Choosing the right 5W-30 motor oil is a critical decision for any Subaru owner. The unique boxer engine design demands a high-quality lubricant that can protect against wear, manage heat, and maintain engine cleanliness for the long haul. Using the correct oil specification is not just a recommendation; it’s essential for preserving your engine’s performance and longevity.
Whether you drive a high-revving WRX, a capable Forester, or a comfortable Legacy, the oil you select plays a pivotal role. This roundup covers a spectrum of options, from the factory-recommended Genuine Subaru oil to advanced full synthetic formulas from leading brands. Our goal is to help you make an informed choice that keeps your Subaru running smoothly for years and miles to come.
Our Top Picks for Subaru 5W-30 Motor Oil
- Subaru OEM Synthetic 5W-30 Motor Oil 5 Quart
- Genuine SUBARU Oil Change Kit Filter & 6 Qts 5W30
- Genuine Subaru SOA427V1410 Oil – 5W30 Synthetic
- Valvoline High Mileage SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend
- Motul 8100 X-clean EFE 5W-30 Full Synthetic Motor Oil
- Mobil 1 Extended Performance High Mileage 5W-30
- Quaker State Full Synthetic 5W-30 Motor Oil
- Pennzoil Platinum High Mileage Full Synthetic 5W-30
- Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic SAE 5W-30 Motor Oil
Subaru OEM Synthetic 5W-30 Motor Oil 5 Quart
For Subaru owners who prioritize factory specifications, this OEM Synthetic 5W-30 oil is the direct choice. It is engineered specifically for Subaru’s boxer engines, including turbocharged models like the Forester XT and Legacy GT. This ensures compatibility and protection that meets the manufacturer’s strict standards.
Using the factory-recommended oil can provide peace of mind, knowing your engine is receiving the lubrication it was designed for. The 5-quart bottle container is a convenient size for a complete oil change on many Subaru models, making the maintenance process straightforward.
Genuine SUBARU Oil Change Kit Filter & 6 Qts 5W30
This all-in-one kit simplifies the oil change process by bundling Genuine Subaru Synthetic 5W-30 oil with a factory oil filter and a new crush washer. It is an excellent solution for 2015-2018 WRX owners, providing everything needed for a proper service in one package. The inclusion of genuine parts helps maintain the vehicle’s integrity.
The convenience of having a matched set of components saves time and eliminates the guesswork of part compatibility. It is important to note that this specific kit is designed for the WRX and does not fit the STi model, so always verify your vehicle’s requirements before purchasing.
Genuine Subaru SOA427V1410 Oil – 5W30 Synthetic
Sold as a single quart bottle, this Genuine Subaru oil is perfect for topping off your engine between changes or for completing an oil change when a 5-quart container leaves you slightly short. It offers the same formulation and quality as the larger containers, ensuring you are using the correct product specified for your vehicle.
This oil is designed to reduce loss from evaporation and burn-off, which is beneficial for maintaining proper oil levels. Its formulation also contributes to optimized fuel economy, making it a smart choice for both performance and efficiency.
Valvoline High Mileage SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend
Valvoline’s High Mileage formula with MaxLife Technology is engineered for vehicles with higher odometer readings. It provides 40% better wear protection than the industry standard, which is crucial for preserving older engines. The synthetic blend offers a balance of performance and value.
This oil includes special seal conditioners that can help reduce oil consumption and leaks, common issues in aging engines. Added detergents work to fight sludge and deposit formation, helping to clean and protect the engine internally for smoother operation.
Motul 8100 X-clean EFE 5W-30 Full Synthetic Motor Oil
Motul 8100 X-clean EFE is a premium full synthetic oil formulated for fuel economy and extended service intervals. It reduces internal engine friction to improve efficiency and supports long-drain capabilities, which can lower the overall cost of ownership. This makes it a strong option for drivers who cover many miles.
This oil is engineered for modern engines with advanced emissions controls. Its Low-SAPS (Sulfated Ash, Phosphorus, and Sulfur) chemistry helps preserve the function of particulate filters and catalytic converters, making it a suitable choice for newer Subaru models that must meet strict emissions standards.
Mobil 1 Extended Performance High Mileage 5W-30
Mobil 1 Extended Performance High Mileage is a full synthetic oil designed specifically for engines with over 75,000 miles. It is built to provide protection for up to 20,000 miles between oil changes, offering exceptional longevity and convenience for high-mileage drivers.
The Triple Action+ Formula is designed to clean, protect, and enhance engine power. It meets the latest ILSAC GF-6 standards, which include protection against low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI)—a concern in some modern turbocharged engines—and timing chain wear.
Quaker State Full Synthetic 5W-30 Motor Oil
Quaker State Full Synthetic 5W-30 is formulated to provide strong engine performance and protection against harmful deposits. It is designed for use in a wide range of engines, including modern turbocharged units and high-performance vehicles commonly favored by enthusiasts.
This oil is engineered to reduce engine friction, which can help maximize horsepower and improve overall efficiency. Sold in a convenient 3-pack of 5-quart jugs, it represents a practical bulk option for those who perform their own regular maintenance.
Pennzoil Platinum High Mileage Full Synthetic 5W-30
Pennzoil Platinum High Mileage Full Synthetic motor oil is designed to actively clean and protect engines with higher mileage. Its formulation helps to remove sludge and other engine-killing deposits that can accumulate over time, promoting smoother operation and responsiveness.
