What oil is recommended for Subaru?

For most Subaru models today, the recommended oil is full synthetic 0W-20. However, exceptions exist based on model, year, and climate, so always check your specific owner's manual or ask a Subaru dealer for the exact specification for your engine.

Typical Subaru oil recommendations

Here is a concise guide to the oil grades and types Subaru generally prescribes for its current gasoline engines. The goal is to use the oil that provides optimal protection, performance, and fuel efficiency across most Subarus sold in recent years.

• Viscosity: 0W-20 is the standard grade for most modern Subaru engines in North America and many other markets.


• Oil type: Full synthetic oil is strongly recommended for durability and performance; conventional or synthetic blends are typically not the default choice for new engines unless the manual allows them.


• Standards: Use oil that meets API SN or ILSAC GF-6 specifications (these are the current industry standards for new engines and oils).

In short, the default approach is 0W-20 full synthetic meeting GF-6/SN standards, with manual consultation advised if your vehicle is older or designed for a different climate.

How to verify the exact specification for your car

Because oil requirements can vary by model year and market, you should confirm the precise specification using official sources and your vehicle’s documentation. The following steps help ensure you’re using the correct oil for your Subaru.

• Consult the owner’s manual or service booklet that came with your vehicle for the exact viscosity and oil type.


• Inspect the engine oil filler cap, which sometimes indicates the required viscosity (e.g., 0W-20); note that some caps may only show a general specification.


• Check Subaru’s official website or your VIN-specific service portal for the recommended oil and any special notes for your model/year.


• Ask a Subaru dealer or certified technician to confirm the recommended oil grade for your engine if you’re unsure.

Following these steps will ensure you’re aligned with Subaru’s current guidance and your particular vehicle’s needs.

Model-specific notes and climate considerations

Engine design, climate, and driving conditions can influence oil choice. While 0W-20 is the prevailing recommendation for many Subaru models, some older engines, regional variants, or extreme operating environments may call for different viscosities (for example, 5W-30) as specified in the owner’s manual. Turbocharged models and high-performance variants may have their own nuances, so always verify with the manual or a Subaru service professional.

As a practical rule, use the oil grade that Subaru specifies for your exact model and climate, and adhere to the recommended service intervals to maintain optimal protection and efficiency.

Summary

Across most Subaru vehicles, the recommended oil is full synthetic 0W-20, meeting API SN or ILSAC GF-6 standards. Always verify the exact specification for your model, year, and climate via the owner’s manual, official Subaru resources, or a dealer. When in doubt, a certified Subaru technician can confirm the correct grade and help you choose the right oil for long-term engine health.

Is it okay to use 5w30 instead of 0w20?

It is not ideal to use 5W-30 instead of 0W-20, as 5W-30 is thicker and could negatively impact fuel economy and potentially increase wear in modern engines designed for the thinner 0W-20 oil. While it may not cause immediate damage, long-term use of a heavier oil grade can lead to reduced efficiency and strain on certain engine components. 
Potential consequences of using 5W-30 in an engine designed for 0W-20 

• Reduced fuel economy: Thinner oils like 0W-20 are specified for their lower viscosity, which helps improve fuel efficiency. Using a thicker oil can slightly decrease fuel economy. 
• Increased wear on startup: A heavier oil takes longer to circulate at cold temperatures, which can increase wear on engine parts, especially during cold starts. 
• Engine stress: Modern engines with 0W-20 oil use precise specifications for things like oil flow and pressure. Using a thicker oil may cause components like the timing chain tensioners to not receive the correct pressure. 
• Potential for issues in some modern vehicles: Some modern vehicles with 0W-20 oil may even trigger a check engine light because their engine control modules (ECMs) detect the thicker oil. 

When it might be a different story

• Older engines: Some older engines might have been designed with 5W-30 as a recommended viscosity, and in some cases, the thicker oil can even reduce oil consumption in engines that have developed wear over time. 
• Extremely hot climates: In very hot climates, some mechanics suggest that a 5W-30 oil might be a better choice for high-temperature protection. However, it's still best to check your owner's manual to see if 5W-30 is listed as an acceptable alternative for your region. 

Conclusion

• Always check your owner's manual: Your owner's manual is the most reliable source for oil type recommendations. 
• Use 0W-20 if specified: If your vehicle's manual specifically calls for 0W-20, it's best to stick with it to ensure optimal performance and longevity. 
• Consider 5W-30 only if recommended: If your owner's manual allows for 5W-30 as an alternative or if you are in a very hot climate and the manual permits it, you could consider using it. 

Why does Subaru recommend 0W20?

Subaru uses 0W−200 cap W minus 200𝑊−20 oil in its non-turbocharged engines because its low viscosity improves fuel economy and reduces friction, while also providing excellent protection across a wide range of temperatures. This specific oil is formulated to work with the low-friction design of these engines and is optimized to help them operate efficiently and last longer. 

• Improved fuel efficiency: The thinner viscosity of 0W−200 cap W minus 200𝑊−20 oil allows it to flow more easily, reducing drag and leading to a slight improvement in miles per gallon. 
• Enhanced cold-weather performance: It flows more readily in cold conditions than higher-weight oils, which helps with faster lubrication and less wear when the engine is starting up. 
• Optimized for engine design: Subaru formulates its 0W−200 cap W minus 200𝑊−20 oil specifically for its non-turbocharged engines to work well with their low-friction design and ensure optimal performance and longevity. 
• Consistent viscosity: Synthetic 0W−200 cap W minus 200𝑊−20 oil is designed to maintain its viscosity across both hot and cold weather extremes, preventing breakdown and providing consistent protection. 

What kind of oil does a 2.5 L Subaru take?

The oil type for a Subaru 2.5L engine depends on the year and whether the engine is turbocharged. Newer, non-turbo models typically use 0W-20 full synthetic, while older or turbocharged models may require 5W-30 synthetic. Always consult your owner's manual for the specific recommendation for your vehicle.
 
Recommended oil by engine type

• Non-turbo 2.5L (Newer Models): 0W-20 full synthetic 
• Turbocharged 2.5L (e.g., EJ255): 5W-30 full synthetic 
• Older 2.5L Models: 5W-30 conventional or synthetic, especially for vehicles with higher mileage 

Important considerations

• Owner's Manual: The most accurate information will always be in your vehicle's owner's manual, which specifies the correct viscosity grade and oil type. 
• Synthetic vs. Conventional: Most newer Subaru models require full synthetic oil. While conventional oil may be a temporary substitute in an emergency, you should switch back to synthetic at the next oil change. 
• API Classification: The oil should meet the required specifications, such as API SN/ILSAC GF-5, to ensure proper lubrication and engine protection. 

What kind of oil does Subaru recommend?

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.