Quick answer: the 2012–2014 Subaru Impreza WRX takes 4.4 US qt (4.2 L) of oil with a filter change, and the WRX STI takes 4.5 US qt (4.3 L). Both require 5W-30 synthetic.
| Engine | Oil capacity (with filter) | Oil type |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5L turbo (WRX) | 4.4 US qt (4.2 L) | 5W-30 synthetic |
| 2.5L turbo (STI) | 4.5 US qt (4.3 L) | 5W-30 synthetic |
Use synthetic. 10W-30, 10W-40, 5W-30 or 5W-40 conventional oil is only for topping up.
Oil capacity by year
| Model year | WRX | STI |
|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 4.4 US qt (4.2 L) | 4.5 US qt (4.3 L) |
| 2013 | 4.4 US qt (4.2 L) | 4.5 US qt (4.3 L) |
| 2014 | 4.4 US qt (4.2 L) | 4.5 US qt (4.3 L) |
We read the engine oil table in the “Specifications” chapter of every model-year manual listed below.
Recommended oil type
5W-30 synthetic is the required oil. 10W-30, 10W-40, 5W-30 or 5W-40 conventional oil may be used to top up, but change back to 5W-30 synthetic at the next oil change.
How to reset the oil life reminder on the 2012–2014 Subaru Impreza WRX and STI
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
- One 5-quart jug covers either car.
- 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):
- 2012 Impreza WRX/STI owner’s manual
- 2013 Impreza WRX/STI owner’s manual
- 2014 Impreza WRX/STI owner’s manual
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 2012–2014 WRX take?
4.4 US qt (4.2 L) with a filter change; the STI takes 4.5 US qt (4.3 L).
What oil does a 2012–2014 WRX use?
5W-30 synthetic.
Can I use 10W-30?
Only to top up; change back to 5W-30 synthetic at the next oil change.
Is a 5-quart jug enough?
Yes.
Where is the oil data?
In the Specifications chapter of the owner’s manual.
Newer WRX? See the 2015–2021 Subaru WRX and STI.