What type of oil does a Subaru Legacy take?
The standard oil for most Subaru Legacy models is 0W-20 synthetic motor oil, though some older engines or specific climates may call for 5W-30. Always verify with your owner’s manual or the oil fill cap on your engine to be certain.
Oil types by engine and year
Because the Legacy has evolved across generations, oil viscosity and specification can vary by engine code and climate. The following guide highlights the most common options you may encounter, with the default assumption that newer models favor lightweight synthetic grades.
- 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil — the typical recommendation for most recent Legacy models (including recent 2.5L and newer FB/EJ-family engines). This grade supports fuel economy and reliable cold-start protection and should meet the API SN or newer and ILSAC GF-5 or newer specs.
- 5W-30 full synthetic motor oil — used on older Legacy engines (such as some EJ-series configurations) or in climates where the manual specifies a heavier grade. If your manual calls for 5W-30, use that grade instead of 0W-20.
In practice, the exact specification depends on your engine code, model year, and local climate. Always confirm with the owner’s manual or the oil-cap label for the precise grade and spec.
How to confirm the exact oil for your Legacy
To be sure you’re using the correct oil, check the owner’s manual for the recommended viscosity and specification, inspect the oil fill cap on the engine for the grade, and note your engine code (for example, EJ or FB). If you’re unsure, ask a Subaru dealer or a qualified mechanic to verify before an oil change.
Summary
Across most recent Subaru Legacy models, 0W-20 synthetic oil is the standard recommendation, with 5W-30 reserved for older engines or when specifically advised by the manual. Always follow the exact guidance in your manual or on the engine oil cap, and use a reputable brand that meets the required API/ILSAC specifications. Regular oil changes with the correct grade help maintain performance and longevity of your Legacy.
What kind of oil do I need for a Subaru Legacy?
Subaru Owners' Manual specifies 4.0L of API SM (or above) grade oil. Under general driving conditions, the Owner's Manual specifies three options for engine oil viscosity, SAE 5W-30 (preferred), 10W-30 and 10W-40. 10W-30 was used here (shown) due to climate conditions and relatively high mileage of this vehicle.
What kind of oil does a 2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5 take?
For example, a Subaru Legacy produced between 2013 and 2021 will need 0W-20 synthetic oil. By contrast, any Subaru Legacy produced between 2005 and '10, these models will use synthetic 5W-30.
Can I put 5W-30 instead of 0W20 on my Subaru Outback?
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 2015 Subaru Legacy 3.6 take?
The correct oil for a 2015 Subaru Legacy 3.6L is 5W-30 full synthetic oil. The recommended oil capacity is approximately 6.9 quarts when replacing the filter. It is important to use a synthetic oil for optimal engine protection.
- Oil Type: 5W-30 Full Synthetic Oil
- Oil Capacity: Approximately 6.9 quarts (with filter change)
- Important Note: Always use a new oil drain plug washer and an OEM drain plug.
