5 Best Engine Oil for Subaru Forester

Looking for the best engine oil for your Subaru Forester can be an adventure in itself. With so many options to choose from, it’s easy to get lost in a sea of oil jargon and technical terms.

The 5 best engine oil for the Subaru Forester are as follows:

• Mobil 1 Extended Performance 5W-30
• Castrol EDGE 5W-30
• Royal Purple HMX High Mileage Synthetic Motor Oil 5W-30
• Valvoline High Mileage Synthetic Blend 5W-30
• Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic Motor Oil 5W-30

In this guide, we’re going to take a look at each of these engine oil brands, and I’ll include a helpful buying guide to assist you in choosing the best type of engine oil for your Subaru Forester.

Reviews of Popular Engine Oils for Subaru Forester

If you’re on the hunt for the best engine oil for your Subaru Forester, look no further! In this review, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most popular options on the market.

Mobil 1 Extended Performance 5W-30 is a fully synthetic motor oil designed to provide long-lasting engine protection and performance. This motor oil is engineered to last up to 20,000 miles or one year, whichever comes first, before requiring an oil change.

Key Features:

• Fully synthetic formula with advanced additives for optimal engine protection
• Long-lasting performance, up to 20,000 miles or one year between oil changes
• Helps to reduce engine wear and extend engine life
• Provides excellent low-temperature performance for easy cold weather starts
• Maintains viscosity and oil pressure even under extreme conditions
• Compatible with gasoline and diesel engines

Pros:

• Long-lasting performance means fewer oil changes and less maintenance
• Superior engine protection and extended engine life
• Excellent low-temperature performance for easier cold weather starts
• Maintains viscosity and oil pressure even under extreme conditions
• Compatible with both gasoline and diesel engines

Cons:

• Some car manufacturers may not recommend extended oil change intervals, which could void warranties

Castrol EDGE 5W-30 is a fully synthetic engine oil designed to provide superior engine performance and protection in modern, high-performance engines. It is formulated with advanced fluid technology that reduces metal-to-metal contact across a range of engine speeds and temperatures, offering exceptional wear protection.

Key Features:

• Fully synthetic formula
• Advanced fluid technology for reduced metal-to-metal contact
• Meets industry standards for performance and protection

Pros:

• Provides exceptional wear protection for high-performance engines
• Reduces engine deposits and maintains engine cleanliness
• Offers excellent performance in extreme temperatures and under heavy loads
• Meets industry standards for performance and protection
• Provides improved fuel economy

Cons:

• Not suitable for older engines or vehicles with high mileage

Royal Purple HMX High Mileage Synthetic Motor Oil 5W-30 is a premium synthetic engine oil specifically designed for high-mileage vehicles. Its advanced formula is engineered to rejuvenate and extend the life of engines with over 75,000 miles on the odometer while also providing exceptional protection and performance.

Key Features:

• Specifically formulated for high-mileage vehicles
• Advanced synthetic formula
• Reduces engine wear and extends engine life
• Offers improved fuel economy
• Maintains engine cleanliness

Pros:

• Rejuvenates and extends the life of high mileage engines
• Reduces engine wear and protects against corrosion
• Improves engine performance and fuel economy
• Keeps engines clean by preventing deposits and sludge buildup
• Provides excellent protection in extreme temperatures

Cons:

• Not suitable for engines with low mileage or new engines

Valvoline High Mileage Synthetic Blend 5W-30 is a premium engine oil designed for high mileage vehicles. Its advanced formula is a blend of synthetic and conventional base oils, combined with a range of additives that help to extend engine life, reduce engine wear and tear, and maintain engine cleanliness.

Key Features:

• Specifically formulated for high mileage vehicles
• Synthetic blend formula
• Contains seal conditioners to prevent leaks
• Reduces engine wear and extends engine life
• Maintains engine cleanliness

Pros:

• Extends engine life and protects against wear and tear
• Prevents leaks with seal conditioners
• Maintains engine cleanliness by preventing deposits and sludge buildup
• Offers excellent protection in extreme temperatures
• Provides improved fuel economy

Cons:

• May not be suitable for extremely high mileage engines or severe driving conditions
• Not suitable for use in diesel engines

Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic Motor Oil 5W-30 is a premium fully synthetic engine oil designed to provide exceptional engine protection and performance. Its advanced formula is engineered to keep engines running smoothly, protect against wear and tear, and maximize fuel economy.

