defined as one newton of force per square meter. While Kpa is commonly used in countries that follow the metric system (like Canada, Europe, and Australia), it’s less intuitive for many U.S. drivers.

So why would a 2018 Subaru Crosstrek display Kpa by default? It likely comes down to manufacturing and regional settings. Subaru produces vehicles for global markets, and some models—especially those built for export or sold in metric-using regions—may come pre-set to Kpa. Even if you bought your Crosstrek in the U.S., it’s possible the previous owner imported it or the vehicle was originally configured for a different market.

Conversion Between Kpa and Psi

If you ever need to convert between the two units, here’s a simple rule of thumb:

– 1 Psi ≈ 6.895 Kpa
– To convert Psi to Kpa: multiply by 6.895
– To convert Kpa to Psi: divide by 6.895

For example, the recommended tire pressure for the 2018 Crosstrek is 33 Psi. To convert that to Kpa:
33 × 6.895 ≈ 227.5 Kpa

So if your dashboard shows 227 Kpa, that’s actually right on target—but it’s much easier to recognize “33 Psi” than “227 Kpa” when you’re quickly checking your tires.

Why Psi Is Preferred in the U.S.

Beyond familiarity, Psi is preferred in the U.S. because it aligns with the tools and infrastructure drivers use daily. When you pull up to a gas station air pump, the display will show Psi. When you buy a tire pressure gauge, it will likely have Psi markings. Even the stickers on your car door and in your manual use Psi. Using a consistent unit reduces confusion and helps prevent mistakes—like overinflating a tire because you misread the numbers.

Additionally, most automotive professionals in the U.S. are trained to think in Psi. If you take your Crosstrek in for service and the technician asks, “What’s your tire pressure?” they’ll expect a Psi answer. Having your dashboard match that standard makes communication smoother and ensures everyone is on the same page.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Change Kpa to Psi on Your 2018 Subaru Crosstrek

Now for the main event: changing your tire pressure display from Kpa to Psi. The process is straightforward and takes less than two minutes. You don’t need any special tools—just your hands and the controls on your steering wheel.

Step 1: Turn on the Ignition

Start by turning the ignition to the “ON” position. You don’t need to start the engine—just press the start button once (or turn the key to the second position) so that the dashboard lights up. This powers the multi-information display and allows you to access the settings menu.

Step 2: Locate the Steering Wheel Controls

On the left side of your steering wheel, you’ll find a set of buttons used to control the MID. These include arrow buttons (up, down, left, right), a “SET” or “OK” button, and sometimes a “DISP” (display) button. These are your navigation tools for the menu system.

Step 3: Access the Settings Menu

Press the “DISP” button repeatedly until you see the “Settings” or “Vehicle Settings” option on the MID. Alternatively, you can use the arrow buttons to scroll through the menu options until you find it. Once you see “Settings,” press the “OK” or “SET” button to enter.

Step 4: Navigate to “Unit” Settings

Inside the Settings menu, use the arrow buttons to scroll down to “Unit” or “Units of Measurement.” This section controls how various readings—like speed, temperature, and pressure—are displayed. Press “OK” to enter this submenu.

Step 5: Select “Pressure Unit”

You’ll now see options like “Speed Unit,” “Temperature Unit,” and “Pressure Unit.” Use the arrows to highlight “Pressure Unit” and press “OK.”

Step 6: Change from Kpa to Psi

You’ll now see the current setting—likely “Kpa.” Use the arrow buttons to scroll to “Psi” and press “OK” to confirm. The display will update immediately, and your tire pressure readings will now appear in Psi.

Step 7: Exit the Menu

Once you’ve made the change, press the “DISP” button or the back arrow (if available) to exit the menu. Your new setting will be saved automatically.

That’s it! Your 2018 Subaru Crosstrek will now display tire pressure in Psi, making it much easier to monitor and maintain proper inflation.

Tips for a Smooth Process

– If you can’t find the “Pressure Unit” option, double-check that you’re in the correct menu. Some models group it under “Display Settings” or “Instrument Panel.”
– If the menu seems unresponsive, try turning the ignition off and on again. Sometimes a quick reset helps.
– Make sure you’re not driving when making this change—always adjust settings while parked for safety.

When and How to Check Your Tire Pressure

Now that your Crosstrek is displaying Psi, it’s important to know when and how to check your tire pressure properly. Doing it right ensures accuracy and helps you get the most out of your TPMS.

