Using 5W-30 Instead of 0W-20 in Subaru Forester
When considering using 5W-30 instead of 0W-20 in a Subaru Forester, it’s important to weigh the potential implications and understand the recommendations from various sources.
Subaru’s Official Recommendation:
The official specification for the non-turbo FB engine in the Subaru Forester is 0W-20 full synthetic. However, it’s noted that 5W-30 should be fine, especially in warmer months. Different oil brands can also make a difference in consumption, with oils designed for cars with higher mileage tending to burn off less. It’s mentioned that Valvoline MaxLife, for example, tends to burn off a bit less, and they now make a full synthetic 0W-20 MaxLife.
Local Subaru Dealer’s Input:
A user asked a local Subaru dealer about using 5W-30 oil instead of 0W-20, and the dealer mentioned that using 5W-30 oil might result in an oil light indication due to the higher pressure required to push the somewhat thicker 5W-30 oil through the system. However, it’s worth noting that this statement was criticized as being inaccurate by another user in the same forum.
Community Insights:
In various Subaru forums, users have shared their experiences and opinions on using 5W-30 instead of 0W-20. Some users have reported using 5W-30 without encountering any problems, even after driving 50,000 miles with this oil. Others have mentioned that 5W-30 is somewhat cheaper and easier for shops to maintain stocks of, and it is used on turbo-engines, but it works fine with non-turbo engines as well. However, it’s important to note that 0W-20 is not compatible with turbo engines due to the need for cooling very hot turbos.
In conclusion, while the official specification for the non-turbo FB engine in the Subaru Forester is 0W-20 full synthetic, there are indications that using 5W-30 should be fine, especially in warmer months. However, it’s essential to consider the potential implications and consult with a trusted mechanic or dealership before making a decision.
Contents
- Will 5W 20 hurt a 0W-20 engine?
- Is it OK if I put 5W20 instead of 0w20?
- Can I use 5W-20 instead of OW 20?
- What oil should I put in my Subaru Forester?
- What can I substitute 0w20 with?
- Can you use 5W-30 in a Subaru Forester?
- What is the difference between Subaru 5w30 and 0w20?
- Can I use 5w30 in my Subaru?
- What oil does Subaru prefer?
- What happens if you use 5W-30 instead of 0w20?
Will 5W 20 hurt a 0W-20 engine?
If your owner’s manual says you can use either 0w-20 or 5w-20, then it is O.K..But if your factory manual says only 0w-20, do not use 5w-20 (Unless your vehicle is old & out of Warranty.).
Is it OK if I put 5W20 instead of 0w20?
Simply put, no. Some engine manufactures will say that 5w20 can be installed but 0w20 is preferred, especially if the engine was manufactured before the most recent change in API standards. But most newer engines were designed with tolerances designed specifically with 0w20 being installed.
Can I use 5W-20 instead of OW 20?
Simply put, no. Some engine manufactures will say that 5w20 can be installed but 0w20 is preferred, especially if the engine was manufactured before the most recent change in API standards. But most newer engines were designed with tolerances designed specifically with 0w20 being installed.
What oil should I put in my Subaru Forester?
Subaru Oil Guide:
| Model | Subaru Oil Required | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Subaru Forester 2002 – 2010 | 5W-30 Conventional Oil | 4.4 Quarts |
| Subaru Forester 2011 – 2021 | 0W-20 Synthetic Oil | 4.4 – 5.5 Quarts |
| Subaru Forester XT 2004 – 2010 | 5W-30 Conventional Oil | 4.4 Quarts |
| Subaru Forester XT 2011 – 2018 | 5W-30 Synthetic Oil | 4.4 – 5.4 Quarts |
What can I substitute 0w20 with?
SAE 5W-20
If SAE 0W-20 synthetic oil is not available, SAE 5W-20 conventional oil may be used. However, it must be replaced with SAE 0W-20 synthetic oil at the next oil change.
Can you use 5W-30 in a Subaru Forester?
The recommended Subaru Forester oil is best served by a 5W-30 synthetic motor oil, and thankfully, Subaru offers this as an OEM part that’s got the Subaru blessing right on it. Want to learn more about the Subaru Forester oil change?
What is the difference between Subaru 5w30 and 0w20?
What weight of Subaru Synthetic Motor Oil should be used? Subaru offers two different SAE weights that vary in viscosity. As shown below, the 5W-30 is specially formulated for turbos that run at hotter temperatures. The 0W-20 is the perfect weight for he non-turbo engine and is formulated for improved fuel economy.
Can I use 5w30 in my Subaru?
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. However, it should be replaced with synthetic oil at the next change.
What oil does Subaru prefer?
Subaru Oil Guide:
| Model | Subaru Oil Required | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Subaru Legacy & Outback XT (Turbo) 2020 – 2021 | 0W-20 Synthetic Oil | 4.8 Quarts |
| Subaru WRX 2002 – 2010 | 5W-30 Conventional Oil | 4.4 – 5 Quarts |
| Subaru WRX 2011 – 2020 | 5W-30 Synthetic Oil | 4.4 – 5.4 Quarts |
| Subaru Crosstrek 2013 – 2021 | 0W-20 Synthetic Oil | 4.4 – 5.1 Quarts |
What happens if you use 5W-30 instead of 0w20?
What happen if my car requires 0w20 and I put 5w30? Absolutely nothing. Completely. It almost literally doesn’t matter, except at the outer limits in super cold climates… and then only maybe.