Key Features:

• Fully synthetic formula
• Provides excellent engine protection
• Reduces engine deposits and maintains engine cleanliness
• Offers improved fuel economy
• Provides excellent performance in extreme temperatures

Pros:

• Offers superior engine protection against wear and tear
• Reduces engine deposits and maintains engine cleanliness for optimal engine performance
• Provides excellent fuel economy by reducing friction
• Performs well in extreme temperatures and under heavy loads
• Meets industry standards for performance and protection

Cons:

• Not suitable for engines with high mileage or severe driving conditions

Factors to Consider When Choosing Engine Oil

When selecting the right engine oil for your vehicle, there are various factors to consider. In this section, we’ll discuss the essential aspects to help you make an informed decision about the best engine oil for your Subaru Forester.

1. Viscosity rating

The viscosity rating of engine oil measures its resistance to flow and indicates how well it will perform in different temperatures. Choosing the correct viscosity is crucial for optimal engine performance and protection.

2. Synthetic vs. conventional oil

Synthetic and conventional oils differ in their base stocks, with synthetic oils providing enhanced protection, performance, and longevity. However, conventional oils may be more cost-effective, making it important to weigh the benefits of each type.

3. Additive package

Engine oil additives serve various functions, such as reducing friction, preventing rust, and neutralizing acids. Understanding the additive package in an engine oil can help you choose one that offers the right balance of performance and protection for your specific needs.

4. Oil change interval

The recommended oil change interval varies depending on the type of oil used, driving conditions, and your vehicle’s make and model. It’s essential to follow the suggested oil change interval to maintain your engine’s health and performance.

5. Price

Engine oil prices can vary significantly based on factors such as the oil type, brand, and additives. While it’s essential not to sacrifice quality for cost, comparing prices can help you find the best value for your money.

6. Manufacturer’s recommendation

Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual (2022 Subaru Forester, PDF) or consult the manufacturer for the recommended type of engine oil. Adhering to these recommendations ensures your engine receives optimal protection and performs efficiently.

What Is the Recommended Oil Change Interval for Subaru Forester?

The recommended oil change interval for a Subaru Forester varies depending on the type of oil used. For conventional oil, it is recommended to change the oil every 3,000-5,000 miles. If using Mobil 1 Extended Performance 5W-30, a synthetic oil, the interval may be longer, possibly around 7,500-10,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and the manufacturer’s recommendations.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between synthetic and conventional oil?

Synthetic oil is chemically engineered, with more uniform and pure molecules than conventional oil, which is derived from crude oil. Synthetic oil generally provides better high and low-temperature performance, superior engine wear protection, and longer-lasting resistance to heat and stress compared to conventional oil.

2. How can I tell if my engine oil needs to be changed?

• You can tell if your engine oil needs changing by checking for:
• Low or no oil on the dipstick
• Dark brown or black oil color
• Irregular texture
• Knocking or ticking sounds from the engine
• Gritty or coarse oil consistency
• Exceeding 3,000 miles or 3 months since the last oil change

3. What happens if I use the wrong engine oil in my Subaru Forester?

Using the wrong engine oil in your Subaru Forester can cause various issues.

If you use synthetic oil in an older or high-mileage car instead of conventional motor oil, you may experience oil leaks due to synthetic oil’s different flow characteristics. Additionally, the wrong oil viscosity can result in poor lubrication of engine components, causing metal parts such as valves and valve lifters to hit each other, creating noise.

For 2011 or newer Foresters and other specified Subaru models, the manufacturer recommends using synthetic oil. It’s essential to use the appropriate oil to ensure optimal performance and avoid potential engine damage.

4. Can I mix synthetic and conventional oil?

Yes, you can mix synthetic and conventional oil without causing harm to your engine. However, mixing the two may reduce the superior performance and benefits of synthetic oil. It’s generally recommended to stick to one type of oil for optimal engine protection and performance.

5. What type of oil should I use for a turbocharged Subaru Forester?

For a turbocharged Subaru Forester, it is recommended to use synthetic motor oil 5W-30, such as the Mobil 1 Extended Performance 5W-30. This oil type is specifically designed for turbocharged Foresters to provide optimal engine performance and protection. Always check your owner’s manual for the most accurate and up-to-date information on oil requirements for your specific vehicle.