2010–2014 BR (4th generation)
2010–2014 Subaru Outback Oil Type and Capacity
The 2010–2014 Subaru Outback 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.
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Quick answer
2010–2014 Subaru Outback 2.5L 4-cylinder (FB25, port-injected) oil
High confidence| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Viscosity | 0W-20 |
| Allowed alternates | 5W-30 (Some early (2010–2012) FB25 owner's manuals list 5W-30 as an acceptable alternate; 0W-20 synthetic is the primary factory fill from 2011 on) |
| 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) |
Aftermarket capacity guides split between ~4.5 qt and 5.1 qt for this generation; the AMSOIL/parts-catalog figure (5.1 qt / 4.8 L with filter) is the more consistently cited number and matches multiple forum reports.
2010–2014 Subaru Outback 3.6L H6 (EZ36, 5-speed automatic) oil
High confidence| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Viscosity | 5W-30 |
| Oil standard | API SN |
| Capacity (with filter) | 6.9 qt / 6.5 L |
| Synthetic required | No (synthetic recommended) |
| Change interval | 6,000 mi / 6 months (normal); 3,000 mi / 3 months (severe service) |
Conventional 5W-30 is the factory spec; full-synthetic 5W-30 is permitted and widely used. Unlike the 2.5i, the 3.6R in this generation pairs to a conventional 5-speed automatic, not the CVT.
Which Subaru Outback model years does this cover?
These oil specifications apply to every Subaru Outback built from 2010 through 2014 — the BR (4th generation), mid-size wagon/crossover. 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 2010–2014 Subaru Outback
- 2010–2012Generation launch; pre-facelift styling, slightly taller ride height than later years
- 2011Minor changes following the 2010 redesign: XM satellite radio becomes standard and the power liftgate feature expands to more trims
- 2012Premium trim gains a new standard six-speaker stereo along with standard Bluetooth and USB connectivity
- 2013–2014Minor facelift: revised front/rear fascias, updated infotainment options; mechanical specs carry over
2010–2014 Subaru Outback oil: common questions
How many quarts of oil does a 2010–2014 Subaru Outback take?
- It depends on the engine. The 2.5L 4-cylinder (FB25, port-injected) takes 5.1 quarts; The 3.6L H6 (EZ36, 5-speed automatic) takes 6.9 quarts, all figures include a new filter.
What kind of oil does a 2010–2014 Subaru Outback 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 2010–2014 Subaru Outback?
- The manufacturer also permits 5W-30 (Some early (2010–2012) FB25 owner's manuals list 5W-30 as an acceptable alternate; 0W-20 synthetic is the primary factory fill from 2011 on). Anything outside that list is a decision you are making against the factory specification.
How often does a 2010–2014 Subaru Outback 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 2010–2014 Subaru Outback take?
- The OEM filter is Subaru 15208AA160 (spin-on canister). Common equivalents: Fram XG7317 (Ultra), Wix 51516XP, Purolator L14610.
Sources
- Wikipedia, Subaru Outback generations (BR)
- AMSOIL lookup, 2013 Outback 2.5L FB25 oil spec/capacity
- Subaru Outback Forums, real oil capacity of EZ36 in 3.6R
- Subaru Outback Forums, CVT in the 3.6 (5AT vs CVT by year)
- NHTSA, 2013V194000 steering column recall bulletin (WQI-45)
- NHTSA, 18V626 electronic parking brake actuator recall (WTV-81)
- Class Law Group, Subaru oil consumption class action settlement summary
- Subaru Outback Forums, 2011 Premium tire size (225/60R17)
- Conley Subaru, Outback lug nut torque by model year
- samarins.com, 2010–2014 Subaru Outback common problems