Category: Subaru

Quick answer: the 2025 Subaru Forester 2.5L takes 4.7 US qt (4.4 L) of 0W-16 synthetic with a filter change (4.4 US qt without the filter).

Engine	Oil capacity (with filter)	Oil type
2.5L 4-cylinder	4.7 US qt (4.4 L)	0W-16 synthetic

Oil capacity by year

Model year	Oil capacity	Oil type
2025	4.7 US qt (4.4 L)	0W-16 synthetic

We read the engine oil table in the “Specifications” chapter of every model-year manual listed below.

Recommended oil type

0W-16 synthetic is the required oil (ILSAC GF-6B). If it is not available, 0W-20 conventional oil may be used to top up, but change back to 0W-16 synthetic at the next oil change.

How to reset the oil life reminder on the 2025 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

• One 5-quart jug covers it.
• 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):

• 2025 Forester 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 2025 Forester take?

4.7 US qt (4.4 L) with a filter change.

What oil does a 2025 Forester use?

0W-16 synthetic (ILSAC GF-6B).

Can I use 0W-20 in a 2025 Forester?

Only 0W-20 conventional to top up; change to 0W-16 synthetic at the next oil change.

How much without the filter?

4.4 US qt (4.2 L).

How do I reset the oil reminder?

In the display settings, select Engine Oil and set the reminder.

Older Forester? See the 2019–2024 Subaru Forester.

Quick answer: the 2014–2018 Subaru Forester 2.5i takes 5.1 US qt (4.8 L) of 0W-20 synthetic with a filter change. The 2.0XT turbo takes 5.4 US qt (5.1 L) of 5W-30 synthetic.

Engine	Oil capacity (with filter)	Oil type
2.5L 4-cylinder (2.5i)	5.1 US qt (4.8 L)	0W-20 synthetic
2.0L turbo (2.0XT)	5.4 US qt (5.1 L)	5W-30 synthetic

Oil capacity by year

Model year	2.5i	2.0XT
2014	5.1 US qt (4.8 L)	5.4 US qt (5.1 L)
2015	5.1 US qt (4.8 L)	5.4 US qt (5.1 L)
2016	5.1 US qt (4.8 L)	5.4 US qt (5.1 L)
2017	5.1 US qt (4.8 L)	5.4 US qt (5.1 L)
2018	5.1 US qt (4.8 L)	5.4 US qt (5.1 L)

We read the engine oil table in the “Specifications” chapter of every model-year manual listed below.

Recommended oil type

2.5i: 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 2014–2018 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

• Both engines: 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):

• 2014 Forester owner’s manual
• 2015 Forester owner’s manual
• 2016 Forester owner’s manual
• 2017 Forester owner’s manual
• 2018 Forester 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 2014–2018 Forester take?

5.1 US qt (4.8 L) for the 2.5i and 5.4 US qt (5.1 L) for the 2.0XT, with a filter change.

What oil does a 2014–2018 Forester use?

0W-20 synthetic for the 2.5i and 5W-30 synthetic for the 2.0XT.

Is a 5-quart jug enough?

No, both engines need slightly more than 5 quarts.

Can I use 5W-30 in the 2.5i?

Only to top up; change back to 0W-20 at the next oil change.

How do I reset the oil reminder?

In the multi-function display settings (if equipped), select Engine Oil and set the reminder.

Other years: 2012–2013 · 2019–2024.

Quick answer: the 2019–2024 Subaru Forester 2.5L takes 4.4 US qt (4.2 L) of 0W-20 synthetic with a filter change.

Engine	Oil capacity (with filter)	Oil type
2.5L 4-cylinder (FB25)	4.4 US qt (4.2 L)	0W-20 synthetic

Oil capacity by year

Model year	Oil capacity	Oil type
2019	4.4 US qt (4.2 L)	0W-20 synthetic
2020	4.4 US qt (4.2 L)	0W-20 synthetic
2021	4.4 US qt (4.2 L)	0W-20 synthetic
2022	4.4 US qt (4.2 L)	0W-20 synthetic
2023	4.4 US qt (4.2 L)	0W-20 synthetic
2024	4.4 US qt (4.2 L)	0W-20 synthetic

We read the engine oil table in the “Specifications” chapter of every model-year manual listed below.

Recommended oil type

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.

How to reset the oil life reminder on the 2019–2024 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

• One 5-quart jug covers it.
• 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):

• 2019 Forester owner’s manual
• 2020 Forester owner’s manual
• 2021 Forester owner’s manual
• 2022 Forester owner’s manual
• 2023 Forester owner’s manual
• 2024 Forester 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 2019–2024 Forester take?

4.4 US qt (4.2 L) with a filter change.

What oil does a 2019–2024 Forester use?

0W-20 synthetic.

