Is Subaru Forester full synthetic or blend oil?
The Subaru Forester uses full synthetic oil. Subaru recommends using 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil in the Forester to ensure optimal engine performance and longevity.
Subaru Forester Oil Specifications
According to Subaru's owner's manual, the recommended oil for the Subaru Forester is 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil. Subaru specifies that this oil type should be used in all Forester models, regardless of the engine size or model year.
The use of full synthetic oil is important for the Forester's turbocharged engines, as it provides superior protection against wear, deposits, and viscosity breakdown compared to conventional or synthetic blend oils. Subaru engineers have designed the Forester's engine to work best with the lubrication properties of full synthetic 0W-20 oil.
Benefits of Full Synthetic Oil
There are several key advantages to using full synthetic oil in the Subaru Forester:
- Improved Fuel Efficiency: Full synthetic oils have lower internal friction, allowing the engine to operate more efficiently and improving fuel economy.
- Enhanced Engine Protection: Synthetic oils provide better wear protection for critical engine components like the pistons, rings, and bearings, extending engine life.
- Reduced Oil Consumption: Synthetic oils are more resistant to high heat and oxidation, resulting in less oil breakdown and consumption between changes.
- Easier Cold Weather Starting: The low-viscosity 0W-20 rating allows the oil to flow more readily in cold temperatures, improving cold starts.
Subaru's recommendation of full synthetic 0W-20 oil is an important maintenance requirement to keep the Forester's engine running at its best. Using the proper oil type is crucial for maximizing the Forester's performance, fuel efficiency, and long-term reliability.
Does Subaru use synthetic blend oil?
Frequently Asked Questions About Synthetic Oil
Naturally aspirated engines in the newest Forester, Impreza, Legacy, Outback, and BRZ models as well as turbocharged models require Subaru Synthetic Motor Oil (or its equivalent).
What are the disadvantages of synthetic blend oil?
Synthetic blend oil is different because it uses a mixture of synthetic and conventional based oils. Synthetic blend oil offers less protection than full synthetic oil and needs to be changed more often.
Should I put full synthetic or synthetic blend?
Full synthetic oil provides superior lubrication, better performance in extreme temperatures, longer oil life, and better engine cleanliness. Switching to a synthetic blend will slightly reduce these benefits but still offer better performance than conventional oil alone.
What oil does Subaru recommend?
Subaru Oil Guide:
| Model | Subaru Oil Required | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Subaru WRX 2011 - 2020 | 5W-30 Synthetic Oil | 4.4 - 5.4 Quarts |
| Subaru Crosstrek 2013 - 2021 | 0W-20 Synthetic Oil | 4.4 - 5.1 Quarts |
| Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid 2014 - 2021 | 0W-20 Synthetic Oil | 4.4 - 5.1 Quarts |
| Subaru Ascent 2019 - 2021 | 0W-20 Synthetic Oil | 4.8 Quarts |
What kind of oil does a Subaru Forester take?
Subaru requires/recommends 5W-30 synthetic oil for your Forester XT's turbo engine. As long as the selected oil's certifications are API SM or SN, and/or ILSAC GF4 or GF5, you're good to go.
What happens if you put full synthetic oil instead of regular?
When it comes to doing oil changes, switching between synthetic and conventional oil is perfectly okay. Despite the oil myths, both oil types are compatible with each other – no engine flush needed. So, simply making the switch will not cause any damage to your engine nor impact your travels.
What oil does Subaru prefer?
Most new Subaru vehicles require synthetic oil with a viscosity rating of 0W-20.
Does a Subaru Forester need full synthetic oil?
Any Subaru Forester after 2011 requires synthetic oil. Newer models after 2011 with a non-turbocharged engine take 0W-20 oil, whereas turbocharged engine models require 5W-30 oil. Get a breakdown of the recommended Subaru Forester oil types below: Subaru Forester 2002 to 2010: 5W-30 Conventional Oil.
What type of oil does Subaru recommend?
Subaru Oil Guide:
| Model | Subaru Oil Required | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Subaru WRX 2011 - 2020 | 5W-30 Synthetic Oil | 4.4 - 5.4 Quarts |
| Subaru Crosstrek 2013 - 2021 | 0W-20 Synthetic Oil | 4.4 - 5.1 Quarts |
| Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid 2014 - 2021 | 0W-20 Synthetic Oil | 4.4 - 5.1 Quarts |
| Subaru Ascent 2019 - 2021 | 0W-20 Synthetic Oil | 4.8 Quarts |
Can I use 5W-30 instead of 0W20 in a Subaru Forester?
If you drive a Subaru Forester with a non-turbo engine, it requires 0W-20. If you drive a model with a turbo engine, you'll need 5W-30.
