What kind of oil does a 2009 Subaru take?
Most 2009 Subaru models use SAE 5W-30 engine oil, typically a synthetic or synthetic-blend. However, the exact viscosity depends on the engine and climate, so always verify in the owner’s manual or on the under-hood oil specification sticker for your vehicle.
In the 2009 lineup, Subaru offered several models with different engines—from 2.5-liter four-cylinders to a 3.0-liter flat-six, plus turbocharged variants in the WRX. While 5W-30 is the common recommendation across these engines, the precise grade and whether a synthetic blend or full synthetic is preferred can vary by model and climate. The following guide covers typical oil requirements by engine family and provides steps to confirm the correct specification for your car.
Engine and model-specific oil guidelines
Below is a quick-reference guide covering the most common engines in the 2009 Subaru lineup. Always confirm with the owner’s manual or the oil-cap sticker for your exact vehicle.
- 2.5L four-cylinder (Impreza/Forester/Outback 2.5) – Typical viscosity: SAE 5W-30; suitable with conventional, synthetic-blend, or full synthetic oil, depending on climate and driving conditions. Check the manual for specifics.
- 3.0L H6 (Outback/Legacy/Tribeca) – Typically SAE 5W-30; use synthetic-blend or full synthetic as recommended by Subaru for long-term protection.
- 2.5L turbo (WRX) – Usually SAE 5W-30 synthetic; verify exact specification in the owner’s manual, especially for climate or performance considerations.
The key takeaway is to use the grade indicated by Subaru for 2009 models, with 5W-30 being the typical recommendation. Exact grade can vary by engine and climate, so verify with the owner’s manual and the under-hood sticker.
How to verify the correct oil for your 2009 Subaru
Steps to confirm the right oil for your vehicle:
- Check the owner’s manual for your exact model and engine.
- Look at the viscosity listed on the oil fill cap and the engine oil sticker under the hood.
- If in doubt, contact a Subaru dealer or a qualified mechanic for confirmation.
Summary
In summary, the 2009 Subaru lineup generally calls for SAE 5W-30 oil, whether conventional, synthetic-blend, or full synthetic, across its main engines. Always confirm the precise viscosity and API specification for your model and climate in your owner’s manual or at a Subaru service center.