Can I use 5W-30?

Only to top up when 0W-20 synthetic is not available.

Is a 5-quart jug enough?

Yes.

How do I reset the oil reminder?

In the multi-function display settings, select Engine Oil and set the reminder date and distance.

Other years: 2014–2018 · 2025.

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

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):

• 2012 Forester owner’s manual
• 2013 Forester 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 2012–2013 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.

Quick answer: the 2020–2025 Subaru Legacy 2.5L takes 4.4 US qt (4.2 L) of oil with a filter change, and the 2.4L turbo (XT) takes 4.8 US qt (4.5 L). Both require 0W-20 synthetic.

Engine	Oil capacity (with filter)	Oil type
2.5L 4-cylinder	4.4 US qt (4.2 L)	0W-20 synthetic
2.4L turbo 4-cylinder (XT)	4.8 US qt (4.5 L)	0W-20 synthetic

Oil capacity by year

Model year	2.5L	2.4L turbo
2020	4.4 US qt (4.2 L)	4.8 US qt (4.5 L)
2021	4.4 US qt (4.2 L)	4.8 US qt (4.5 L)
2022	4.4 US qt (4.2 L)	4.8 US qt (4.5 L)
2023	4.4 US qt (4.2 L)	4.8 US qt (4.5 L)
2024	4.4 US qt (4.2 L)	4.8 US qt (4.5 L)
2025	4.4 US qt (4.2 L)	4.8 US qt (4.5 L)

We read the engine oil table in the “Specifications” chapter of every model-year manual listed below.

Recommended oil type

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.

How to reset the oil life reminder on the 2020–2025 Subaru Legacy

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 engine.
• 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):

• 2020 Legacy owner’s manual
• 2021 Legacy owner’s manual
• 2022 Legacy owner’s manual
• 2023 Legacy owner’s manual
• 2024 Legacy owner’s manual
• 2025 Legacy 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 2020–2025 Subaru Legacy take?

4.4 US qt (4.2 L) for the 2.5L and 4.8 US qt (4.5 L) for the 2.4L turbo, with a filter change.

What oil does a 2020–2025 Legacy use?

0W-20 synthetic for both engines.

Does the 2.4 turbo use different oil?

No. The manuals list 0W-20 synthetic for both engines.

Can I use 5W-30?

Only to top up when 0W-20 synthetic is not available.

How do I reset the oil reminder?

In the multi-function display settings, select Engine Oil and set the reminder date and distance.

Older Legacy? See the 2015–2019 Subaru Legacy.

Quick answer: the 2013–2014 Subaru Legacy 2.5L takes 5.1 US qt (4.8 L) of 0W-20 synthetic with a filter change; the 2012 2.5L takes 4.4 US qt (4.2 L) of 5W-30. The 3.6R six takes 6.9 US qt (6.5 L) of 5W-30. The 2012 Legacy 2.5GT turbo takes 4.5 US qt (4.3 L).

Engine	Oil capacity (with filter)	Oil type
2.5L 4-cylinder (2012)	4.4 US qt (4.2 L)	5W-30
2.5L 4-cylinder (2013–2014)	5.1 US qt (4.8 L)	0W-20 synthetic
3.6L 6-cylinder (3.6R)	6.9 US qt (6.5 L)	5W-30
2.5L turbo (2.5GT, 2012)	4.5 US qt (4.3 L)	5W-30 synthetic

Oil capacity by year

Model year	2.5L	3.6R
2012	4.4 US qt (4.2 L)	6.9 US qt (6.5 L)
2013	5.1 US qt (4.8 L)	6.9 US qt (6.5 L)
2014	5.1 US qt (4.8 L)	6.9 US qt (6.5 L)

We read the engine oil table in the “Specifications” chapter of every model-year manual listed below.

Recommended oil type

2.5L (2013–2014): 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.

2.5L (2012): Subaru says the engine is designed to use 5W-30 conventional oil; 5W-30 synthetic may be used.

3.6L six: Subaru says the engine is designed to use 5W-30 conventional oil, with 5W-30 synthetic allowed for optimum performance (10W-30 or 10W-40 conventional only to top up).

How to reset the oil life reminder on the 2012–2014 Subaru Legacy

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

• 2.5L: a 5-quart jug is just short for 2013–2014; buy one extra quart.
• 3.6R: a 5-quart jug plus two quarts.
• 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 Legacy and Outback owner’s manual
• 2013 Legacy and Outback owner’s manual
• 2014 Legacy and Outback 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 2013–2014 Subaru Legacy 2.5 take?

5.1 US qt (4.8 L) with a filter change.

How much oil does a 2012 Legacy 2.5 take?

4.4 US qt (4.2 L).

What oil does a 2012–2014 Legacy use?

