What oil do I need for a Subaru Impreza?
Choosing the right oil for your Subaru Impreza is crucial for maintaining its performance, longevity, and efficiency. As a trusted auto service provider with years of experience, I’m here to guide you through the process of selecting the best oil for your vehicle. Whether you’re performing an oil change yourself or visiting a professional, understanding your car’s requirements is key.
Understanding Subaru Impreza's Oil Requirements
The type of oil your Subaru Impreza needs depends on its model year, engine type, and driving conditions. Subaru vehicles are known for their Boxer engines, which require specific oil types to ensure optimal performance and protection. Here’s what you need to know:
- Oil Viscosity: Most Subaru Impreza models recommend using 0W-20 synthetic oil. This oil is designed to provide excellent lubrication in a wide range of temperatures, ensuring smooth engine operation.
- API Certification: Always look for oil that meets the API (American Petroleum Institute) SN or SP standards. These certifications ensure the oil meets the latest quality and performance requirements.
- Manufacturer's Recommendation: Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the exact specifications. Subaru typically recommends synthetic oil for its modern engines.
Why Synthetic Oil is Recommended
Synthetic oil is highly recommended for Subaru Impreza models due to its superior performance and durability. Here are some reasons why synthetic oil is the best choice:
- Better Engine Protection: Synthetic oil provides enhanced protection against wear and tear, especially in high-performance engines like Subaru’s Boxer engines.
- Improved Fuel Efficiency: The low viscosity of synthetic oil reduces friction, leading to better fuel economy.
- Temperature Resistance: Synthetic oil performs well in extreme temperatures, ensuring your engine runs smoothly in both hot summers and cold winters.
- Longer Oil Change Intervals: Synthetic oil lasts longer than conventional oil, meaning fewer oil changes and lower maintenance costs over time.
Steps to Check and Change Your Oil
If you’re planning to change your Subaru Impreza’s oil yourself, follow these steps for a smooth process:
- Park your car on a level surface and let the engine cool down.
- Locate the oil drain plug and place a container underneath to catch the old oil.
- Remove the drain plug and let the oil drain completely.
- Replace the oil filter with a new one, ensuring it’s properly tightened.
- Reinstall the drain plug and pour the recommended amount of new oil into the engine.
- Check the oil level using the dipstick and adjust if necessary.
- Dispose of the old oil responsibly by taking it to a recycling center or auto shop.
Final Thoughts
Using the correct oil for your Subaru Impreza is essential for maintaining its performance and reliability. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and opt for high-quality synthetic oil to keep your engine running smoothly. If you’re unsure or need assistance, don’t hesitate to visit a trusted auto service provider like Kevin’s Autos. We’re here to help with all your car maintenance needs!
Frequently Asked Questions
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 a 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.
Do subarus need special 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).
What is the best Subaru Impreza oil?
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 special 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).
What is the best Subaru Impreza engine oil?
Using full synthetic motor oil results in better fuel efficiency, more horsepower, and improved wear protection. An engine's parts are constantly moving at high speeds, creating heat and friction.
What oil does Subaru prefer?
Most new Subaru vehicles require synthetic oil with a viscosity rating of 0W-20.
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.
Is 5W-30 ok for Subaru?
The recommended Subaru Forester oil is best served by a 5W-30 synthetic motor oil, and thankfully, Subaru offers this as an OEM part that's got the Subaru blessing right on it.
What type of oil does a Subaru Impreza take?
If your Subaru Impreza is from 2012 or newer, go for the recommended OEM synthetic Subaru oil (0W-20 synthetic oil). The suitable choice for models between 2002 and 2011 is 5W-30 conventional oil. For models made between 2002 and 2011, opt for 5W-30 conventional oil.
