How much oil for a Subaru Crosstrek?
The Crosstrek’s oil capacity varies by engine size and model year. For the common 2.0-liter engine, plan on about 4.2 quarts (roughly 4.0 liters) with a new filter; if your Crosstrek has the 2.5-liter engine, expect around 4.8 quarts (about 4.6 liters). Always confirm with the owner’s manual or under-hood sticker and use the recommended oil grade.
In this guide, we break down the capacities by engine size, note the difference between oil with and without a new filter, and offer quick reminders about oil type and change intervals to help you stay on schedule.
Oil capacity by engine size
These figures reflect typical capacities used during standard oil changes (including a new filter). If you skip the filter, the capacity is slightly lower. Always verify for your exact year and model, as there can be small variations.
2.0-liter engine Crosstrek
Oil capacity: approximately 4.2 quarts (4.0 liters) with a new filter; about 4.0 quarts without the filter. Use synthetic 0W-20 oil or the grade specified in your manual.
Conclusion for 2.0L engines: Most Crosstreks in daily use fall into this category, making a 4.2-quart fill a common reference point for an oil change with filter.
2.5-liter engine Crosstrek
Oil capacity: roughly 4.8 quarts (about 4.6 liters) with a new filter; slightly less without the filter. The recommended oil grade remains aligned with the manual’s specification, typically a full-synthetic 0W-20 in recent model years.
Conclusion for 2.5L engines: If your Crosstrek isn’t the 2.0L version, anticipate a bit more oil per change—around 4.8 quarts with the filter—as you plan your service.
Oil type and change interval
Choosing the right oil and sticking to a regular change schedule are as important as knowing the capacity. Subarus commonly specify a 0W-20 synthetic oil for many Crosstrek engines, but always confirm the exact grade and interval in your owner’s manual.
Change intervals vary by driving conditions and oil type. The guidelines below reflect typical recommendations, but your vehicle may differ based on year and usage.
- Normal driving: about every 7,500 miles (12,000 km).
- Severe conditions (extensive short trips, dusty or hot environments, towing, or heavy city driving): roughly every 3,750–5,000 miles (6,000–8,000 km).
Before performing routine maintenance, consider these standard intervals for most Crosstreks with synthetic oil.
Conclusion: Following the manufacturer’s recommended interval helps protect the engine, and keeping to 0W-20 synthetic oil is commonly advised for Crosstreks across many model years.
Tips for checking and topping up oil
If you’re checking oil between changes or topping up, follow these quick steps to stay safe and accurate.
- Warm up the engine briefly, then park on level ground and turn off the engine.
- Wait a few minutes for the oil to settle, then pull the dipstick and wipe it clean.
- Reinsert the dipstick fully, pull it again, and check the oil level against the marked range.
- If the level is low, add small amounts of the recommended oil, recheck after each addition to avoid overfilling.
- Replace the filler cap securely and note any leaks or signs of low oil pressure.
Conclusion: Regularly checking the dipstick and using the correct oil type helps prevent oil-starved engine issues and ensures your Crosstrek runs smoothly between changes.
Summary
In summary, plan for about 4.2 quarts of oil with a filter for most 2.0-liter Crosstrek engines, and about 4.8 quarts for models with the 2.5-liter engine. Use the recommended synthetic oil (typically 0W-20) and follow the maintenance intervals in your manual—7,500 miles under normal driving, or more frequent service under severe conditions. Always verify exact capacities for your year and engine configuration, and consult the owner’s manual or dealer if you’re unsure.
How much oil does a 2016 Subaru Crosstrek take?
A 2016 Subaru Crosstrek takes 5.1 quarts of oil when you replace the filter. It is crucial to use the correct type of oil, which is SAE 0W-20 full synthetic, and check the dipstick after filling to ensure the oil level is correct.
Oil change details
- Capacity: 5.1 quarts (with filter)
- Recommended oil type: SAE 0W-20 full synthetic
- Alternative oil: If 0W-20 synthetic is not available, you can use 5W-30 or 5W-40 conventional oil, but you must switch to 0W-20 synthetic at the next oil change.
- Procedure: After filling with the correct amount, run the engine briefly to circulate the oil, then check the dipstick to confirm the level is proper.
How many quarts of oil for a Subaru Crosstrek?
A Subaru Crosstrek typically needs between 4.4 and 4.7 quarts of oil, depending on the engine size and model year, with most newer models requiring around 4.6 or 4.7 quarts of 0W-20 synthetic oil. For a more precise amount, check the owner's manual, and always verify the oil level with the dipstick after adding the oil.
Approximate oil capacity by engine and year
- 2.0L Boxer 4-Cyl (2018-2025): ~4.7 quarts (4.4L)
- 2.5L Boxer 4-Cyl (2021-2025): ~4.4 quarts (4.2L)
- 2023 (2.0L): 4.6 quarts
- 2018: 4.6 quarts (using 0W20) or 5.1 quarts
Important considerations
- Check the dipstick: The exact amount can vary slightly, so it is crucial to check the dipstick and add oil until it reaches the "full" mark after refilling.
- Use the correct oil: Subaru recommends 0W-20 synthetic oil for most recent models.
- Replace the filter: The capacity figures are usually based on changing the oil filter at the same time.
- Warm up the engine: Partially warming the engine before draining the oil can help the old oil drain more completely.
How much oil does a 2014 Subaru Crosstrek take?
The 2014 Subaru Crosstrek with the 2.0L engine has an oil capacity of 5.1 quarts (with filter) and requires 0W-20 synthetic oil. It is important to use synthetic oil for this engine and to check the oil level after refilling.
- Oil Capacity: 5.1 quarts with filter change
- Oil Type: 0W-20 full synthetic oil
- Drain Plug Torque: 31 ft-lbs
- Important Note: Always install a new washer on the drain bolt.
What kind of oil does a 2.5 L Subaru take?
0W-20 synthetic oil Oil
2.5L 4-cylinder engine (FB25):
Recommended oil: 0W-20 synthetic oil. Oil capacity: Approximately 4.4 quarts (with filter)
