What is special about Subaru oil?
Subaru vehicles require a specific type of oil that is designed to meet the unique needs of their engines. Subaru oil is formulated with a higher viscosity and enhanced additives to provide superior lubrication and protection for Subaru's renowned Boxer engines.
Subaru's Boxer Engine Design
Subaru's Boxer engines, also known as "flat" or "horizontally-opposed" engines, have a unique design that sets them apart from traditional inline or V-shaped engines. In a Boxer engine, the pistons move horizontally, opposed to each other, rather than vertically. This design provides a lower center of gravity, improved balance, and smoother power delivery. However, it also places different demands on the engine oil compared to other engine types.
Specialized Subaru Oil Formulation
To meet the specific requirements of Subaru's Boxer engines, the company has developed a proprietary oil formulation that includes the following key features:
- Higher Viscosity: Subaru oil has a higher viscosity rating, typically 5W-30 or 5W-40, compared to the more common 5W-20 or 5W-25 used in many other vehicles. The higher viscosity helps maintain proper lubrication and oil film thickness in the Boxer engine's unique design.
- Enhanced Additives: Subaru oil contains specialized additives that provide increased wear protection, improved oxidation resistance, and better detergency to keep the engine clean and running smoothly.
- Compatibility with Subaru Components: Subaru oil is formulated to be compatible with the materials and seals used in Subaru's engines, transmission, and other components, reducing the risk of leaks or premature wear.
Using the correct Subaru-approved oil is essential for maintaining the health and performance of your Subaru vehicle. Failure to use the recommended oil can lead to increased wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and even engine damage over time.
Importance of Regular Oil Changes
In addition to using the right oil, it's crucial to follow Subaru's recommended oil change intervals, which are typically shorter than those for many other vehicles. This is because Subaru engines operate under higher loads and temperatures, which can cause the oil to break down more quickly. Regularly changing the oil helps ensure your Subaru's engine continues to receive the lubrication and protection it needs.
By understanding the unique requirements of Subaru's Boxer engines and using the correct, specialized oil, you can help ensure your Subaru vehicle runs at its best for years to come.
What is so special about Subaru engine?
Benefits of the SUBARU BOXER Engine
Reduced vibration: Since it operates symmetrically and entirely on one horizontal plane, the SUBARU BOXER engine tends to cause less vibration, resulting in a smoother, more comfortable drive.
Can you put regular oil in a Subaru?
You can use any brand of conventional, semi-synthetic, or synthetic oil that meets Subaru's requirements for your engine, as stated in your Owner's Manual.
What is the OEM Subaru oil?
Synthetic 0W-20 is uniquely formulated to handle the low-friction design of Subaru non-turbocharged engines. Synthetic 5W-30 motor oil is required for 2011 and newer turbo-charged engines, and is recommended for prior year models.
Do I have to use genuine Subaru oil?
Recommended especially for turbo-charged engines, Genuine Subaru Certified 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil provides superior protection against oil breakdown for cleaner running and long engine life. 5W-30 synthetic motor oil is required for 2011 and newer turbo-charged Subaru vehicles.”
Does changing my own oil void Subaru warranty?
If you're asking, “Can I change my own oil in my car without voiding the warranty?” the answer is yes. Changing your own oil won't directly void your car manufacturer's warranty. However, the manufacturer won't cover the repairs if you damage your car while trying to change your own oil.
Is there anything special about Subaru oil?
What are the advantages of Subaru Synthetic Motor Oil? The technical advantages of Subaru synthetic motor oils include: Measurably better low and high temperature viscosity performance. Better chemical & shear stability.
What is the biggest problem with Subaru engines?
Oil consumption
Some Subaru engines have been known to consume excessive amounts of oil. This can be caused by a number of factors, including worn piston rings, a leaky valve cover gasket, or a failing oil pump. Symptoms of oil consumption include: Low oil level.
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.
Why do Subarus use so much oil?
Consumer Reports on Subaru Oil Consumption Issues
As a result, the new engine designs suffered restricted oil durability. Some consumer posts suggested that the piston ring design was the source of the problem. As a result, oil bypasses the piston and results in premature combustion.
How is a Subaru engine different from a normal engine?
There is less vibration from a Boxer engine than from an inline or V engine. This is because the counter "punch" of the opposing cylinder cancels any unwanted vibration, whereas inline or V engines need additional parts to accomplish this.
