What is the best oil to use for a Subaru Outback?
When it comes to maintaining your Subaru Outback, choosing the right engine oil is crucial. The oil you use can have a significant impact on your vehicle's performance, fuel efficiency, and overall longevity. In this article, we'll explore the best oil options for your Subaru Outback and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
Recommended Oil Specifications for Subaru Outback
Subaru recommends using a high-quality synthetic oil that meets the following specifications for your Outback:
- Viscosity: 0W-20 or 5W-30
- API Service Category: SN or later
- ILSAC GF-5 or later
These specifications ensure that the oil provides the necessary lubrication, protection, and performance for your Subaru's engine, which is designed to operate with a specific type of oil.
Top Oil Recommendations for Subaru Outback
Based on the recommended specifications, here are some of the best oil options for your Subaru Outback:
- Mobil 1 0W-20 Advanced Full Synthetic Motor Oil: This oil meets the API SN and ILSAC GF-5 requirements, providing excellent protection and performance for your Outback's engine.
- Castrol EDGE 0W-20 Advanced Full Synthetic Motor Oil Formulated with Castrol's proprietary Fluid TITANIUM technology, this oil offers superior engine protection and improved fuel efficiency.
- Pennzoil Platinum 0W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil: Designed to meet the latest industry standards, this oil helps to reduce engine wear and improve overall engine performance.
It's important to note that you should always refer to your Subaru Outback's owner's manual for the recommended oil specifications and change intervals. Adhering to these guidelines will help ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your vehicle.
Conclusion
Choosing the right engine oil for your Subaru Outback is essential for maintaining its performance and reliability. By selecting a high-quality synthetic oil that meets the manufacturer's recommendations, you can help protect your vehicle's engine and ensure a smooth, efficient driving experience. Remember to consult your owner's manual and follow the recommended oil change intervals to keep your Outback running at its best.
Does it matter what brand of oil you put in your car?
MYTH: Switching motor oil brands is harmful to my engine.
No. Switching brands is not harmful to your engine as long as you choose an oil marked with the API donut of the same level, e.g., API SN. Motor oil manufacturers must meet minimum industry standards for performance and compatibility of the API mark.
How long does 0w20 synthetic oil last on a Subaru?
How often do I need to change my Subaru Synthetic Motor Oil?
| Model | Oil Required | 1st oil change |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Turbo Models | 0W-20 synthetic | 3,000 |
| Turbo Models | 5W-30 synthetic | 3,750 |
Which is better, 0W-20 or 5W 20?
The 0W-20 synthetic oil temperature range is from -40° to 20° while 5W20's is from -25° to 20°. If you live in a severely cold region where the temperature gets beyond minus 25°, 0W20 is the better option. If there is no chance for the weather to get that much cold, you can exchange the oil.
Is it bad if I 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 brand of oil is recommended for Subaru?
Several top oil brands suit Subaru Foresters, but using genuine Subaru-approved oils is crucial for the best performance and protection. Some prevalent oil brands that meet Subaru's standards include Mobil 1, Castrol, and Pennzoil.
What type of oil does a Subaru Outback take?
The Recommended Subaru Outback Oil Type
0W-20 Synthetic Oil: Recommended for 4-cylinder engines and most newer Subaru Outback models. This oil type ensures smooth engine operation in both cold and hot conditions. 5W-30 Synthetic Oil: Recommended for 6-cylinder engines.
Should I use synthetic oil in my Subaru Outback?
4-cylinder Subaru Outback models from 2002 to 2012 require a conventional oil blend, but any models after 2012 require synthetic oil. The same applies to 6-cylinder models, but models from 2002 to 2019 can take conventional, whereas models after 2019 and onward demand synthetic oil.
Can you put 5W-30 in a Subaru Outback?
This depends on whether you're driving an Outback with a 4-cylinder engine or a 6-cylinder engine. Subaru Outback engines with 4 cylinders require OW-20 synthetic oil, whereas engines with 6 cylinders require 5W-30 synthetic oil.
How often should I change synthetic oil in my Subaru Outback?
between 6,000 and 10,000 miles
Synthetic oil can often go between 6,000 and 10,000 miles before requiring a change.
What kind of oil does a Subaru Outback take?
The Recommended Subaru Outback Oil Type
0W-20 Synthetic Oil: Recommended for 4-cylinder engines and most newer Subaru Outback models. This oil type ensures smooth engine operation in both cold and hot conditions. 5W-30 Synthetic Oil: Recommended for 6-cylinder engines.
