Keep Your Subaru Thriving: Top Engine Oil Care Tips

Which engine oil is the best?

Should you run synthetic oil in your Subaru all-wheel-drive vehicle? When should you change your oil, how often should you check your oil, and which oil is best for your Subaru Forester, Outback Crosstrek, or other model? I will answer those questions here. 

Below, I'll answer those four common oil-related questions with expert insights from Consumer Reports experts. 

Oil is not just a lubricant for your engine; it's its lifeblood. The right oil is not a matter of preference, it's a vital protection for your engine. Use the right oil, and your engine will reward you with a long and healthy life. Neglect it, and you'll be facing a hefty repair bill or, worse, a stranded situation. 

Should I run synthetic oil in my Subaru Boxer engine?

Consumer Reports' resident car mechanic John Ibbotson provides valuable advice, "Only if your manufacturer calls for it because it can cost from two to four times as much as conventional oil." He adds that most recent models use synthetic.

What oil does Subaru recommend for the newer Outback, Forester, Crosstrek, or other model? 

For newer Outback, Forester, Crosstrek, and other new Subaru models, Subaru says, "Synthetic oil, specifically 0W-20, is highly recommended for optimal engine performance and protection."

Synthetic oil is not just a fancy upgrade, it's a smart investment in your Subaru's engine longevity. It's designed to resist breakdown and withstand high temperatures, which means it lasts longer and keeps your engine healthier. If you want your Subaru to last the longest, you should use 0W-20 Synthetic oil. 

Does Synthetic oil improve your fuel mileage? Check out my report here. 

But he advises that there are situations where that resistance to breaking down can help prolong the life of your engine, making the upgrade from conventional oil worthwhile.

Ibbotson says, "If you make lots of short trips, standard motor oil may never get warm enough to burn off moisture and impurities, which means it may not be doing enough to protect your engine."

Another consideration is your lifestyle. 

"If you live in a region with very cold winters or very hot summers, or if you use your vehicle for towing or hauling heavy material, synthetic oil is your best bet," he says. "While synthetic generally holds up better and can serve for more miles, it is equally important to not extend oil changes beyond the time interval recommended by the manufacturer, typically six months or a year if it is a motor that is not driven many miles or on many short trips."

When should I change the motor oil, and how often should I change it?

Your Subaru's engine oil needs to be changed when it's either worn or aged out. The oil degrades from heat and pressure, collecting harmful particles that need to be removed. Plus, oil breaks down over time, even when a car is parked for an extended period. By staying on top of these changes, you're taking a proactive step in ensuring your Subaru's engine health.

CR says the "every 3,000 miles or every three months" rule is outdated because of engine and oil advances. Many automakers have oil-change intervals at 7,500 or even 10,000 miles and six or 12 months.

Don't wait that long.

Subaru says, "Synthetic engine oil should be changed every 6,000 miles when you drive your Subaru frequently since the oil eventually wears and becomes less effective due to heat and friction caused during engine operation."

How often should I check the oil level?

Regular oil checks are not just a chore, they're a crucial part of maintaining your Subaru's engine health. CR's mechanics strongly advise checking your oil at least once a month or, ideally, every other gas fill-up. It's a simple task that can prevent potential engine issues and ensure your engine's health. 

Don't assume that a new car is exempt from this maintenance chore. Consumer Reports reliability survey results have shown that even newer cars can need the oil to be topped off between changes.

What are the ten most reliable cars you can buy now?

Consumer Reports' annual surveys reveal one Subaru SUV continues to shine for reliability. Find out why the Forester is a top pick again here.

Which engine oil is the best for your Subaru?

In many newer models, the weight of the car's motor oil is printed on the cap where you add oil, and it's listed in the maintenance section of the owner's manual. "Make sure you know what's recommended or required by your automaker before you visit your mechanic so that you can control the cost of the oil they're putting in," he says.

Subaru recommends using Genuine Subaru oil and 0W-20 viscosity in all of these engines, which are designed for improved fuel economy and increased power. 5W-30 is formulated for the turbocharged engine in the WRX and WRX STI, which runs at higher temperatures. It has increased protection against breakdown and superior lubrication for optimal fuel economy. 

By following these recommendations, you can have confidence in the performance and longevity of your Subaru.

The best way to ensure your new Subaru Outback, Forester, Crosstrek, Ascent, Impreza, WRX /STI, or BRZ engine will be reliable for years to come is to remain vigilant about oil changes.

I am Denis Flierl, a top Torque News reporter since 2012. I’ve invested over 13 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role, working with every major car brand. I am an experienced Rocky Mountain Automotive Press member. You'll find my expert Subaru analysis here. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: Subaru