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 |
Less oil than before. The 2020 2.5L takes 4.4 qt, down from 5.1 qt in 2015–2019. One 5-quart jug covers either engine.
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.