Quick answer: the 2013–2016 Subaru Impreza 2.0L takes 5.1 US qt (4.8 L) of 0W-20 synthetic with a filter change; the 2012 manual lists 5.3 US qt (5.0 L).
| Engine | Oil capacity (with filter) | Oil type |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0L 4-cylinder (FB20) | 5.1 US qt (4.8 L); 5.3 US qt (5.0 L) in 2012 | 0W-20 synthetic |
Keep an extra quart. Both figures are just over 5 quarts.
Oil capacity by year
| Model year | Oil capacity |
|---|---|
| 2012 | 5.3 US qt (5.0 L) |
| 2013 | 5.1 US qt (4.8 L) |
| 2014 | 5.1 US qt (4.8 L) |
| 2015 | 5.1 US qt (4.8 L) |
| 2016 | 5.1 US qt (4.8 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 2012–2016 Subaru Impreza
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
- 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 Impreza owner’s manual
- 2013 Impreza owner’s manual
- 2014 Impreza owner’s manual
- 2015 Impreza owner’s manual
- 2016 Impreza 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 2012–2016 Impreza take?
5.1 US qt (4.8 L) with a filter change (5.3 qt in the 2012 manual).
What oil does an Impreza use?
0W-20 synthetic.
Can I use 5W-30?
Only to top up; change back to 0W-20 at the next oil change.
Is a 5-quart jug enough?
Not quite; keep an extra quart.
Does this cover the WRX?
No. See the Subaru WRX pages.
Newer Impreza? See the 2017–2023 Subaru Impreza.