What is the best oil to use in a Subaru Impreza?
Choosing the right engine oil for your Subaru Impreza is crucial for maintaining its performance and longevity. With various options available, it can be challenging to determine which oil is best suited for your vehicle. In this article, we will explore the recommended oil types, their benefits, and tips for ensuring your Impreza runs smoothly.
Recommended Oil Types
Subaru recommends using synthetic oil for the Impreza, particularly for models equipped with the 2.0L or 2.5L engines. Here are the key specifications:
- Viscosity Grade: 0W-20 is the preferred viscosity grade for most Subaru Impreza models. This oil provides excellent flow at low temperatures and maintains its viscosity at high temperatures.
- API Certification: Look for oil that meets the API (American Petroleum Institute) certification standards, specifically SN or newer. This ensures the oil has been tested for performance and quality.
- Full Synthetic Oil: Full synthetic oils offer superior protection and performance compared to conventional oils. They provide better engine cleanliness, improved fuel efficiency, and enhanced protection against wear.
Benefits of Using the Right Oil
Using the correct oil type for your Subaru Impreza can lead to several benefits:
- Improved Engine Performance: The right oil helps your engine run more efficiently, providing better acceleration and responsiveness.
- Enhanced Fuel Economy: Synthetic oils reduce friction, which can lead to improved fuel efficiency, saving you money at the pump.
- Longer Engine Life: Proper lubrication reduces wear and tear on engine components, extending the life of your vehicle.
Tips for Oil Changes
To keep your Subaru Impreza in top condition, consider the following tips for oil changes:
- Regular Intervals: Change your oil every 6,000 miles or as recommended in your owner’s manual. Regular changes help maintain engine health.
- Check Oil Levels: Regularly check your oil levels and top off as needed to ensure optimal performance.
- Use Quality Filters: Always use high-quality oil filters to prevent contaminants from entering your engine.
In conclusion, using the right oil in your Subaru Impreza is essential for maintaining its performance and longevity. By following the manufacturer's recommendations and adhering to regular maintenance schedules, you can ensure your vehicle runs smoothly for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Subaru genuine oil?
Genuine Subaru Oil is the only motor oil specifically formulated for the unique design and operation of the SUBARU BOXER® engine. It's engineered to clean and protect internal components between oil changes better than most leading aftermarket brands for a lifetime of miles.
What happens if you put full synthetic oil instead of regular?
Answer. Synthetic oils typically provide better protection than conventional oils, but switching back and forth between full synthetic and conventional oil will not damage the engine. Of course, this depends on the current engine condition and the quality of the conventional oil being used.
How long does synthetic oil last Subaru Impreza?
Synthetic Blend Oil Changes
A synthetic blend oil change offers superior oil life compared to a conventional oil change. Synthetic blend oil changes typically split the difference and are needed every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.
Can I use 5W-30 instead of 0W-20?
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 oil is best for a Subaru Impreza?
From the factory, Subaru uses 5w-30 non-synth Valvoline oil. In summer, if it's hot, you may want to run a 10w-30 or even 10w-40, especially if you're beating on the engine on the track or you're burning oil. There are lots of variables to consider, including mods, vehicle usage, engine condition, so on and so forth.
Do subarus need full 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).
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.
Can I use 5w30 instead of 0w20 in Subaru Impreza?
Synthetic oil-specifically 0W-20-is highly recommended for optimal engine performance and protection. If synthetic oil isn't available at the time of an oil change, 5W-30 conventional oil may be used instead. However, it should be replaced with synthetic oil at the next change.
What kind of oil for a 2015 Subaru Impreza?
Subaru Oil Change Schedule
| Model | Year | Oil Viscosity |
|---|---|---|
| Impreza | 2013-2015 | 0W-20 |
| WRX/STI | 2013-2015 | 5W-30 |
| Legacy | 2013-2015 | 0W-20 |
| Legacy | 2013-2015 | 5W-30 |
What oil does Subaru prefer?
Most new Subaru vehicles require synthetic oil with a viscosity rating of 0W-20.
