Do you have to use Subaru oil in a Subaru?
As a car owner, you may wonder whether it's necessary to use specific oil brands, such as Subaru oil, in your Subaru vehicle. This question is common among Subaru enthusiasts and owners who want to ensure their cars run smoothly and efficiently. In this article, we will explore the importance of using the right oil for your Subaru and whether sticking to Subaru-branded oil is essential.
Understanding Engine Oil Requirements
Every vehicle manufacturer has specific recommendations for engine oil types and specifications. Subaru, like many other manufacturers, provides guidelines on the type of oil that best suits its vehicles. Here are some key points to consider:
- Viscosity Ratings: Subaru typically recommends oils with specific viscosity ratings, such as 0W-20 or 5W-30, depending on the model and engine type.
- API Certification: Look for oils that meet the American Petroleum Institute (API) certification standards, which ensure the oil meets performance requirements.
- Subaru's Own Oil: Subaru offers its own brand of oil, which is formulated to meet the needs of its engines. While it's not mandatory to use Subaru oil, it is designed to provide optimal performance.
Benefits of Using Subaru Oil
While you can use other brands of oil that meet the required specifications, there are several benefits to using Subaru oil:
- Formulated for Subaru Engines: Subaru oil is specifically designed to work with the unique engineering of Subaru engines, potentially enhancing performance and longevity.
- Warranty Compliance: Using Subaru oil can help ensure compliance with warranty requirements, especially for newer models still under warranty.
- Quality Assurance: Subaru oil undergoes rigorous testing to ensure it meets the high standards set by the manufacturer, providing peace of mind for owners.
Conclusion
In summary, while it is not strictly necessary to use Subaru oil in your Subaru, doing so can offer several advantages, particularly in terms of performance and warranty compliance. If you choose to use a different brand, ensure it meets the required specifications outlined in your owner's manual. Ultimately, the goal is to keep your Subaru running smoothly and efficiently for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What oil brand is recommended for Subaru?
Subaru uses 5w-30 non-synth Valvoline; that is what I use, as well. If you're not burning any oil or having other problems, and you're mostly/all stock, that will work just fine for you, too.
Do I need to use Subaru oil in my Subaru?
We recommend refilling with Genuine Subaru Oil at every oil change because it's the ONLY oil formulated specifically for your SUBARU BOXER® engine. It's formulated with a unique blend of additives, detergents and modifiers specific for the lubrication needs of the SUBARU BOXER engine.
Does it really matter what engine oil I use?
Here's what they had to say about why engine oil is so important: “Motor oils are incredibly complex and very OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) specific today. It is impossible to select one motor oil to cover all vehicles, therefore, selection of the correct grade & specification is absolutely vital.
Does it matter what brand of oil you put in your car?
MYTH: Switching motor oil brands is harmful to my engine.
No. Switching brands is not harmful to your engine as long as you choose an oil marked with the API donut of the same level, e.g., API SN. Motor oil manufacturers must meet minimum industry standards for performance and compatibility of the API mark.
Can you change your own oil Subaru?
Although you can take your car to a mechanic for an oil change, you can do it yourself with just a little know-how. At Hiley Subaru of Fort Worth, we want to help you save money on routine maintenance, and we put together a quick guide to changing your Subaru's oil at home.
Do you need to use OEM oil?
As long as the lubricant you want to use meets the minimum specifications set by the manufacturer, an OEM cannot deny your warranty claim. In other words, you are free to use your brand of choice. This is true for all lubricants ranging from engine oil and hydraulic fluid to grease.
What is the OEM Subaru oil?
Synthetic 0W-20 is uniquely formulated to handle the low-friction design of Subaru non-turbocharged engines. Synthetic 5W-30 motor oil is required for 2011 and newer turbo-charged engines, and is recommended for prior year models.
Why do Subarus use so much oil?
Consumer Reports on Subaru Oil Consumption Issues
As a result, the new engine designs suffered restricted oil durability. Some consumer posts suggested that the piston ring design was the source of the problem. As a result, oil bypasses the piston and results in premature combustion.
Can I put 5w30 in my Subaru?
5W-30 synthetic motor oil is required for 2011 and newer turbo-charged Subaru vehicles.”
What happens if you put a different brand of oil in your car?
WHAT ABOUT MIXING ENGINE OIL BRANDS? Yes. It won't harm your engine to mix, for example, Quaker State® motor oil with Pennzoil, as long as the oil you use is the weight (or viscosity) recommended in your vehicle owner's manual.
