How much oil does my Subaru need?
Your Subaru typically requires about 4.5 to 6 quarts of engine oil for a full change with a new filter, depending on the model and engine. Most modern four-cylinder Subarus use roughly 4.8 quarts, while larger six-cylinder engines can approach 6 quarts. Always confirm the exact amount for your specific car in the owner's manual or on the under-hood oil capacity sticker.
Oil capacity varies by model and year, so knowing your exact engine type is crucial. This article explains how to determine the precise amount for your vehicle, what ranges you can expect for common Subaru engines, and how to verify the figure before your next oil change.
Determining your Subaru's oil capacity
Oil capacity is not a one-size-fits-all figure across the Subaru lineup. It depends on the engine family, year, and whether you replace the filter during the change. Use the official specification for accuracy rather than relying on a general estimate.
Why capacity varies by engine and model
Subaru uses several engine families across generations (including 4-cylinder FA/FB and older EJ, plus the 3.6L EZ36). Each engine has a slightly different oil容量 requirement and a different amount when a new filter is added. The best practice is to consult the exact specification for your vehicle’s year and trim.
How to find the exact oil capacity for your car
Start with official sources to lock in the correct number, then use it as your baseline when you top off or perform maintenance. Below are reliable ways to locate the precise figure.
Where to look in official sources
Check the owner’s manual, the maintenance section of Subaru’s official website for your model/year, and the oil capacity label or service sheet in the glove box or engine bay. If in doubt, ask a dealership service department or a trusted mechanic to confirm before an oil change.
Common Subaru engine families and approximate capacities
The numbers below are approximate ranges and are meant to serve as a quick reference. Always verify with your specific model/year documentation, since exact capacity can vary slightly by year, trim, and oil filter type.
- 4-cylinder FA/FB family (most modern 2.0L–2.5L engines) — typically about 4.4–4.8 quarts with a filter (roughly 4.2–4.6 L).
- EJ family (older 2.0L–2.5L engines) — commonly around 4.4–4.8 quarts with a filter.
- 3.6L EZ36 V6 — generally about 5.8–6.0 quarts with a filter (roughly 5.5–5.7 L).
Note: If you replace the oil filter during a change, you’ll typically need the higher end of the range to reach the correct level on the dipstick. Always start with the exact capacity from your manual and adjust as needed after checking the dipstick.
Summary
In short, the exact oil capacity for a Subaru depends on the engine and year. Most modern four-cylinder Subarus take roughly 4.8 quarts with a filter, while the 3.6L EZ36 V6 approaches about 6 quarts. Always confirm the precise figure from your owner's manual or official Subaru documentation, and verify the level with the dipstick after topping up.
