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What kind of oil does a 2010 Subaru take?

Most 2010 Subarus use synthetic 5W-30 engine oil, but the exact viscosity depends on the engine type and climate. Always verify with the owner's manual or the oil filler cap.


Engine-specific oil requirements


Different 2010 Subaru models use different engines and therefore different oil specifications. The following outlines the typical guidance by engine family. Always check your model’s manual for climate-specific allowances and exact numbers.


2.5-liter horizontally opposed (H4) engines


Typical oil recommendation for the 2.5L four-cylinder family in 2010 Subarus:



  • Viscosity: 5W-30 synthetic (full synthetic recommended)

  • Notes: Use oil that meets Subaru’s specification and refer to the manual for climate-specific guidance


Conclusion: For the 2.5L non-turbo engines, 5W-30 synthetic is standard in most regions.


2.5-liter turbocharged engines (WRX)


Oil guidance for turbo models:



  • Viscosity: 5W-40 synthetic (full synthetic often preferred)

  • Notes: Turbo applications typically require higher viscosity for higher temps and boost pressure

  • Capacity: Generally around 4.0–4.5 quarts with filter


Conclusion: Turbocharged 2.5L models commonly call for 5W-40 synthetic oil.


3.0-liter H6 engines (Tribeca)


Oil guidance for Tribeca’s H6 engine:



  • Viscosity: 5W-30 synthetic

  • Notes: Similar to 2.5L non-turbo in viscosity, check manual for climate variations


Conclusion: 5W-30 synthetic is typical for the 3.0L H6 in 2010 Subarus.


How to verify the right oil for your car


Because model configurations vary by market and year, the safest step is to check the owner's manual, look at the oil filler cap, or contact a Subaru dealer. The cap often lists the required viscosity, and the manual covers climate-specific guidance and any alternate options.


Summary


For most 2010 Subarus, the standard oil is synthetic 5W-30 for 2.5L and 3.0L engines, with 5W-40 being common for turbocharged 2.5L engines. Always confirm the exact specification for your vehicle by consulting the owner’s manual or a Subaru dealer, especially if you operate in extreme temperatures or have a turbo engine.

How much oil does a 3.0 L 6 cylinder take?


A 3.0L V6 engine typically takes between 4.5 and 6.5 quarts of oil, but the exact amount depends on the specific vehicle make and model. For example, a 2006 Ford Fusion 3.0L V6 requires 6 quarts, while a 2001 Jaguar S-Type 3.0L V6 needs 6.5 quarts. Always check your vehicle's owner's manual for the precise capacity and oil viscosity requirements. 

Vehicle Oil Capacity
2012 Ford Escape 3.0L V6 6 quarts
2006 Ford Fusion 3.0L V6 6 quarts
2003 Ford Ranger 3.0L V6 4.5 quarts
2001 Jaguar S-Type 3.0L V6 6.5 quarts
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What engine oil does Subaru recommend?


Subaru recommends using 0W-20 synthetic oil for most newer 4-cylinder and non-turbo models, while 0W-16 full synthetic is recommended for some very recent models. 5W-30 full synthetic oil is the correct choice for most newer turbo and 6-cylinder engines. Always consult your owner's manual for the specific viscosity and oil type recommended for your vehicle's model year and engine, as using the correct oil is crucial for performance, fuel efficiency, and engine longevity.
 
Recommended oil types

  • 0W-20 full synthetic: Recommended for most newer 4-cylinder and non-turbo models. 
  • 0W-16 full synthetic: Recommended for some very recent models. Check your owner's manual or under the hood for confirmation. 
  • 5W-30 full synthetic: Recommended for newer turbo and 6-cylinder engines. 
  • 5W-30 Conventional: Can be used as a fallback for some older models if 0W-20 is unavailable, but you should switch back to 0W-20 at the next service. 

Important considerations
  • Consult your owner's manual: This is the most accurate source of information for your specific vehicle.
  • Use synthetic oil: Modern Subarus are designed to use full synthetic oil for better engine protection and efficiency. 
  • Check your oil regularly: Especially for newer vehicles, check the oil level about once every 1,000 miles and top it off as needed to ensure the engine is properly lubricated. 



What kind of oil does a 2010 2.5 5 cylinder take?


AMSOIL 5W-40 MS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil.



Can I put 5W-30 instead of 0W20 on my Subaru Outback?


Oil Type & Capacity for Subaru Outback
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. However, as suggested above, the engine oil should be replaced with synthetic oil during the next change.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.