Can I put 5W30 instead of 0W20 in a Subaru?
The short answer is no, you should not put 5W30 oil in a Subaru that requires 0W20 oil. Using the wrong oil viscosity can potentially cause engine damage and negatively impact the vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency. Let's dive into the details on why it's important to use the recommended oil for your Subaru.
Understanding Oil Viscosity Ratings
The oil viscosity rating, such as 0W20 or 5W30, refers to the oil's thickness or resistance to flow. The first number (0 or 5) indicates the oil's viscosity when the engine is cold, and the second number (20 or 30) indicates the viscosity when the engine is hot and running. Using the wrong viscosity can lead to issues like increased wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and even engine damage.
Why 0W20 is Recommended for Subarus
Subaru engines are designed to work best with 0W20 oil. This low-viscosity oil helps improve fuel economy and reduces engine drag, which is important for Subaru's efficient Boxer engines. Putting 5W30 oil in a Subaru that requires 0W20 can result in:
- Increased engine wear due to the thicker oil not flowing as easily through tight engine components
- Reduced fuel efficiency as the thicker oil creates more resistance and drag in the engine
- Potential damage to sensitive engine parts like the timing chain and oil pump
Subaru strongly recommends using the 0W20 oil specified in your owner's manual to ensure optimal engine performance and longevity.
When Can You Use a Different Oil?
In some cases, you may be able to use a slightly different oil viscosity, but it's important to consult your Subaru's owner's manual first. For example, some Subaru models may allow the use of 5W30 oil in certain climates or driving conditions. However, it's always best to use the exact oil type and viscosity recommended by Subaru to avoid any potential issues.
Will 5W-20 hurt a 0W-20 engine?
If SAE 0W-20 synthetic oil is not available, SAE 5W-20 conventional oil may be used. However, it must be replaced with SAE 0W-20 synthetic oil at the next oil change.
Is it OK to replace 0W-20 with 5W-20 motor oil?
If SAE 0W-20 synthetic oil is not available, SAE 5W-20 conventional oil may be used.
Can I use 5W-30 instead of 0W-20 Subaru?
Synthetic oil-specifically 0W-20-is highly recommended for optimal engine performance and protection. If synthetic oil isn't available at the time of an oil change, 5W-30 conventional oil may be used instead. However, it should be replaced with synthetic oil at the next change.
What happens if I put 5W-30 instead of 0W-20?
No car “requires” 0W-20. It's a recommendation, not a requirement. 5w30 will be thicker (more viscous). It will offer better projection to bearings and some other wear surfaces at the expense of slightly worse cooling of some other parts and increase oil pressure delay at extremely cold temperatures.
What happens if you put the wrong oil in a Subaru?
Although you can operate the vehicle even with the inappropriate engine oil, if you continue using it, you risk damaging the engine's moving parts and components, reducing its reliability and decreasing its lifespan.
Can I put 5W-30 in my Subaru Outback?
Subaru Outback (6-Cylinder) 2002 to 2019: 5W-30 Conventional Oil. Subaru Outback (6-Cylinder) 2020 to 2023: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil. Subaru Outback XT (Turbo) 2020 to 2023: 0W-20 Synthetic Oil.
Is 5W-30 good for Subaru?
5w-30 is recommended for all Subaru vehicles according to the Subaru.jp website.
What is the difference between 0w20 and 5W30 oil?
5W-30 oil is slightly thicker than 0W-20 oil at high temperatures, providing potentially better protection under extreme operating conditions, such as heavy loads or high temperatures. Fuel Economy: Due to its lower viscosity, 0W-20 oil generally contributes to better fuel economy compared to 5W-30 oil.
What is the best oil for a Subaru engine?
For engines that aren't turbo-charged, 0W-20 synthetic oil is your best Subaru Outback oil type. For older Subaru Outback models, the engine will thrive with a higher viscosity, so if your Outback has seen some miles and years, you can choose 5W-30 synthetic oil.
Can I replace 5W30 with 0W 30?
Depending on the recommendations from your owner's manual, the 0W-30 can be used instead of other grades. Again, this will be dictated by the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) as they built the engine with very precise specifications.
