What oil is best for a Subaru WRX?
For most Subaru WRX models, the safest default is a high-quality full-synthetic oil that meets ILSAC GF-6 (or newer) and follows the viscosity prescribed in the owner's manual. In practice, 5W-30 synthetic is the common starting point, but the exact spec can vary by year, engine, and climate, so always verify with the manual or a Subaru technician.
Official guidance for WRX engines
Subaru emphasizes using a full-synthetic motor oil that meets current ILSAC GF-6 (or newer) standards. The viscosity grade is specified by your exact year and model in the owner's manual. While 5W-30 synthetic is widely used for modern WRX engines, the manual may call for a different grade in certain climates or for specific variants. Always follow the documented specification for your VIN.
Current-generation considerations
In recent WRX models, including turbocharged configurations, owners typically rely on a synthetic oil that meets GF-6 with a 5W-30 grade as the standard recommendation. This combination balances cold-start protection, oil pressure, and temperature resilience under boost. If your manual lists a different viscosity for your climate, that specification takes precedence.
Viscosity and climate considerations
Oil viscosity affects startup protection, lubrication under boost, and film strength when the engine runs hot. Climate, driving style, and track use can influence whether you should stick to the default or adjust within Subaru’s guidelines. The following guidance reflects common practice among WRX owners and technicians, but the exact requirement for your car should come from the manual.
To simplify choosing, here are the viscosity options you’ll typically encounter for WRX engines, aligned with climate and usage.
- 5W-30 synthetic oil as the default choice for most WRX models in temperate climates.
- 0W-30 or 0W-40 may be considered in very cold climates or if your manual specifies these grades for startup protection; always confirm compatibility with your model year.
- 5W-40 (or 5W-50) can be used in very hot climates or under high-load/high-boost driving if approved by Subaru in the manual; this provides greater film strength at elevated temperatures.
In short: select the viscosity your manual prescribes, with 5W-30 synthetic serving as the common default for many modern WRX applications. Climate and driving style can justify alternatives, but always rely on the official specification for your car.
Oil brands and certifications to look for
Choose a full-synthetic oil that clearly meets the ILSAC GF-6 (or newer) standard and, ideally, API SN Plus or a newer API rating. Subaru-owner components and dealer service often favor oils that are widely available and proven in performance applications. Below are examples of brands and grades commonly used by WRX owners that align with GF-6/SN standards.
- Mobil 1 Extended Performance or Mobil 1 5W-30 (GF-6 compatible)
- Castrol EDGE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (GF-6 compatible)
- Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic 5W-30 (GF-6 compatible)
- Valvoline SynPower 5W-30 (GF-6 compatible)
- Subaru Genuine Engine Oil 5W-30 (GF-6 compatible)
Regardless of brand, ensure the label shows compatibility with ILSAC GF-6 (or newer) and that the viscosity matches your manual. If in doubt, ask a Subaru technician or refer to the vehicle’s VIN-specific maintenance guide.
Maintenance intervals and practical tips
Oil change intervals for WRX models depend on driving conditions, oil grade, and the model year. Synthetic oils typically allow longer intervals than conventional oil, but severe-duty use—such as frequent track days, short trips in cold weather, or hauling/heavy load—may shorten service intervals. A common guidance range is roughly every 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km) for normal driving, with more frequent changes under severe service. Always follow the schedule printed in your owner's manual and monitor oil level and health between services.
What to tell your mechanic or technician
When asking for oil service, provide your WRX’s year, engine (turbocharged), and VIN if possible, and request a full-synthetic oil that meets GF-6 or newer with the viscosity specified in the manual. If you operate hot or aggressively, discuss whether a higher-viscosity option is appropriate for your climate and use. If you use an aftermarket oil filter or a mid-cycle oil monitoring system, mention it so the service can be performed with the correct procedure.
Summary
The best oil for a Subaru WRX is a high-quality full-synthetic oil that meets ILSAC GF-6 (or newer) and matches the viscosity specified by your year and model in the owner's manual. In most modern WRX cars, 5W-30 synthetic is the common default, but climate, driving style, and model year can justify alternatives. Always verify the exact specification for your vehicle and follow the recommended oil-change intervals to maintain turbocharger reliability and overall engine health.