Check When Tires Are Cold

Always check tire pressure when your tires are “cold”—meaning the vehicle hasn’t been driven for at least 3 hours, or driven less than 1 mile at low speed. As tires roll, they generate heat, which increases the air pressure inside. This can give you a falsely high reading. For the most accurate results, check your tires first thing in the morning or after the car has been parked overnight.

Use a Reliable Tire Gauge

While your Crosstrek’s TPMS is helpful, it’s a good idea to keep a handheld tire pressure gauge in your glove box. Digital gauges are more accurate than analog ones, but even a basic pencil-style gauge can do the job. Compare the reading on your gauge with what’s shown on the dashboard. They should be very close—within 1–2 Psi.

Adjust Pressure as Needed

If your tires are low, add air using a gas station air pump or a portable compressor. Most pumps have a built-in gauge, so you can monitor the pressure as you go. Add air in small increments, checking frequently to avoid overinflation. If a tire is significantly low, inspect it for punctures or leaks.

Don’t Forget the Spare

Many drivers forget about the spare tire, but it’s just as important to keep it properly inflated. A flat spare is useless in an emergency. Check it every few months and top it off if needed.

Seasonal Adjustments

Tire pressure changes with temperature. In winter, pressure drops; in summer, it rises. Check your tires more frequently during seasonal transitions. Subaru recommends checking pressure at least once a month and before long trips.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to make mistakes when managing tire pressure. Here are a few common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

Ignoring the TPMS Warning Light

If the TPMS light comes on, don’t ignore it. It could mean a tire is dangerously low or that the sensor is malfunctioning. Pull over safely and check all tires immediately. If one is visibly flat, change it or call for roadside assistance.

Overinflating for Better Fuel Economy

Some drivers inflate their tires beyond the recommended level, thinking it will reduce rolling resistance and improve gas mileage. While slightly higher pressure can help a little, overinflation reduces traction and increases wear in the center of the tread. Stick to the manufacturer’s recommendation.

Using the Wrong Pressure for Load

If you’re carrying heavy loads or towing, you may need to increase tire pressure slightly. Check your owner’s manual for “loaded” or “towing” pressure recommendations. But for normal driving, stick to the standard 33 Psi.

Assuming All Tires Are the Same

Even if your dashboard shows all tires at 33 Psi, it’s worth checking each one individually. Sensors can be slightly off, or one tire might have a slow leak. A quick manual check ensures consistency.

Conclusion

Changing Kpa to Psi on your 2018 Subaru Crosstrek is a small change that makes a big difference. It brings clarity to your dashboard, aligns with U.S. standards, and helps you maintain proper tire pressure with confidence. With just a few button presses, you can ensure that your Crosstrek is always ready for the road—whether you’re commuting to work, heading to the mountains, or just running errands around town.

Proper tire pressure isn’t just about numbers—it’s about safety, efficiency, and peace of mind. By taking a few minutes to adjust your settings and check your tires regularly, you’re investing in a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable driving experience. So go ahead, make that switch to Psi, and drive with confidence knowing your Crosstrek is performing at its best.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change the tire pressure unit while driving?

No, it’s not recommended. Always make settings changes while the vehicle is parked and the ignition is on. This ensures safety and prevents distractions while driving.

Will changing to Psi affect my TPMS accuracy?

No, changing the display unit from Kpa to Psi does not affect the accuracy of the TPMS. It only changes how the pressure is shown on the dashboard.

What if I can’t find the “Pressure Unit” option in the menu?

Make sure you’re in the correct “Vehicle Settings” or “Unit” submenu. If you still can’t find it, consult your owner’s manual or try resetting the system by turning the ignition off and on.

Is 33 Psi the correct pressure for all 2018 Crosstreks?

Yes, for most 2018 Subaru Crosstreks, the recommended tire pressure is 33 Psi for normal driving. Always check the sticker on the driver’s door jamb to confirm.

Can I switch back to Kpa if I want to?

Absolutely. Just follow the same steps and select “Kpa” instead of “Psi” in the Pressure Unit menu. You can change it back anytime.

Do I still need to check tire pressure manually if the dashboard shows Psi?

Yes. While the TPMS is helpful, it’s wise to check your tires with a manual gauge at least once a month to ensure accuracy and catch slow leaks early.