When it comes to keeping your Subaru running smoothly, the oil you choose plays a big role. Think of oil as the lifeblood of your car’s engine—it’s crucial for reducing friction, cleaning, and cooling vital parts.
Choosing the right oil isn’t just about picking any off the shelf; you need one that meets your car’s specific needs and keeps it purring like a satisfied cat lounging in sunlight. Nobody wants an oil that’s a square peg in a round hole.
Subarus have unique Boxer engines that require particular oils to maintain performance and efficiency. These engines typically need oils that can handle a great range of temperatures and offer maximum protection against wear.
Factors such as viscosity (which tells you how well the oil flows), and whether it’s synthetic or conventional, will all influence your choice. Getting these details right can make a huge difference in keeping your engine happy and your fuel bill less daunting.
The main types available today are synthetic, synthetic blend, and conventional oil.
Before you head to the checkout, remember to check the Subaru manual for recommended oil types and viscosity ratings. It’s like checking a recipe before you start cooking. You wouldn’t want to start on a cake without knowing the difference between a tablespoon and a teaspoon, right?
We’ve spent numerous hours investigating and testing to find the oils that give Subaru engines the extra TLC they deserve.
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Best Oils for Subaru
We’ve got a fantastic lineup of oils perfect for keeping your Subaru running smoothly. In this list, you’ll discover top options that we’ve reviewed and found to be reliable. Let’s dive in and find the right oil for your car together!
Subaru Synthetic Motor Oil
It’s a solid choice for any Subaru owner aiming to enhance engine performance and longevity.
Pros
- Designed specifically for Subaru models
- Ensures smooth engine operation
- Top-notch quality
Cons
- Higher price compared to alternatives
- Not directly produced by Subaru
- Limited to specific Subaru car models
We’ve spent countless hours driving Subaru vehicles, and using this oil felt like giving our engines a treat. Its viscosity is just right for a range of Subaru models.
Whether cruising in a Crosstrek or navigating urban streets in a Legacy, the engine runs effortlessly.
What makes this oil stand out is its tailored fit for Subaru vehicles. It’s almost as if it was made knowing each engine’s needs. A unique quality that leaves us feeling confident about its long-term benefits. Plus, knowing it’s designed specially for our brand of car gives a reassuring peace of mind.
On occasion, the cost may seem high compared to others. Some might frown knowing it’s not directly from Subaru but crafted by Idemitsu. We noticed its compatibility issues with non-Subaru vehicles as a minor setback. Overall, it’s an investment in how your Subaru runs, making the higher price worthwhile when smooth rides and engine longevity are the priority.
Subaru OEM 5W-30 Synthetic Oil
This oil is perfect for anyone looking to maintain their Subaru’s performance with OEM quality.
Pros
- Keeps the engine running smooth and quiet
- Reliable performance for Subaru models
- Genuine Subaru part ensures fit and functionality
Cons
- Higher price point than some alternatives
- Not the best packaging for storage
- Limited to Subaru vehicles only
Our experience with “Subaru OEM 5W-30 Synthetic Oil” was impressively smooth. It made our Subaru purr like a content cat, keeping the engine noise down to a gentle hum. The oil’s consistency and performance proved why sticking with genuine parts can be an advantage.
Using this oil felt like giving our Subaru a little spa day. It handled long drives effortlessly, showcasing its ability to maintain engine health. The reliability factor is high with this OEM product, as it fits seamlessly with several Subaru models. It’s like slipping into a well-fitted glove.
On the flip side, the price might make some folks raise an eyebrow. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but quality and compatibility come with a cost. Also, once the bottle is opened, storing it isn’t exactly a breeze. This might not be the best fit for non-Subaru users, but for us, it was just what the mechanic ordered.
Subaru High Performance Gear Oil
This gear oil is perfect for Subaru owners who want smoother shifts and better performance.
Pros
- Excellent compatibility with Subaru transmissions and differentials
- Provides a noticeable improvement in shift smoothness
- Manufactured in the United States, ensuring high quality
Cons
- Higher price for only one quart
- Takes some time to warm up for better shifting
- Misleading packaging information might confuse
We tried out the Subaru High Performance Gear Oil and found that it makes a real difference in how our Subaru shifts. The improvement was especially noticeable after replacing the old oil. It’s clear that this oil is made to meet Subaru’s standards, offering reliability and performance.
