What kind of oil does a Subaru Outback take?

Most Subaru Outbacks use 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil. The exact specification can vary by engine and year, so the owner's manual or the under-hood oil label is the best source for your specific vehicle. In practice, 0W-20 covers most modern Outbacks, while some older six-cylinder models used 5W-30.

Oil type by engine and model year

The Outback lineup has included different engines over the years. Here is a straightforward guide to what those engines typically require.

• 2.5L four-cylinder (most modern Outbacks): 0W-20 synthetic oil.


• 2.4L turbo (Outback XT): 0W-20 synthetic oil.


• 3.6L flat-6 (older Outbacks): commonly 5W-30 synthetic oil.

As always, confirm the exact specification for your model year by checking the owner's manual, the oil filler cap, or a Subaru dealer, since there can be year-to-year variations.

Oil change intervals and performance considerations

Oil type is only part of the maintenance equation. Intervals and product choices depend on driving conditions and oil grade. Here are general guidelines and practical tips.

• Viscosity and grade: 0W-20 full synthetic oil is standard for the vast majority of current Outbacks. Use oils that meet Subaru's specifications (often API SN or newer, GF-5 or GF-6).


• Brand options: Reputable synthetic oils that meet the required specs, including Subaru-branded oil or major brands (Pennzoil Platinum, Mobil 1, Castrol EDGE, Valvoline, etc.).


• Change interval: Follow the maintenance schedule in your owner's manual. With synthetic 0W-20, many drivers aim for roughly every 6,000 miles (about 9,600 km) under normal driving, and more frequent changes under severe driving conditions.

Conclusion: For most Outbacks, use 0W-20 synthetic oil and adhere to the maintenance schedule in your manual. If you drive an older model with a 3.6L engine, you may see a 5W-30 recommendation—verify for your year.

Additional considerations

Always verify engine type, climate, and driving conditions. The right oil for your Subaru Outback is the specification listed in your manual, and sticking to it will help maintain performance and longevity.

Summary: The standard oil for most modern Subaru Outbacks is 0W-20 full synthetic. Older 3.6L models used 5W-30. Always check the owner's manual or your under-hood oil cap for the exact requirement on your year and engine, and follow the recommended maintenance intervals for best results.

What kind of oil should I put in my Subaru Outback?

The recommended Subaru Outback oil type depends on the model year and engine, with 0W-20 synthetic oil being standard for most newer 4-cylinder models and 5W-30 synthetic oil for many older or 6-cylinder engines. Newer turbocharged engines often require 5W-30 synthetic oil, while some older models used conventional 5W-30. 
For most newer Subaru Outback models

• 0W-20 synthetic oil: Recommended for 4-cylinder engines and most newer Outbacks to ensure smooth operation in a variety of temperatures. 

For 6-cylinder engines

• 5W-30 synthetic oil: This is often the recommended type for 6-cylinder engines. 
• 5W-30 conventional oil: Some older 6-cylinder models may recommend this. 

For turbocharged engines

• 5W-30 synthetic oil: Required for 2011 and newer turbocharged Subaru vehicles. 

Important notes

• Always consult your owner's manual for the precise oil type and capacity for your specific vehicle. 
• Synthetic oil is generally recommended for newer models for better performance and protection. 

What oil is recommended for a 2019 Subaru Outback?

Subaru Outback 2002 to 2012: 5W-30 Conventional Oil. Subaru Outback 2013 to 2023: 0W-20 Synthetic Oil. Subaru Outback (6-Cylinder) 2002 to 2019: 5W-30 Conventional Oil. Subaru Outback (6-Cylinder) 2020 to 2023: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil.

What kind of oil does a 2018 Subaru Outback take?

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 kind of oil does a 2.5 L Subaru Outback take?

For a Subaru Outback 2.5L, the recommended oil is 0W-20 full synthetic oil for newer models (2013 and newer), while older models (2002-2012) typically use 5W-30 conventional or synthetic oil. Always check the owner's manual or the oil filler cap for the exact specification for your specific model year. 
Recommended oil types

• 2013 and newer models: The manufacturer recommends 0W-20 full synthetic oil for optimal performance and fuel economy. 
• 5W-30 conventional or synthetic oil: 2002 to 2012 models: is the recommended type. 

What to do

• Check the owner's manual: This is the most accurate source for your specific vehicle's requirements. 
• Look at the oil filler cap: The cap on top of the engine will also have the recommended oil viscosity printed on it. 
• Consider synthetic oil: Even for older models, using a high-quality synthetic oil is beneficial for engine protection. 
• If you can't find the recommended oil: If 0W-20 synthetic isn't available, you can use 5W-30 conventional oil in a pinch, but you should switch to the correct 0W-20 synthetic at the next oil change.