Do Subarus take 87 gas?

Yes, most Subaru models are designed to run on regular 87 octane gasoline. However, there are some exceptions, and the recommended fuel type can vary depending on the specific Subaru model and engine.

Subaru Fuel Recommendations

Subaru generally recommends using regular 87 octane gasoline in their vehicles. This includes popular models like the Outback, Ascent, Impreza, and Forester. The company states that these engines are designed to operate efficiently on regular unleaded fuel.

However, there are a few Subaru models that have higher-performance engines that may require premium 91 octane or higher fuel. These include:

• Subaru WRX and WRX STI models


• Subaru BRZ sports car


• Certain turbocharged Subaru models, like the Ascent Onyx Edition

For these performance-oriented Subaru vehicles, the manufacturer recommends using premium 91 octane or higher gasoline to prevent engine knocking and ensure optimal performance.

Checking Your Subaru's Fuel Requirements

To determine the recommended fuel type for your specific Subaru model, you should check the owner's manual or the fuel information label inside the driver's side door jamb. This will provide the manufacturer's guidance on the appropriate octane rating for your vehicle.

Using the recommended fuel type is important for maintaining your Subaru's engine health and performance. While you can use a higher octane fuel than what's recommended, it's generally not necessary and won't provide any additional benefits unless your Subaru has a high-performance engine.

What type of gas do subarus use?

Most Subaru models run on regular unleaded 87-octane gas, including models like the Crosstrek, Forester, and Outback. However, performance models such as the WRX, STI, and BRZ require premium 91-octane or higher fuel due to their turbocharged and higher-compression engines. Always check your owner's manual for the specific recommendation for your vehicle. Subaru also recommends using TOP TIER certified gasoline to keep the engine clean.
 
Gasoline requirements by Subaru model

• Regular gasoline (87 octane): Most non-turbo models are designed to run on regular fuel, and using higher-octane gas will not provide any benefits. 
  • Crosstrek 
  • Forester 
  • Outback 
  • Legacy 
  • Ascent 
• Premium gasoline (91 octane or higher): Performance models require premium fuel to avoid engine knock and potential damage. 
  • WRX 
  • STI 
  • BRZ 

Important considerations

• Check your owner's manual: This is the most reliable source for your specific vehicle's fuel requirements. 
• Use TOP TIER gasoline: This is recommended for all Subaru models to help keep fuel injectors and intake valves clean and minimize carbon buildup. 
• High-altitude driving: In high-altitude areas where 85-octane gas is common, Subaru recommends sticking with 87-octane to ensure consistent performance. However, for high-performance models, premium is still required regardless of altitude. 

Can I put 87 in my Subaru?

Subaru engines are compatible with regular 87-octane gasoline for most models. However, performance models such as the WRX STI and BRZ require premium gas to maintain peak performance.

Do subarus run better on premium gas?

Regular gasoline has an octane level of 87 or so, while premium gasoline has an octane level of 90 or above. This can be a huge advantage for luxury and performance cars specifically, like the Subaru WRX and BRZ.

What happens if you use 87 instead of 93?

If a car requires 93 octane and you use 87, the engine's knock sensors will likely compensate by adjusting the engine's timing, but you may experience reduced performance, decreased fuel efficiency, and potentially hear engine knocking or pinging, especially under heavy load. If you don't drive aggressively, the engine will probably be fine, but if you repeatedly use a lower octane than required, the resulting engine knocking could cause damage over time. 
What can happen

• Reduced performance: The car may feel less powerful or "peppy". 
• Decreased fuel economy: Your gas mileage could get worse. 
• Engine knocking or pinging: This is a rattling noise that can occur when the fuel pre-ignites, which is damaging in the long run. 
• Engine damage: Continued knocking can cause serious damage to engine components, and using the wrong fuel may even void your warranty. 

What to do

• Avoid aggressive driving: Drive gently and avoid heavy acceleration, especially uphill. 
• Fill up with the correct fuel: The next time you need gas, fill the tank with 93 octane to dilute the 87 octane fuel. 
• Consult your owner's manual: Check your car's manual or the sticker by the fuel cap to confirm the manufacturer's recommendation. Some modern cars can handle 87 octane, especially if premium is only recommended, not required.