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 |
Do not use 0W-20 in the 2.0XT. The turbo requires 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.