Quick answer: the 2012–2013 Subaru Forester 2.5L takes 5.5 US qt (5.2 L) of 0W-20 synthetic with a filter change. The 2.5XT turbo takes 4.4 US qt (4.2 L) of 5W-30 synthetic.
| Engine | Oil capacity (with filter) | Oil type |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5L 4-cylinder (non-turbo) | 5.5 US qt (5.2 L) | 0W-20 synthetic |
| 2.5L turbo (XT) | 4.4 US qt (4.2 L) | 5W-30 synthetic |
The turbo takes less oil but a thicker grade.
Oil capacity by year
| Model year | Non-turbo | Turbo |
|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 5.5 US qt (5.2 L) | 4.4 US qt (4.2 L) |
| 2013 | 5.5 US qt (5.2 L) | 4.4 US qt (4.2 L) |
We read the engine oil table in the “Specifications” chapter of every model-year manual listed below.
Recommended oil type
Non-turbo: 0W-20 synthetic is the required oil. If it is not available, 5W-30 conventional oil may be used to top up, but change back to 0W-20 synthetic at the next oil change.
5W-30 synthetic is the required oil for the turbo engine (5W-30 or 5W-40 conventional only to top up).
How to reset the oil life reminder on the 2012–2013 Subaru Forester
See also: Oil life reset by brand.
On models with a multi-function display, Subaru’s manuals set the oil reminder in the display’s setting screen: open the maintenance settings, select Engine Oil, set the date and distance of the reminder with the steering-wheel control switches, and select Set; Update returns the notification distance to the default. Older models without this menu have no oil reminder to reset.
Oil change tips
- Non-turbo: a 5-quart jug plus one quart.
- Subaru says each quantity is only a guideline. After refilling, check the level with the dipstick: adding oil from the L to the F mark takes about 1.1 US qt (1.0 L).
Sources and how we checked
All capacities and oil grades on this page come from Subaru’s owner’s manuals, published on Subaru of America’s official Vehicle Resources page (“Specifications” chapter, engine oil table):
If your owner’s manual shows something different, follow your manual and tell us.
Last checked: October 26, 2026.
FAQ
How much oil does a 2012–2013 Forester take?
5.5 US qt (5.2 L) for the 2.5L and 4.4 US qt (4.2 L) for the turbo, with a filter change.
What oil does a 2012–2013 Forester use?
0W-20 synthetic (non-turbo) or 5W-30 synthetic (turbo).
Can I use 5W-30 in the non-turbo?
Only to top up; change back to 0W-20 synthetic at the next oil change.
Is a 5-quart jug enough?
Not for the non-turbo, which takes 5.5 quarts.
Where is the oil data in the manual?
In the Specifications chapter, engine oil table.
Newer Forester? See the 2014–2018 Subaru Forester.