Installing it was straightforward. We noticed it took a bit of driving for the oil to reach its full potential in terms of shift smoothness. It’s thinner than some alternatives, which makes it feel modern and efficient.
However, the price tag might make some people hesitate, especially since the packaging can be misleading, showing a larger quantity than what’s provided.
Overall, this is a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their Subaru’s transmission performance. It’s a trustworthy product that won’t let you down if compatibility and quality are priorities for you.
Genuine Subaru Oil 0W20 Synthetic
For Subaru owners looking to get the best out of their engine, this oil is a top pick for its quality blend and engine protection.
Pros
- Keeps the engine cleaner and running smoother
- Extended engine life thanks to great protection
- Helps reduce buildup of deposits and varnish
Cons
- Delivery can be slow sometimes
- Limited to newer Subaru models
- Might be a bit pricey compared to other options
Our experience using the Genuine Subaru Oil was quite positive. We noticed right away that our engine was running with a bit more zest. The oil lives up to its promise of maintaining cleanliness inside the engine, which is always a relief, especially for us Subaru fanatics who plan on keeping our rides for many years.
Pouring in this oil felt like a premium treatment for our Subaru. The increased protection gave us peace of mind. The car performed well, without any hiccups, keeping those pesky engine deposits at bay. It’s like a spa day for your car!
The only downside is waiting for the oil to arrive, since delivery isn’t the fastest. And for those without a newer model, it’s essential to double-check compatibility.
It’s a fine balance—it might cost a bit more than some alternatives, yet for the genuine quality, we think it’s worth every penny.
Subaru Oil Change Kit
This oil change kit is ideal for those who want to keep their Subaru running smoothly with minimal fuss.
Pros
- Comprehensive kit with oil, filter, and gasket
- Designed for multiple Subaru models
- High-quality synthetic oil
Cons
- Slightly pricey compared to generic brands
- Gasket might be missing
- Only fits specific Subaru models
We’ve just finished an oil change using the Subaru Oil Change Kit. It was a breeze with everything included, from oil to filter and gasket. Gone are the days of running around for separate parts.
Speaking of quality, this kit shines with genuine Subaru parts, ensuring compatibility and high performance. It’s a relief to rely on a brand we trust.
Though the oil may cost a bit more, you get the peace of mind that it’s crafted for Subaru engines. We felt the difference in how smoothly our Subaru Impreza ran after using this.
The kit is a fantastic fit for a wide range of Subaru models. Whether you own a Forester, an Outback, or an Impreza, this kit has you covered.
But a friendly heads-up: double-check your model’s fitment, as it doesn’t work with every engine type. We learned that the hard way when the kit wasn’t compatible with a friend’s turbo model.
For a quick and effective oil change, it’s a thumbs-up from us. Despite needing to replace the gasket separately occasionally, the ease and dependability of this kit make it worth considering for anyone keen on keeping their Subaru in tip-top shape.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right oil for your Subaru is like finding the perfect shoe; it’s got to fit just right!
We need to keep in mind several factors that make oil purchasing a breeze rather than a blunder. Let’s get cracking with a few tips.
Oil Type
Start by checking what type of oil your Subaru’s owner’s manual recommends. Usually, it will be synthetic, conventional, or a blend.
Each type handles temperature and pressure differently. So, it’s vital to choose the right one for optimal performance!
Viscosity Rating
The viscosity, or thickness, of the oil, is shown by numbers like 5W-30. We’ll need to match this with your engine’s requirements.
It ensures the oil flows well whether it’s hot or cold outside.
Performance Additives
Look for oils with additives like detergents, dispersants, and anti-wear agents. They help keep the engine clean and running smoothly.
It’s like giving your vehicle a little spa treatment!
Oil Change Interval
Consider how often you plan to change the oil. Some oils are better suited for longer intervals, meaning fewer trips to the mechanic.
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