What is the alternative to 0W20 oil in Subaru?
If you own a Subaru vehicle, you may be wondering what alternative oil options are available if the recommended 0W20 oil is not readily available. While 0W20 is the factory-specified oil weight for many Subaru models, there are a few other suitable alternatives that can be used in a pinch.
Recommended Alternative Oils for Subaru
According to Subaru's recommendations, the following alternative oil weights can be used in place of 0W20:
- 5W20 - This is the next closest oil weight to 0W20 and is generally considered the best alternative. 5W20 provides similar cold-weather performance and engine protection.
- 5W30 - This slightly heavier oil weight can also be used, though it may not provide quite the same level of fuel efficiency as 0W20 or 5W20.
- 10W30 - While not the ideal choice, 10W30 can be used in a pinch if 0W20, 5W20, or 5W30 are not available. However, this heavier oil may impact engine performance and fuel economy to a greater degree.
It's important to note that while these alternative oils can be used, Subaru recommends sticking with the factory-specified 0W20 oil whenever possible for optimal engine performance and longevity.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Alternative Oil
When selecting an alternative oil, there are a few key factors to keep in mind:
- Climate and Temperature - Colder climates may require a thinner, lower viscosity oil like 0W20 or 5W20 for better cold-weather starting and flow. Warmer climates may allow for a slightly heavier 5W30 or 10W30 oil.
- Engine Condition - Older, higher-mileage engines may benefit from the slightly thicker 5W30 or 10W30 oil to help maintain proper lubrication and sealing.
- Manufacturer Recommendations - Always check your Subaru's owner's manual or consult with a dealer to ensure the alternative oil you choose is approved for use in your specific model.
Ultimately, while there are a few suitable alternatives to 0W20 oil for Subaru vehicles, the factory-recommended 0W20 remains the best choice for optimal engine performance and longevity. If possible, it's advisable to use 0W20 oil whenever it's available.
What can I use instead of 0w20?
In most cases yes, 5w20 can be substituted for 0w20.
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 happens if I put 5W40 instead of 0w20?
5w40 has a higher viscosity and broader operating temperature range, so it can be used in warmer climates. Both oils help keep engines clean and protected, though 0w20 may provide slightly better fuel economy. Drivers should consult their owner's manual to determine the best oil for their vehicle and needs.
Why do new cars use 0w20?
Auto manufacturers are looking to make engines smaller and lighter while delivering more power than ever. To protect these smaller powerful engines, thinner oils with better ability to protect and clean engines are needed. This has led to 0W-20 being the fastest growing grade in the motor oil marketplace.
What is the best oil for a Subaru engine?
Motor oil - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia 5W30 is the recommended oil for best fuel economy and is what Subaru puts in the car from the factory. As you can see from the factory manual page above,5w30 basically works for most of us due to climate temps.
What oil does Subaru prefer?
Most new Subaru vehicles require synthetic oil with a viscosity rating of 0W-20.
Is it okay to use 5W-30 instead of 0W20?
Using the proper viscosity motor oil will help protect and maintain the performance of your vehicle's engine. Thus, always refer to the manufacturer's recommendation while your vehicle is under warranty. **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 happens if you put 10w30 instead of 0w20?
Thicker Oil May Not Flow Quickly Enough
The oil won't form a consistent lubricating film, allowing metal-to-metal contact and wear. His engine was designed specifically to use a lower-viscosity oil, in this case 0W-20.
Can I put 5W-30 instead of 0W20 on my 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.
Can I use 5W20 instead of 0w20 in hot weather?
So, 0W20 means the oil's viscosity is 0 in cold temperatures and 20 at the operating temperature. The 5W20 oil is the same except for a viscosity of 5 in cold temperatures. Both oils are designed to use in cold-weather regions. However, these multi-grade oils can perform in hot weather too, although not extremely hot.
