Can you put regular oil in a Subaru?
Regular (conventional) oil is not recommended for most Subaru models; synthetic oil is typically specified for lubrication, performance, and warranty considerations.
Subarus built in the last decade generally require or strongly prefer synthetic oil (often 0W-20, though some climates or engines may use 5W-30). Always check your owner’s manual or the dealership for your exact year and model to confirm the right oil type and viscosity. If you’re in a pinch and only have conventional oil, know that you should plan to switch back to the recommended synthetic at your next oil change.
What Subaru owners should know about oil type
The following guidelines cover common recommendations across recent Subaru models. Always verify your exact year/model in the owner’s manual.
- Most modern Subarus require synthetic motor oil, with many specifying 0W-20 as the standard viscosity in global markets.
- Some engines (especially turbocharged or performance variants) may call for a slightly different synthetic viscosity, such as 5W-30, depending on climate and model year.
- Conventional (regular) oil is generally not listed as the preferred option for newer Subarus, and using it when synthetic is specified can affect lubrication quality and warranty coverage.
- Avoid mixing conventional and synthetic oils. If you must improvise with a non-listed option, try to use a synthetic that matches the required viscosity and meets the same API/ILSAC specifications, and plan a return to the recommended oil at the next change.
In short, follow the oil specification in your owner’s manual. Using the wrong type or viscosity can reduce protection, affect fuel economy, and complicate warranty claims.
Emergency scenarios and how to handle them
If you find yourself with only conventional oil on hand, consider these guidelines before continuing to drive your Subaru.
- Limit use to a short interval and plan to complete a proper oil change with the recommended synthetic as soon as possible.
- Do not exceed the distance or time intervals listed in your manual for the oil in use; driving beyond those limits increases wear risk.
- When you can, switch back to the recommended synthetic at the next service appointment and report the oil type you used to the technician.
- Check for any warranty implications with your dealer if you suspect oil-related issues; keep receipts and documentation of the oil you used.
Ultimately, the safest approach is to run the oil your Subaru is designed for. Conventional oil may be permissible in an emergency for a short period if the manual allows it, but plan a prompt return to synthetic oil at the next opportunity.
What to look for when selecting oil
Beyond conventional vs. synthetic, pay attention to the oil’s specifications and viscosity as noted in your owner’s manual. Look for API and ILSAC ratings that meet Subaru’s requirements, and confirm the viscosity (for example, 0W-20 or 5W-30) matches what the manual calls for in your climate and engine type.
For example, many recent Subaru models specify 0W-20 full synthetic oil for best protection during cold starts and overall engine longevity. If you operate in extreme temperatures or drive a turbocharged engine, your manual may list a different recommendation.
Bottom line and practical steps
Always use the oil type and viscosity specified by Subaru for your exact model and year. If you’re unsure, contact a Subaru dealer or consult the owner’s manual. In an emergency, conventional oil can be a temporary stopgap, but you should revert to the recommended synthetic at the next opportunity to protect your engine and preserve warranty coverage.
Summary
Subaru vehicles, especially newer models, are designed to run on synthetic motor oil with specific viscosity requirements. While conventional oil might be used temporarily in a pinch if permitted by the manual, it is not the preferred choice and may affect lubrication quality and warranty coverage. Always verify the correct oil type and viscosity for your model, and plan to return to the recommended synthetic oil at your next oil change to ensure optimal engine protection and performance.
