2011 Subaru Outback & Toyota 5W/30

[lndshark]

Hi Folks,

In about a month we're taking delivery of a 2011 Subaru Outback 2.5i (4-cylinder). I've posted once here asking about continued use of Toyota 5w30 in our 2004 Echo and I've received excellent feedback about that engine oil. I'm curious...since Subaru calls for 5w30 in the Outback, any reason not to use the Toyota oil in that as well? That would certainly simplify what I stock now (I buy the Toyota oil by the case) and I'd just have to run to the Subaru dealer next door for filters.

I'll be posting a used oil analysis for the Echo soon (90k miles all on Toyota 5w30) and I promise to post one for the Subaru when I drain the FF (I'm thinking around 3500 miles?). Who'd a thought that changing oil could be so much fun?

Thank you again for any comments. This BITOG newbie appreciates it!

Jim

 

[Hollow]

Most any 5w30 will be fine in the H4.

 

[dtt004]

Hi.

Use it with confidence. I like Toyota oils...they perform just like any other major brand.

If it makes you feel any better, haha Toyota owns a stake in Fuji Heavy Industries, Subaru's parent company.

 

[Solo2driver]

The '11 Outback I thought uses the new series engine that calls for Subaru Synthetic 0w-20...or that may be the Forester and all nonturbo '12+ cars will use the 0w-20. Let me get back to you on that, I was just at the dealership a few hours ago and had this discussion with the guys there.

 

[lndshark]

Originally Posted By: dtt004
Hi.

Use it with confidence. I like Toyota oils...they perform just like any other major brand.

If it makes you feel any better, haha Toyota owns a stake in Fuji Heavy Industries, Subaru's parent company.


Thanks dtt004. Yup, I know about the Toyota/Subaru relationship. I actually work for one of those companies!

 

[lndshark]

Originally Posted By: Solo2driver
The '11 Outback I thought uses the new series engine that calls for Subaru Synthetic 0w-20...or that may be the Forester and all nonturbo '12+ cars will use the 0w-20. Let me get back to you on that, I was just at the dealership a few hours ago and had this discussion with the guys there.


The '11 Outback is still using the belt-driven 2.5 whereas the '11 Forrester is equipped with the newer, chain-driven version. I know what you're talking about and you are correct - Subaru requires synthetic lube on turbocharged engine models AND the new Forrester.

 

[Hollow]

Originally Posted By: Solo2driver
The '11 Outback I thought uses the new series engine that calls for Subaru Synthetic 0w-20...or that may be the Forester and all nonturbo '12+ cars will use the 0w-20. Let me get back to you on that, I was just at the dealership a few hours ago and had this discussion with the guys there.


It is the new FB engine in the Forester that calls for 0w20. I expect that engine will be in other platforms in the 2012-13 models. All other Subaru engines still call for 5w30.

 

[lndshark]

Thanks everyone. Just picked up another case of the Toyota stuff. My friends think I'm a "homer" for using OE-labeled oil, but if it's good lube, I don't care what they think!