Who makes Subaru factory oil?
Subaru Genuine Motor Oil, the official lubricant endorsed for Subaru engines, is not produced by Subaru itself. The oil is manufactured by lubricant partners under Subaru’s specifications, with Idemitsu Kosan identified as a primary supplier in several markets. The exact maker can vary by region and product grade.
What Subaru Genuine Motor Oil is and why it matters
Subaru designs its engines to operate with specific oil specifications that support performance, emissions, and long-term reliability. The official Subaru Genuine Motor Oil is formulated to meet Subaru’s engine requirements and is typically available in grades like 0W-20 and 5W-30, predominantly in synthetic formulations for modern engines.
Regional supply patterns
The manufacturer behind Subaru Genuine Motor Oil can differ by market. Public disclosures and packaging in several regions point to Idemitsu Kosan as a core supplier, though Subaru does not publish a single, universal contractor for all regions.
Idemitsu as a major supplier
Idemitsu Kosan is a well-known Japanese lubricant maker that has historically supplied Subaru Genuine Motor Oil for various markets, with some packaging bearing both Subaru and Idemitsu branding.
Regional variations
In North America and Europe, Subaru dealers and service centers may source Subaru Genuine Motor Oil from licensed regional partners. Packaging may carry the partner’s logo alongside Subaru branding to reflect the local supply chain.
How to verify the oil's origin on your bottle
To confirm who makes the oil you’re using, inspect the bottle and refer to Subaru’s guidance for your market. The following indicators help identify the supplier.
- Subaru Genuine Motor Oil branding on the bottle or carton.
- The logo of the actual lubricant manufacturer on the label (for example, Idemitsu).
- Viscosity and API/ILSAC grade that match your vehicle’s requirements.
- Subaru part number and product line printed on the container.
- Region or country code indicating the production site.
If you’re unsure, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a Subaru dealership for confirmation about the approved oil and its supplier for your region.
Summary
Subaru factory oil is produced by lubricant partners rather than by Subaru itself. Idemitsu Kosan has emerged as a key supplier in several markets, but the exact maker varies by region and product line. Always verify packaging details and follow Subaru’s official maintenance guidance for your locale.
What oil does Subaru use in their cars?
The Subaru oil type depends on your engine, but for newer models, 0W-20 synthetic is common for non-turbo engines, while 5W-30 synthetic is required for most newer turbocharged engines. Older models may use conventional oils like 5W-30, but many recent models also require newer, thinner oils like 0W-16. Always check your owner's manual to confirm the correct oil type for your specific vehicle year and model.
Common Subaru oil types
- 0W-20 Synthetic: Recommended for most non-turbo 4-cylinder engines in recent models.
- 5W-30 Synthetic: Required for most newer turbocharged engines and some older models.
- 5W-30 Conventional: May be used in older models (roughly 2002–2011), but should be replaced with synthetic at the next change.
- 0W-16 Synthetic: Required for some newer models like the 2025 Forester.
How to choose the right oil
- Check your owner's manual: This is the most important step to ensure you use the correct oil type for your specific vehicle.
- Consider your engine: Non-turbo engines generally use 0W-20 or 0W-16, while turbocharged engines typically require 5W-30.
- Consider your model year: Newer models require different oil types than older ones. For example, models from 2012 and newer typically require synthetic oil.
Is Mobil 1 oil made in China?
It's true that Mobil 1 oil filters are made in China (I use K&N), but I think you'll find that the synthetic oil itself is made in the USA. If you read fine print on the label, waaaay down toward the bottom it states that the oil is made in the United States.
Does Subaru use Mobil 1 oil?
Choose Mobil 1™ motor oil for your Subaru
As a bonus, it also lists automatic transmission fluid, gear oil, and other fluids if there's a match. Always consult your owner's manual for info specific to your vehicle.
Who makes the Subaru OEM?
Genuine Subaru parts, also known as OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts, are designed and manufactured by Subaru specifically for your vehicle's model and year. These are the exact parts your car was built with at the factory, which means they offer the best fit and performance possible.
