2014–2018 SJ (4th generation)
2014–2018 Subaru Forester Oil Type and Capacity
The 2014–2018 Subaru Forester takes 0W-20 engine oil, 5.1 quarts with a filter change by engine. OEM filter Subaru 15208AA160 (spin-on canister). Verified against factory documentation, with change intervals and aftermarket filter equivalents.
Last verified
Quick answer
2014–2018 Subaru Forester 2.5L 4-cylinder (FB25, port-injected) oil
High confidence| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Viscosity | 0W-20 |
| Oil standard | API SN / ILSAC GF-5 |
| Capacity (with filter) | 5.1 qt / 4.8 L |
| Synthetic required | Yes |
| OEM filter | Subaru 15208AA160 (spin-on canister) |
| Aftermarket filters | Fram XG7317 (Ultra), Wix 51516XP, Purolator L14610 |
| Change interval | 6,000 mi / 6 months (normal); 3,000 mi / 3 months (severe service) |
Owner-reported dipstick fills for this generation's FB25 consistently land at 5.1 qt with filter.
2014–2018 Subaru Forester 2.0L Turbo 4-cylinder (FA20DIT, direct-injected) oil
High confidence| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Viscosity | 5W-30 |
| Oil standard | API SN |
| Capacity (with filter) | 5.4 qt / 5.1 L |
| Synthetic required | Yes |
| Change interval | 6,000 mi / 6 months (normal); 3,000 mi / 3 months (severe service) |
The 2.0XT moved to the CVT in this generation, unlike the SH-generation 2.5XT's conventional automatic. Shares the FA20 family used in the WRX (there it's badged FA20F); enthusiast forums commonly call the Forester application FA20DIT.
Which Subaru Forester model years does this cover?
These oil specifications apply to every Subaru Forester built from 2014 through 2018 — the SJ (4th generation), compact crossover suv. Nothing in this specification changes between those model years. Pick your year for the engines it offered, what changed that year, and the problems recorded against it.
What changed during the 2014–2018 Subaru Forester
- 2014Full redesign: all-new SGP-adjacent platform, FA20DIT turbo replaces the EJ25 turbo and moves to the CVT, first EyeSight availability on Forester
- 2015Standard rearview camera added across all trims; 18-in wheels become available on the 2.5i
- 2016New touchscreen-based infotainment interface across the lineup, with a standard 6.2-in touchscreen on the base 2.5i trim
- 2017Facelift: revised front/rear styling, updated infotainment, LED headlight option on Touring
- 2018Final year of this generation
2014–2018 Subaru Forester oil: common questions
How many quarts of oil does a 2014–2018 Subaru Forester take?
- It depends on the engine. The 2.5L 4-cylinder (FB25, port-injected) takes 5.1 quarts; The 2.0L Turbo 4-cylinder (FA20DIT, direct-injected) takes 5.4 quarts, all figures include a new filter.
What kind of oil does a 2014–2018 Subaru Forester take?
- 0W-20 meeting API SN / ILSAC GF-5, full synthetic (required, not merely recommended). Other engines in this vehicle may differ; see the table above.
Can you use a different viscosity in a 2014–2018 Subaru Forester?
- The factory specification is 0W-20 and no alternate grade is listed for this engine. Modern variable-valve-timing hardware is sized around the specified viscosity, so substituting a thicker oil is not a free choice.
How often does a 2014–2018 Subaru Forester need an oil change?
- 6,000 mi / 6 months (normal); 3,000 mi / 3 months (severe service). Short trips, towing, extended idling, and dusty or very cold conditions all put the vehicle on the severe-service side of that interval.
What oil filter does a 2014–2018 Subaru Forester take?
- The OEM filter is Subaru 15208AA160 (spin-on canister). Common equivalents: Fram XG7317 (Ultra), Wix 51516XP, Purolator L14610.
Sources
- Wikipedia, Subaru Forester generations (SJ)
- subaruforester.org, 2017 Forester engine oil capacity thread (5.1 qt, FB25)
- AMSOIL lookup, 2016 Forester 2.0L FA20F Turbo oil spec/capacity
- MotorWeek, 2014 Subaru Forester review (2.0XT: 250 hp / 258 lb-ft, ~23/28 mpg)
- subaruforester.org, 2014 Forester 2.0XT HP and torque discussion
- turbochargersdirect.com, Subaru banjo bolt oil feed line/cylinder head connection explainer
- NHTSA, Recall 19V701000 product campaign bulletin (WUM-98, passenger ODS sensor)
- Consumer Reports, Subaru Forester SUVs recalled for airbag deactivation risk
- classaction.org, Subaru windshield settlement given preliminary approval
- tirecalculatorhub.com, Subaru Forester OEM tire size guide by year
- wiperhaus.com, Subaru Forester wiper blade size guide