The 2019 Subaru Forester requires synthetic engine oil, with the viscosity depending on the engine option: 0W-20 for the 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine and 5W-30 for the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. Both grades should meet API SN or higher and ILSAC GF-5 or better, and oil should be full synthetic or an equivalent Subaru-approved formulation. Always check your owner's manual for the exact specification for your vehicle.
Engine-specific oil requirements
Subaru offered two engines in the 2019 Forester, and the oil specification varies by engine. The following guidelines cover the two most common configurations you might have in this model year.
2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine (FB25)
Recommended oil: full synthetic 0W-20. This viscosity supports fuel efficiency and good cold-start performance. Oil should meet API SN or higher and ILSAC GF-5 or newer. Use Subaru-approved oil or an equivalent that matches these specifications.
2.0-liter turbocharged engine (FA20DIT) optional in the XT
Recommended oil: full synthetic 5W-30. This higher-viscosity option is suited to the turbocharged setup and heat management. Oil should meet API SN or higher and ILSAC GF-5 or newer. As always, choose a product that satisfies Subaru’s specification and the owner’s manual guidance.
Note: Some markets or model revisions may have slight variations in viscosity recommendations. Always verify the exact spec in the owner’s manual or on the vehicle’s oil-cap/sticker, and follow the maintenance schedule for oil changes.
Where to source the right oil
To ensure you’re using the correct grade, stick to oils that explicitly meet Subaru’s guidelines and the API/ILSAC specifications noted above. If you’re shopping for oil, look for labels such as “0W-20 synthetic API SN/GF-5” for the 2.5L engine or “5W-30 synthetic API SN/GF-5” for the turbo engine. Using a Subaru-approved or equivalent oil helps preserve engine performance and warranty coverage.
Oil change intervals
Oil-change intervals depend on driving conditions and the manual’s guidance. In general, synthetic oil changes are recommended at longer intervals than conventional oil, but Subaru typically outlines a specific schedule in the owner’s manual. Regularly check the oil level and consult the manual to determine whether you should stick to the standard interval or shorten it under severe driving conditions (heavy city traffic, towing, extreme temperatures, etc.).
Summary
For the 2019 Subaru Forester, oil type is engine-specific: 0W-20 full synthetic for the 2.5-liter engine and 5W-30 full synthetic for the 2.0-liter turbo. Both should meet API SN or higher and ILSAC GF-5 or newer, with Subaru-approved formulations preferred. Always confirm the exact specification and maintenance interval in the owner’s manual, as configurations can vary by market and trim.
Do all subarus take 0W-20?
Most new Subaru vehicles require synthetic oil with a viscosity rating of 0W-20. However, the correct Subaru oil type varies depending on the model year, so always consult your owner's manual for the most accurate information. Next, let's compare synthetic vs. conventional oil for Subaru vehicles.
Does a Subaru Forester require synthetic oil?
Synthetic oil is designed to handle extreme temperatures and conditions, perfect for the Subaru Forester's versatile and adventurous nature. The majority of recent Subaru Forester models require 0W-20 synthetic oil, though the correct Subaru Forester oil type can vary.
What oil is best for a Subaru Forester?
For most new Subaru Forester models, the preferred oil is 0W-20 synthetic, engineered to meet the demands of its versatile nature. However, it's essential to note that the correct Subaru Forester oil type may vary. For instance, non-turbo engine models require 0W-20, while turbo engine variants necessitate 5W-30.
Is 5W-30 ok for Subaru Forester?
Subaru Oil Types
What type of oil does a Subaru Forester take? The recommended Subaru Forester oil is best served by a 5W-30 synthetic motor oil, and thankfully, Subaru offers this as an OEM part that's got the Subaru blessing right on it. Want to learn more about the Subaru Forester oil change?