Keeping your 2014 Subaru Forester running smoothly for years to come boils down to a few simple acts of maintenance, and perhaps the most important one is a regular oil change. It’s the lifeblood of your vehicle’s engine, reducing friction, managing heat, and keeping internal components clean. For your Forester, using the correct oil isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a key ingredient for ensuring the long-term health and performance of its unique Boxer engine.
This engine layout, with its horizontally-opposed pistons, is part of what gives your Subaru its characteristic low center of gravity and smooth operation. However, it also means that using the right type and amount of oil is crucial. Getting this simple detail wrong can lead to unnecessary wear, reduced fuel economy, and potentially costly repairs down the line. Let’s clear up any confusion and give you the confidence to handle your next oil change, whether you’re doing it yourself or just want to be an informed customer at the shop.
What Kind of Oil Does a 2014 Subaru Forester Need?
The official recommendation from Subaru is clear: you should use synthetic 0W-20 oil that meets the API SN or later service classification. This specification is found on the bottle’s label. Nearly all 2014 Foresters, including the 2.5i, 2.5i Premium, 2.5i Limited, and 2.0XT Touring and Limited models, require this grade.
You might be wondering what those numbers and letters mean. The “0W” refers to the oil’s viscosity, or thickness, in cold weather (the “W” stands for winter). A 0W oil is very fluid when cold, allowing it to circulate quickly through the engine upon startup, which is critical for protecting vital components. The “20” refers to the oil’s viscosity at the engine’s normal operating temperature. This thinner oil creates less internal friction, which helps your Forester achieve its best possible fuel economy.
While conventional oil was an option for older vehicles, Subaru strongly recommends and factory-fills their modern engines with synthetic oil. Synthetic oil offers superior protection against extreme temperatures, better engine cleanliness, and improved longevity compared to conventional oil. Sticking with a full synthetic 0W-20 is the best way to care for your engine.
How Much Oil Does Your Forester’s Engine Hold?
When you’re performing a complete oil and filter change, the total capacity for the 2014 Forester with the 2.5L FB25B engine is approximately 5.1 quarts (4.8 liters). If your Forester is equipped with the more powerful 2.0L turbocharged engine (the 2.0XT model), it holds a slightly different amount at approximately 5.4 quarts (5.1 liters).
It’s important to note that this is the total capacity after a drain and filter replacement. When you add new oil, you should start with a little less than the full amount—about 4.5 to 5 quarts for the 2.5L engine. Then, run the engine for a minute, let it settle, and check the dipstick, adding the remaining oil in small increments until you reach the “Full” mark. Overfilling can be just as harmful as underfilling, as it can cause foaming and increased pressure within the engine.
The Importance of a High-Quality Oil Filter
An oil change isn’t complete without a new oil filter. The oil filter’s job is to trap contaminants and debris that accumulate in the oil as the engine runs. Using a cheap, low-quality filter can undermine the benefits of your fresh synthetic oil. It’s always a good practice to use a filter that meets or exceeds Subaru’s specifications.
Many owners and technicians prefer OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Subaru filters, as they are designed specifically for your engine’s flow requirements and come with a built-in drain-back valve that helps prevent the oil from draining out of the filter when the engine is off. This provides faster oil pressure to critical engine parts on a cold start. If you choose an aftermarket filter, stick with reputable brands to ensure you’re getting comparable quality and protection.
A Simple Guide to Checking Your Oil Level
It’s a great habit to check your oil level yourself about once a month. This simple check can alert you to potential problems, like a slow leak or an engine that’s burning oil, before they become serious. Here’s how to do it properly:
First, park your Forester on a level surface and turn off the engine. Wait at least five to ten minutes to allow the oil to drain back down into the oil pan. Pop the hood and locate the dipstick, which usually has a bright yellow handle for easy identification.
Pull the dipstick out completely and wipe it clean with a rag or paper towel. Re-insert it all the way back into its tube, then pull it out again to get an accurate reading. Look at the end of the dipstick; you will see two marks indicating “Low” and “Full.” The oil level should be somewhere between these two marks. Ideally, it will be at or very near the “Full” mark. If it’s low, add a small amount of the recommended 0W-20 synthetic oil, wait a minute for it to settle, and recheck until the level is correct.
Signs Your Forester Might Be Due for an Oil Change
While following the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual is the best practice, being aware of your vehicle’s behavior is also important. Modern Subarus have an oil change indicator light on the dashboard, but it’s not solely based on mileage. It uses an algorithm that considers your driving habits, such as trip length, engine load, and temperature.
If you do a lot of stop-and-go city driving, short trips where the engine doesn’t fully warm up, or frequent towing, your driving conditions are considered “severe.” In these cases, you may need to change your oil more frequently than the standard 6,000-mile interval. Other signs to watch for include the engine sounding louder or more “ticky” than usual, dark and gritty oil on the dipstick, or the illuminated check engine light, which could be related to oil pressure issues.
Keeping Your Subaru’s Heart Healthy
Caring for your 2014 Subaru Forester is a straightforward process, and it all starts with the basics. By using the recommended synthetic 0W-20 oil, ensuring you have the correct 5.1-quart capacity (for the 2.5L engine) after a change, and pairing it with a quality filter, you are providing the best possible care for the unique Boxer engine. Making a monthly habit of checking the oil level takes just a minute but offers invaluable peace of mind. Sticking to this simple routine is the most effective way to ensure your dependable Forester remains a trusted companion on the road for many more miles and adventures to come.