Is 5W-30 good for Subaru?
Yes, 5W-30 motor oil is generally considered a good choice for Subaru vehicles. This oil grade is recommended by Subaru for many of their models, as it provides the right balance of viscosity and protection for Subaru's engines.
Understanding 5W-30 Oil for Subaru
The "5W-30" designation refers to the oil's viscosity, which is a measure of its thickness and flow characteristics. The "5W" part indicates the oil's cold weather performance, while the "30" refers to its viscosity at normal operating temperatures. This oil grade is designed to flow easily when the engine is cold, yet maintain sufficient thickness to lubricate critical engine components when the engine is hot.
Subaru recommends 5W-30 oil for many of its models, including the Impreza, Outback, Ascent, and others. This oil grade helps ensure proper lubrication and protection for Subaru's horizontally-opposed "boxer" engines, which have unique design characteristics compared to more common V-shaped or inline engines.
Benefits of Using 5W-30 in Subaru Vehicles
- Improved Cold Weather Performance: The "5W" rating allows the oil to flow more easily when the engine is cold, reducing wear and improving fuel efficiency during startup and warm-up.
- Adequate Viscosity at Operating Temperatures: The "30" rating ensures the oil maintains sufficient thickness to protect critical engine components like bearings, cylinders, and pistons when the engine is at normal operating temperatures.
- Compatibility with Subaru Engines: Subaru specifically recommends 5W-30 oil for many of its models, indicating it is the optimal choice for their unique engine designs.
- Meets Manufacturer Specifications: Using the recommended 5W-30 oil helps ensure your Subaru's warranty remains valid and that the engine receives the proper lubrication and protection.
In summary, 5W-30 motor oil is an excellent choice for Subaru vehicles, providing the right balance of cold weather performance and viscosity protection for Subaru's boxer engines. Following Subaru's recommended oil specifications is important for maintaining your vehicle's reliability and longevity.
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.
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.
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.
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.
What oil does Subaru prefer?
Most new Subaru vehicles require synthetic oil with a viscosity rating of 0W-20.
Can I put 5W30 in my Subaru?
5W-30 synthetic motor oil is required for 2011 and newer turbo-charged Subaru vehicles.”
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 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 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.
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.
