Is 5W-30 good for Subaru?
When it comes to maintaining your Subaru, choosing the right engine oil is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and longevity. As an experienced auto service provider, I often get asked whether 5W-30 oil is suitable for Subaru vehicles. Let’s dive into the details to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding 5W-30 Oil
5W-30 is a multi-grade engine oil that performs well in a wide range of temperatures. The "5W" indicates its viscosity in cold temperatures, ensuring easy engine starts and proper lubrication during winter. The "30" represents its viscosity at higher operating temperatures, providing reliable protection when the engine is running hot.
Why 5W-30 is Recommended for Many Subaru Models
Subaru vehicles, especially those with boxer engines, are designed to operate efficiently with specific oil types. Here’s why 5W-30 is often a good choice:
- Manufacturer Recommendation: Many Subaru models, particularly older ones, list 5W-30 as the preferred oil in their owner’s manuals. Always check your specific model’s manual for confirmation.
- Temperature Versatility: 5W-30 performs well in both cold and warm climates, making it suitable for year-round use in most regions.
- Engine Protection: The oil’s viscosity ensures proper lubrication, reducing wear and tear on engine components, especially in Subaru’s horizontally opposed engines.
When to Consider Other Oil Types
While 5W-30 is a great option for many Subaru models, there are instances where other oil types might be more appropriate:
- Newer Subaru Models: Some newer Subaru vehicles, particularly those with turbocharged engines, may require synthetic oils like 0W-20 for better fuel efficiency and engine performance.
- Extreme Climates: If you live in an area with extremely cold winters or hot summers, you might need an oil with a different viscosity grade to match the conditions.
- High Mileage Engines: For older Subarus with high mileage, a slightly thicker oil like 10W-30 might be recommended to address potential oil consumption issues.
Final Thoughts
In summary, 5W-30 is a reliable and commonly recommended oil for many Subaru models, particularly older ones. However, always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or speak with a trusted mechanic to ensure you’re using the best oil for your specific Subaru. At Kevin’s Autos, we’re here to help with all your car maintenance needs, so don’t hesitate to reach out for expert advice!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best oil to run in a Subaru?
Subaru recommends 5W-30 for all temperature ranges, so unless he is running it at less than -20F or more than 110F, I would recommend he stick with Subaru's recommendations. 5W-30 offers great protection at all temps, and he already says that he has some issues on cold mornings. Why risk it? Stick with the manual.
What happens if I put 5W30 in my car instead of 5w20?
Using 5W-30 instead can reduce fuel economy and impede flow throughout the engine. While using it temporarily in a pinch likely won't cause your engine lasting harm, remember that the engineers who built your engine did so with a specific viscosity oil in mind, meaning it's best to stick with it.
What happens if you use 5w30 instead of 20?
The 5W-20, however, will remain a little thinner once you reach operating temperature to help improve fuel economy and flow fast enough to fill the tight tolerances in the engine. Using 5W-30 instead can reduce fuel economy and impede flow throughout the engine.
What oil does Subaru prefer?
Most new Subaru vehicles require synthetic oil with a viscosity rating of 0W-20.
Can I put 5W-30 instead of 0W20?
**if you have a car that recommends 0W-20, do not use 5W-30 – back # of vis-grade must match or it is a no-go.
Can I put 5W30 in my Subaru?
5W-30 synthetic motor oil is required for 2011 and newer turbo-charged Subaru vehicles.”
Can I use 5W20 instead of 0W20?
If SAE 0W-20 synthetic oil is not available, SAE 5W-20 conventional oil may be used. However, it must be replaced with SAE 0W-20 synthetic oil at the next oil change.
What will happen if I put 5W-30 instead of 5w20?
Using 5W-30 instead can reduce fuel economy and impede flow throughout the engine. While using it temporarily in a pinch likely won't cause your engine lasting harm, remember that the engineers who built your engine did so with a specific viscosity oil in mind, meaning it's best to stick with it.
What oil can I use instead of 0W-20?
If SAE 0W-20 synthetic oil is not available, SAE 5W-20 conventional oil may be used. However, it must be replaced with SAE 0W-20 synthetic oil at the next oil change.
Can I put 5W-30 instead of 0W20 on my Subaru Outback?
Oil Type & Capacity for Subaru Outback
Like the Crosstrek, the oil for the Subaru Outback needs to be an API classification SN or ILSAC GF-5. Also like the Crosstrek, the Outback engine should be filled with 0W-20 synthetic oil. If synthetic oil isn't available, you can use either 5W-30 or 5W-40 conventional oil.