This oil provides enhanced protection for critical engine parts that are under more stress in older vehicles, such as pistons and turbochargers. For Subaru owners with vehicles that have seen many years of service, this oil can be a reliable choice for maintaining engine health.
Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic SAE 5W-30 Motor Oil
Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic offers premium protection against engine wear, heat, and deposits. It is engineered to provide outstanding performance in extreme temperatures and demanding driving conditions, which can be beneficial for Subarus used for performance driving or towing.
This oil fights sludge and deposit formation to keep the engine clean, which supports consistent performance and fuel efficiency. As a full synthetic, it provides a high level of lubrication and protection that can contribute to the long-term reliability of your vehicle’s engine.
How to Choose the Best 9W30 Oil for Your Subaru
As a Subaru owner, I know that our cars are a bit different. The boxer engine, with its horizontal layout, has unique lubrication needs. While you’ll often see 5W-30 recommended, the discussion around 9W30 oil for Subaru models is usually about a specific, high-performance product. When I’m looking for the best 9W30 oil options for Subaru models, I focus on a few key things beyond just the viscosity rating.
First and foremost, I always check for the correct API certification. For modern Subarus, you want an oil that meets the API SP standard. This is the latest and greatest, offering better protection against low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) and timing chain wear. It’s backward compatible, so it’s safe for older models too. I also keep an eye out for the ILSAC GF-6 mark, which goes hand-in-hand with API SP. This certification is specifically designed for the latest gasoline engines and provides improved fuel economy and turbocharger protection, which is crucial for Subarus with turbocharged engines like the WRX, STI, and Ascent.
Next, I consider the oil’s formulation. Full synthetic is the only way I go. It simply provides superior performance in extreme temperatures, better sludge resistance, and longer oil life compared to conventional or synthetic blends. Given the high operating temperatures and potential for oil consumption in some Subaru engines, the stability of a full synthetic is a non-negotiable for me. I look for oils that use high-quality base stocks and a robust additive package designed to handle the specific stresses of a boxer engine, including potential shear from the horizontal design.
Finally, I think about my specific driving conditions. If I’m doing a lot of short trips, I want an oil with excellent cold-start protection to prevent wear before the oil fully circulates. If I’m towing or driving my Ascent hard in the mountains, I prioritize thermal stability and resistance to oxidation. For my WRX, I might lean towards a brand known for its performance in high-stress, turbocharged applications. Reading forums and reviews from other Subaru owners can be incredibly helpful here, as they provide real-world data on how a particular oil performs in the exact same engine I have.
FAQ
Is 9W30 oil actually recommended for my Subaru?
This is a common point of confusion. Generally, Subaru’s official manuals recommend viscosities like 0W-20, 5W-30, or sometimes 5W-40 for specific models and climates. The term “9W30” is not a standard viscosity grade you’ll find on most store shelves. It’s often used to refer to a specific, high-performance synthetic oil blend that is formulated to behave like a 9-weight oil for easy cold starts but protect like a 30-weight at operating temperature. You should always consult your owner’s manual first. If you’re considering a specialty oil like this, it’s best to do so with an understanding of your driving needs and climate.
What’s the difference between 5W-30 and a specialty 9W30 oil?
The main difference lies in the cold-temperature viscosity (the number before the “W”). A 5W oil is thinner at startup than a 9W oil, theoretically flowing slightly faster to lubricate critical engine parts. The specialty 9W30 formulations are designed to offer a unique balance, potentially providing a thicker oil film at high temperatures while still maintaining decent cold-flow properties. For daily driving, a high-quality 5W-30 full synthetic that meets Subaru’s specifications is perfectly adequate and recommended. The best 9W30 oil options for Subaru models are often sought by enthusiasts looking for that extra margin of protection in modified or heavily stressed engines.
Can using a non-standard oil viscosity void my warranty?
It absolutely can. If you use an oil viscosity not listed in your Subaru warranty and maintenance booklet and you experience an engine failure related to lubrication, the dealership and Subaru of America could deny the warranty claim. They will require proof that the correct oil type and viscosity were used during oil changes. To be safe during the warranty period, I stick strictly to the viscosities and API standards specified by Subaru. Once the warranty expires, you have more flexibility to experiment with specialty oils, but you should still make informed choices.
My Subaru burns oil. Will a different oil help?
Some Subaru engines are known to consume oil over time. While switching to a slightly thicker oil might slow the consumption rate slightly, it is not a fix for a mechanical issue. Oil burning is typically caused by worn piston rings, valve guide seals, or other internal parts. Using a high-mileage oil formulation can be more beneficial than just changing viscosity. High-mileage oils have conditioners to help rejuvenate seals and additives designed to reduce burn-off. If your car is burning a significant amount of oil, it’s best to have it diagnosed by a trusted mechanic.
How often should I change the oil in my Subaru?
The classic answer is “it depends.” Newer Subarus with the 0W-20 recommendation often have oil change intervals of 6,000 miles under normal conditions. However, I personally prefer to err on the side of caution. If I do a lot of stop-and-go driving, short trips where the engine doesn’t fully warm up, or frequent towing, I change my oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. It’s a relatively cheap insurance policy for a complex and expensive engine. Always follow the severe service schedule in your manual if your driving habits align with it.