0W-20 synthetic for the 2013–2014 2.5L; 5W-30 for the 2012 2.5L and the 3.6R.

How much oil does the 3.6R take?

6.9 US qt (6.5 L) of 5W-30.

Can I use 5W-30 in a 2013+ 2.5L?

Only to top up when 0W-20 synthetic is not available; change back to 0W-20 at the next oil change.

Newer Legacy? See the 2015–2019 Subaru Legacy.

Quick answer: the 2015–2019 Subaru Legacy 2.5i takes 5.1 US qt (4.8 L) of 0W-20 synthetic with a filter change. The 3.6R six takes 6.9 US qt (6.5 L) of 5W-30.

Engine	Oil capacity (with filter)	Oil type
2.5L 4-cylinder (2.5i)	5.1 US qt (4.8 L)	0W-20 synthetic
3.6L 6-cylinder (3.6R)	6.9 US qt (6.5 L)	5W-30

Oil capacity by year

Model year	2.5i	3.6R
2015	5.1 US qt (4.8 L)	6.9 US qt (6.5 L)
2016	5.1 US qt (4.8 L)	6.9 US qt (6.5 L)
2017	5.1 US qt (4.8 L)	6.9 US qt (6.5 L)
2018	5.1 US qt (4.8 L)	6.9 US qt (6.5 L)
2019	5.1 US qt (4.8 L)	6.9 US qt (6.5 L)

We read the engine oil table in the “Specifications” chapter of every model-year manual listed below.

Recommended oil type

2.5i: 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.

3.6L six: Subaru says the engine is designed to use 5W-30 conventional oil, with 5W-30 synthetic allowed for optimum performance (10W-30 or 10W-40 conventional only to top up).

How to reset the oil life reminder on the 2015–2019 Subaru Legacy

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

• 2.5i: a 5-quart jug plus a few ounces.
• 3.6R: a 5-quart jug plus two quarts.
• 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):

• 2015 Legacy and Outback owner’s manual
• 2016 Legacy and Outback owner’s manual
• 2017 Legacy and Outback owner’s manual
• 2018 Legacy and Outback owner’s manual
• 2019 Legacy and Outback 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 2015–2019 Subaru Legacy take?

5.1 US qt (4.8 L) for the 2.5i and 6.9 US qt (6.5 L) for the 3.6R, with a filter change.

What oil does a 2015–2019 Legacy 2.5i use?

0W-20 synthetic.

What oil does the 3.6R use?

5W-30.

Is a 5-quart jug enough for the 2.5i?

Almost: it takes 5.1 quarts, so keep an extra quart.

How do I reset the oil reminder?

In the multi-function display settings, select Engine Oil and set the reminder date and distance.

Other years: 2012–2014 · 2020–2025.

Quick answer: the 2015–2019 Subaru Outback 2.5i takes 5.1 US qt (4.8 L) of 0W-20 synthetic with a filter change. The 3.6R six takes 6.9 US qt (6.5 L) of 5W-30.

Engine	Oil capacity (with filter)	Oil type
2.5L 4-cylinder (2.5i)	5.1 US qt (4.8 L)	0W-20 synthetic
3.6L 6-cylinder (3.6R)	6.9 US qt (6.5 L)	5W-30

Oil capacity by year

Model year	2.5i	3.6R
2015	5.1 US qt (4.8 L)	6.9 US qt (6.5 L)
2016	5.1 US qt (4.8 L)	6.9 US qt (6.5 L)
2017	5.1 US qt (4.8 L)	6.9 US qt (6.5 L)
2018	5.1 US qt (4.8 L)	6.9 US qt (6.5 L)
2019	5.1 US qt (4.8 L)	6.9 US qt (6.5 L)

We read the engine oil table in the “Specifications” chapter of every model-year manual listed below.

Recommended oil type

2.5i: 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.

3.6L six: Subaru says the engine is designed to use 5W-30 conventional oil, with 5W-30 synthetic allowed for optimum performance (10W-30 or 10W-40 conventional only to top up).

How to reset the oil life reminder on the 2015–2019 Subaru Outback

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

• 2.5i: a 5-quart jug plus a few ounces.
• 3.6R: a 5-quart jug plus two quarts.
• 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):

• 2015 Legacy and Outback owner’s manual
• 2016 Legacy and Outback owner’s manual
• 2017 Legacy and Outback owner’s manual
• 2018 Legacy and Outback owner’s manual
• 2019 Legacy and Outback 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 2015–2019 Subaru Outback take?

5.1 US qt (4.8 L) for the 2.5i and 6.9 US qt (6.5 L) for the 3.6R, with a filter change.

What oil does a 2015–2019 Outback 2.5i use?

0W-20 synthetic.

What oil does the 3.6R use?

5W-30.

Is a 5-quart jug enough for the 2.5i?

