What kind of oil does a Subaru Forester take?
The Forester's most common answer is 0W-20 full-synthetic motor oil. Always verify the exact specification for your year and engine code in the owner's manual or on the under-hood label.
Overview: standard oil for most Forester engines
For most modern Forester models, Subaru recommends a 0W-20 synthetic oil as the standard grade. This viscosity supports efficiency and cold-start performance while providing broad temperature protection.
The quick reference below outlines the typical baseline for many Forester engines. Use this as a baseline, but always confirm with your specific vehicle’s documentation.
- Viscosity: 0W-20
- Oil type: full synthetic (synthetic is strongly preferred)
- Capacity (with filter): approximately 4.8–5.0 quarts, depending on the engine and model
- Change interval: per the owner's manual; with synthetic oil, many drivers follow the schedule of about every 6,000–7,500 miles under normal conditions, and more frequently in severe conditions
These guidelines cover the majority of Forester configurations in recent years. Always check your manual or dealer notes for your exact model.
Variants and exceptions: turbocharged and older Foresters
Some older or turbocharged Forester variants and select model years may have different recommendations. The exact viscosity and oil type can vary by engine code (for example, turbocharged variants) and climate, so it’s essential to consult the specific manual for your car.
- Turbocharged 2.0L variants (when present in certain years) may specify a different viscosity in some climates or for certain model years; verify with the manual
- Early-generation Foresters (older than the mid-2010s) may have distinct guidelines that differ from current models; always reference the era-specific manual
Using the wrong oil can impact protection and performance, so rely on the official documentation for your exact vehicle configuration.
How to verify your oil specification quickly
To confirm the precise oil grade for your Forester, use these quick verification methods.
- Check the owner's manual: locate the Lubrication or Maintenance section for the recommended viscosity and oil type
- Look under the hood for the information sticker or label near the engine bay, which often lists oil specs and capacity
- Identify your engine code (e.g., FB, FA, or similar) and cross-check it with Subaru’s official documentation or a dealer
- When in doubt, contact a Subaru dealer or a trusted mechanic with your VIN handy
These steps will help ensure you’re using the exact grade Subaru prescribes for your Forester.
Using the hood sticker and owner's manual
The most reliable quick checks are the hood info label and the owner’s manual, which together specify the correct viscosity, oil type, and capacity for your exact model year and engine.
What to do if your manual is missing
If you don’t have the manual handy, contact a Subaru dealership or use Subaru’s official online resources with your VIN. In practice, 0W-20 synthetic is the standard for most modern Foresters, but confirmation is essential for older or turbocharged variants.
Summary
In short, 0W-20 full-synthetic oil is the standard recommendation for most contemporary Subaru Forester engines. Always verify the exact specification for your year, engine code, and climate with the owner’s manual, under-hood label, or a Subaru dealer. Variations exist for turbocharged or older models, but the baseline remains 0W-20 synthetic for the majority of Foresters sold today.
What kind of oil does a 2017 Subaru Forester take?
The 2017 Subaru Forester requires 0W-20 full synthetic oil for non-turbo engines and 5W-30 full synthetic oil for turbo engines. The non-turbo engine holds approximately 5.1 quarts of oil with a filter change, while turbo models require 5W-30 synthetic oil. Always check your owner's manual for the most accurate information for your specific vehicle.
Oil type by engine
- Non-turbo engine (2.5L): 0W-20 full synthetic oil is recommended.
- Turbo engine (2.0L XT): 5W-30 full synthetic oil is recommended.
Important considerations
- Engine oil capacity: The 2.5L engine requires about 5.1 quarts of oil with a filter change.
- Synthetic oil is required: Subaru models made after 2011 require full synthetic oil.
- Checking the oil level: After refilling, check the oil level to ensure it's at the optimal amount.
- Using conventional oil: If synthetic is unavailable, you can use conventional oil as a temporary substitute, but you should switch back to the recommended synthetic at your next oil change.
What happens if you use the wrong oil in a forester?
The correct oil type and viscosity are crucial for maintaining your Subaru Forester's engine performance and longevity. Using the wrong oil viscosity can lead to increased engine wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and even engine damage.
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.
What type of engine oil for Subaru Forester 2016?
2014–2018 Forester (Fourth generation)
Forester XT (turbo): 5W‑30 synthetic required. Subaru parts literature specifies 5W‑30 synthetic for 2011+ turbocharged models.
