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How often should I use a Subaru fuel additive?

Subaru recommends using a fuel additive in your vehicle's fuel tank every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first. This helps maintain the fuel system and engine performance of your Subaru.


Why Use a Subaru Fuel Additive?


Subaru fuel additives are specially formulated to clean and protect the fuel system components in Subaru vehicles. Over time, deposits can build up in the fuel injectors, fuel lines, and other parts of the fuel system, which can reduce engine performance and fuel efficiency. Using a Subaru fuel additive helps remove these deposits and keep the fuel system running smoothly.


How to Use a Subaru Fuel Additive


Using a Subaru fuel additive is a simple process:



  • Add the recommended amount of fuel additive to a full tank of gas, as specified on the product label.

  • Drive the vehicle normally for at least 30 miles to allow the additive to circulate through the fuel system.

  • Repeat this process every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first.


It's important to use a Subaru-approved fuel additive, as these are specifically designed to work with the fuel system components in Subaru vehicles.


Benefits of Using a Subaru Fuel Additive


Using a Subaru fuel additive can provide several benefits for your vehicle:



  • Improved fuel efficiency: By cleaning the fuel system, a fuel additive can help improve fuel combustion and increase your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

  • Enhanced engine performance: Removing deposits from the fuel system can help restore engine power and responsiveness.

  • Longer fuel system lifespan: Regularly using a fuel additive can help prevent premature wear and tear on fuel system components, extending their lifespan.


Following Subaru's recommended maintenance schedule and using a Subaru-approved fuel additive can help keep your vehicle running at its best for years to come.

Can you put too much fuel additive?


Too Much of a Good Thing Can Be Bad
If you're losing lubricity, don't over-treat. Adding too much of a lubricity improver can react with other various contaminants already in your fuel to cause a different fuel problem—clogged filters.



Does my Subaru really need premium gas?


If you drive a Crosstrek, Forester, Outback, Legacy or Ascent, your vehicle is designed to run on 87 octane, or regular fuel. Performance Subaru models – the WRX, WRX STI and BRZ – have a premium fuel requirement, but even with those vehicles, check your manual for information on which fuels are appropriate.



Can you put too much gas additive?


Can fuel additives damage your vehicle's engine? Yes, if you use them improperly or use them too much.



When to add Subaru Fuel Additive?


Subaru recommend the use of their Fuel Additive every 6,000km to help reduce combustion chamber deposits, therefore reducing the engines octane requirement.



How often should I fuel injection clean my Subaru?


We may recommend that you bring your model in once a year for a cleaning, but when in doubt, it's always best to speak with one of our service providers for exact information pertaining to your particular Subaru model.



Do subarus need fuel injector cleaner?


While fuel additives can offer benefits, they are not always necessary for every Subaru owner. Consider using fuel additives when: You have an older vehicle with carbon buildup or fuel system issues. You plan to store your Subaru for an extended period.



What are the cons of fuel additive?


While these additives enhance fuel performance, quality, and safety, some have potential downsides. For example, ethanol can cause material compatibility issues in older vehicles, while metal-based additives like MMT and ferrocene can increase particulate emissions and spark plug fouling.



Should I use fuel injector cleaner regularly?


There is no set answer as to whether or not fuel injectors need periodic cleaning that will apply to all cars and all situations. But using a Top Tier gasoline with the occasional bottle of fuel-injector cleaner should work to keep your injectors clean, and perhaps even to cure some mild rough-running issues.



How often should you use a Fuel Additive?


So, how often should you use them? It's recommended by manufacturers to add fuel injector cleaner to your vehicle roughly every 1500 to 3000 miles, or as often as every oil change if you're using top-tier fuel. However, this guidance isn't one-size-fits-all.



How long do Subaru injectors last?


50-100k miles
Subaru fuel injectors have been know to last much longer than 50-100k miles. There is no service interval at which the injectors "need" to be replaced as part of any maintenance schedule.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.