Almost: it takes 5.1 quarts, so keep an extra quart.

How do I reset the oil reminder?

In the multi-function display settings, select Engine Oil and set the reminder date and distance.

Other years: 2012–2014 · 2020–2025.

Quick answer: the 2020–2025 Subaru Outback 2.5L takes 4.4 US qt (4.2 L) of oil with a filter change, and the 2.4L turbo (XT) takes 4.8 US qt (4.5 L). Both require 0W-20 synthetic.

Engine	Oil capacity (with filter)	Oil type
2.5L 4-cylinder	4.4 US qt (4.2 L)	0W-20 synthetic
2.4L turbo 4-cylinder (XT)	4.8 US qt (4.5 L)	0W-20 synthetic

Oil capacity by year

Model year	2.5L	2.4L turbo
2020	4.4 US qt (4.2 L)	4.8 US qt (4.5 L)
2021	4.4 US qt (4.2 L)	4.8 US qt (4.5 L)
2022	4.4 US qt (4.2 L)	4.8 US qt (4.5 L)
2023	4.4 US qt (4.2 L)	4.8 US qt (4.5 L)
2024	4.4 US qt (4.2 L)	4.8 US qt (4.5 L)
2025	4.4 US qt (4.2 L)	4.8 US qt (4.5 L)

We read the engine oil table in the “Specifications” chapter of every model-year manual listed below.

Recommended oil type

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.

How to reset the oil life reminder on the 2020–2025 Subaru Outback

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 engine.
• 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):

• 2020 Outback owner’s manual
• 2021 Outback owner’s manual
• 2022 Outback owner’s manual
• 2023 Outback owner’s manual
• 2024 Outback owner’s manual
• 2025 Outback 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 2020–2025 Subaru Outback take?

4.4 US qt (4.2 L) for the 2.5L and 4.8 US qt (4.5 L) for the 2.4L turbo, with a filter change.

What oil does a 2020–2025 Outback use?

0W-20 synthetic for both engines.

Does the 2.4 turbo use different oil?

No. The manuals list 0W-20 synthetic for both engines.

Can I use 5W-30?

Only to top up when 0W-20 synthetic is not available.

How do I reset the oil reminder?

In the multi-function display settings, select Engine Oil and set the reminder date and distance.

Older Outback? See the 2015–2019 Subaru Outback.

Quick answer: the 2013–2014 Subaru Outback 2.5L takes 5.1 US qt (4.8 L) of 0W-20 synthetic with a filter change; the 2012 2.5L takes 4.4 US qt (4.2 L) of 5W-30. The 3.6R six takes 6.9 US qt (6.5 L) of 5W-30.

Engine	Oil capacity (with filter)	Oil type
2.5L 4-cylinder (2012)	4.4 US qt (4.2 L)	5W-30
2.5L 4-cylinder (2013–2014)	5.1 US qt (4.8 L)	0W-20 synthetic
3.6L 6-cylinder (3.6R)	6.9 US qt (6.5 L)	5W-30

Oil capacity by year

Model year	2.5L	3.6R
2012	4.4 US qt (4.2 L)	6.9 US qt (6.5 L)
2013	5.1 US qt (4.8 L)	6.9 US qt (6.5 L)
2014	5.1 US qt (4.8 L)	6.9 US qt (6.5 L)

We read the engine oil table in the “Specifications” chapter of every model-year manual listed below.

Recommended oil type

2.5L (2013–2014): 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.

2.5L (2012): Subaru says the engine is designed to use 5W-30 conventional oil; 5W-30 synthetic may be used.

3.6L six: Subaru says the engine is designed to use 5W-30 conventional oil, with 5W-30 synthetic allowed for optimum performance (10W-30 or 10W-40 conventional only to top up).

How to reset the oil life reminder on the 2012–2014 Subaru Outback

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

• 2.5L: a 5-quart jug is just short for 2013–2014; buy one extra quart.
• 3.6R: a 5-quart jug plus two quarts.
• 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 Legacy and Outback owner’s manual
• 2013 Legacy and Outback owner’s manual
• 2014 Legacy and Outback 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 2013–2014 Subaru Outback 2.5 take?

5.1 US qt (4.8 L) with a filter change.

How much oil does a 2012 Outback 2.5 take?

4.4 US qt (4.2 L).

What oil does a 2012–2014 Outback use?

0W-20 synthetic for the 2013–2014 2.5L; 5W-30 for the 2012 2.5L and the 3.6R.

How much oil does the 3.6R take?

6.9 US qt (6.5 L) of 5W-30.

Can I use 5W-30 in a 2013+ 2.5L?

Only to top up when 0W-20 synthetic is not available; change back to 0W-20 at the next oil change.

Newer Outback? See the 2015–2019 Subaru Outback.