What type of oil does a Subaru BRZ take?
The Subaru BRZ, a popular sports car, requires a specific type of engine oil to ensure optimal performance and longevity. According to the manufacturer's recommendations, the Subaru BRZ takes 0W-20 synthetic motor oil.
Subaru BRZ Engine Oil Specifications
The Subaru BRZ is equipped with a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder boxer engine. Subaru recommends using a 0W-20 synthetic motor oil for this engine. This oil grade provides the necessary lubrication and protection for the engine, while also meeting the manufacturer's fuel efficiency and emissions requirements.
The 0W-20 oil specification means that the oil has a viscosity of 0 at cold temperatures and 20 at high temperatures. This type of oil is designed to flow easily during cold starts, reducing wear on the engine, and maintain its viscosity at high operating temperatures to provide adequate lubrication.
Reasons for Using 0W-20 Oil in the Subaru BRZ
- Engine Protection: The 0W-20 oil helps reduce friction and wear on the engine's moving parts, extending the engine's lifespan.
- Fuel Efficiency: The low-viscosity 0W-20 oil reduces the engine's resistance to motion, improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.
- Manufacturer Recommendation: Subaru specifically recommends 0W-20 oil for the BRZ to ensure the engine operates as designed and to maintain the vehicle's warranty coverage.
It's important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations and use the correct oil type for your Subaru BRZ to ensure optimal engine performance and longevity.
Is it okay to put 5W-30 instead of 0W-20?
It is not recommended to use 5W-30 instead of the recommended 0W-20, as the thicker oil can cause premature engine wear by not reaching all parts and potentially void your warranty. While some engines can handle the switch, especially in hot climates or for older vehicles, using the wrong viscosity can negatively impact fuel efficiency and lead to issues with modern engine components like variable valve timing. Always check your owner's manual for the correct oil specification, and in an emergency, use the correct oil at your next oil change.
Risks of using 5W-30 instead of 0W-20
- Engine wear: The main risk is that the thicker 5W-30 oil may not flow through the very tight tolerances in a modern engine as well as 0W-20, potentially leading to premature wear or failure.
- Component issues: Modern engines are designed for precise oil flow, and using a thicker oil can interfere with components like the variable valve timing system.
- Warranty issues: Using an oil that is not specified by the manufacturer can void your engine's warranty if an issue arises.
- Reduced fuel economy: 0W-20 oil is specified to improve fuel efficiency, and using a thicker oil will reduce that benefit.
When it might be acceptable
- Emergency situations: In an emergency where you can't find 0W-20, using 5W-30 is a short-term solution, but you should switch to the correct oil at your next oil change.
- Hot climates or hard use: Some experts suggest that in very hot climates or for heavy-duty use like towing, a thicker oil like 5W-30 might provide better protection, as the same engine models sometimes recommend 5W-30 in different regions of the world.
Best practice
- Consult your owner's manual: Always use the oil viscosity specified in your car's owner's manual for the best performance and protection.
- Change to the correct oil: If you've used the wrong oil, change it to the correct 0W-20 at the next opportunity.
What kind of oil does a 3.7 L V6 take?
Capacities and Specifications - 3.7L
| Name | Specification |
|---|---|
| Recommended motor oil (U.S.): Motorcraft® SAE 5W-20 Premium Synthetic Blend Motor Oil XO-5W20-QSP | WSS-M2C945-A |
| Recommended motor oil (Canada): Motorcraft® SAE 5W-20 Super Premium Motor Oil CXO-5W20-LSP12 | WSS-M2C945-A |
What oil does a Subaru BRZ take?
A Subaru BRZ takes 0W-20 full-synthetic motor oil for optimal performance, according to Subaru Parts Online and Sport Subaru South. While some older models might have allowed a temporary substitute like 5W-20, it is essential to use the recommended 0W-20 to protect the engine's tight oil channels. Always consult your specific owner's manual for the most accurate recommendation.
- Oil Type: Full-synthetic is the recommended type for this engine.
- Viscosity: Use 0W-20 for the best performance and protection.
- Quantity: The BRZ typically holds about 5.3 quarts of oil, but check your owner's manual for the exact capacity.
- Important Note: The engine's oil channels are tight, so using the correct viscosity is crucial to prevent damage.
- Recommendation: For the best results, use a quality 0W-20 full-synthetic oil or a genuine Subaru OEM oil formulated for the BRZ engine.
Can BRZ use 5w30?
Recommended especially for turbo-charged engines, Genuine Subaru Certified 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil provides superior protection against oil breakdown for cleaner running and long engine life.
